How to explore the Verdon Gorge by kayak
No visit to the Verdon Gorge is complete without exploring its waters, with their mesmerising shades of blue and green.
One of the region’s most popular activities, kayaking in the Verdon Gorge is a unique way to experience its spectacular scenery.
With its dizzying cliffs, wild coves, hidden caves and secluded beaches, every outing promises new discoveries.
The River Verdon stretches for nearly 80 kilometres between the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and the Var.
Several sections are open to recreational boating, particularly between Castellane and Esparron-de-Verdon.
Depending on your experience and what you’re looking for, you can choose between a leisurely family outing and a more challenging adventure through the heart of the canyon.
Most routes take you along calm waters, making kayaking accessible even to beginners.
Probably one of the most iconic views of the Verdon Gorge.
Located at the entrance to the Verdon Gorge, near the Galetas Bridge and Lac de Sainte-Croix, the route follows the Verdon upstream for around 2 kilometres, surrounded by spectacular cliffs.
This is a relatively easy paddle, with exceptional views along the way.
Along the way, admire the rock faces as they gradually close in around you, while small waterfalls offer welcome coolness in summer.
Particularly busy during the high season, this area is especially popular with families and first-time visitors to the gorges.
Less well known but every bit as spectacular, the Three Lakes Gorges offer a more secluded experience.
Located downstream of Lac de Sainte-Croix, these canyons can only be reached by water.
As you paddle along, you will discover caves, moss-covered rock faces and small waterfalls that create an almost tropical atmosphere.
Set aside around two to three hours to make the most of the experience.
Stretching from Esparron-de-Verdon to Quinson, the Lower Gorges of the Verdon take you into a wilder, more unspoilt landscape.
Suitable for children and beginners, this relaxed kayaking trip takes you through stunningly beautiful natural surroundings.
The calm waters are ideal for a leisurely paddle, a refreshing swim and taking in the scenery.
Set aside half a day or a full day to explore the area at your own pace.
Experienced kayakers can also take on certain sections of the Grand Canyon du Verdon.
These more technical routes require excellent kayaking skills and a good level of fitness.
They offer a different way to experience one of Europe’s largest canyons, taking you right up close to the towering rock faces for which the Verdon is famous.
Before or after your day on the water, enjoy a delicious meal at La Table du Calalou in Moissac-Bellevue.
Our cuisine celebrates the flavours of Provence and the work of local producers from the Verdon Gorge, with refined dishes that blend tradition and creativity.
After your kayaking trip, unwind in our spa and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation!
One of the region’s most popular activities, kayaking in the Verdon Gorge is a unique way to experience its spectacular scenery.
With its dizzying cliffs, wild coves, hidden caves and secluded beaches, every outing promises new discoveries.
Where to go kayaking in the Verdon Gorge?
The River Verdon stretches for nearly 80 kilometres between the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and the Var.
Several sections are open to recreational boating, particularly between Castellane and Esparron-de-Verdon.
Depending on your experience and what you’re looking for, you can choose between a leisurely family outing and a more challenging adventure through the heart of the canyon.
Most routes take you along calm waters, making kayaking accessible even to beginners.
The Galetas Bridge: an iconic Verdon landmark
Probably one of the most iconic views of the Verdon Gorge.
Located at the entrance to the Verdon Gorge, near the Galetas Bridge and Lac de Sainte-Croix, the route follows the Verdon upstream for around 2 kilometres, surrounded by spectacular cliffs.
This is a relatively easy paddle, with exceptional views along the way.
Along the way, admire the rock faces as they gradually close in around you, while small waterfalls offer welcome coolness in summer.
Particularly busy during the high season, this area is especially popular with families and first-time visitors to the gorges.
Explore the quieter Three Lakes Gorges
Less well known but every bit as spectacular, the Three Lakes Gorges offer a more secluded experience.
Located downstream of Lac de Sainte-Croix, these canyons can only be reached by water.
As you paddle along, you will discover caves, moss-covered rock faces and small waterfalls that create an almost tropical atmosphere.
Set aside around two to three hours to make the most of the experience.
The Lower Gorges of the Verdon: an ideal family day out
Stretching from Esparron-de-Verdon to Quinson, the Lower Gorges of the Verdon take you into a wilder, more unspoilt landscape.
Suitable for children and beginners, this relaxed kayaking trip takes you through stunningly beautiful natural surroundings.
The calm waters are ideal for a leisurely paddle, a refreshing swim and taking in the scenery.
Set aside half a day or a full day to explore the area at your own pace.
For the more adventurous paddlers
Experienced kayakers can also take on certain sections of the Grand Canyon du Verdon.
These more technical routes require excellent kayaking skills and a good level of fitness.
They offer a different way to experience one of Europe’s largest canyons, taking you right up close to the towering rock faces for which the Verdon is famous.
Before or after your day on the water, enjoy a delicious meal at La Table du Calalou in Moissac-Bellevue.
Our cuisine celebrates the flavours of Provence and the work of local producers from the Verdon Gorge, with refined dishes that blend tradition and creativity.
After your kayaking trip, unwind in our spa and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation!
