If you’re dreaming of seeing the Gorges du Verdon, one of France’s most spectacular natural sights, this tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy the spectacular views without the stress of driving or navigating tricky roads themselves.
What I like most about this tour is the personalized touch—with a guide like Anne, you’re not just looking at the scenery, you’re learning about it. Plus, the small group size makes for an intimate experience, perfect for soaking in the landscape and having your questions answered. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s a shorter, half-day trip, which might not satisfy everyone’s desire to explore every nook and cranny of this vast canyon.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate a guided experience and want to stay flexible with timing, choosing morning or afternoon options. It’s especially good if you prefer not to rent a car or drive yourself, and you want to enjoy the beauty of the Verdon Gorge comfortably and safely.
Key Points
- Convenient pickup in Moustiers Sainte Marie saves you the hassle of organizing transport.
- Expert local guide, Anne, enhances the experience with engaging commentary and local insights.
- Breathtaking viewpoints along Lake Sainte Croix and Route des Crêtes offer photo opportunities and awe-inspiring scenery.
- Small group setting (up to 8 people) ensures a more relaxed and personalized experience.
- Duration of 3.5 hours makes it a manageable half-day trip, ideal for those with tight schedules.
- Cost of $129 per person offers a good balance of value considering the included transportation, guide, and scenic stops.
Discovering the Gorges du Verdon: What This Tour Offers
Starting from the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, this tour makes it easy to enjoy the Verdon without the complications of self-driving. The focus is on scenery and storytelling, which makes it particularly appealing if you’re interested in both the visual and the narrative of this stunning region.
The journey begins with a pickup in Moustiers, well known for its pottery and hilltop charm. As you depart, the vehicle—a cozy 9-seater minibus—screens you from the driving responsibilities while offering comfort and room to relax. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with friends or a small family who prefer a more intimate experience.
Planning more time in Moustiers Sainte Marie? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Scenic Stops and Viewpoints
The route takes you toward the Verdon Gorge, with several stops planned along the way. These are the highlights of the trip for many: magnificent views of the cliffs and lake. The tour includes stops at the most remarkable viewpoints, where you’ll get plenty of chances to take photos and truly appreciate the scale of this natural wonder.
One of the key stops is at Lake Sainte Croix, where the shimmering waters provide a stunning foreground to the panoramic vistas. From there, the route follows the Route des Crêtes, a narrow, scenic road that runs along the edge of the canyon, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon du Verdon. These viewpoints are renowned for their breathtaking beauty and are often highlighted by travelers who appreciate the combination of nature and geology.
What the Guide Brings to the Table
Anne, the guide, is described as passionate, knowledgeable, and friendly. She shares the history of Lake Sainte Croix and Moustiers Sainte Marie, enriching your experience beyond just sightseeing. Her commentary makes the stops more meaningful, turning what could be a mere photo op into a learning moment that adds depth to your understanding of the region.
One reviewer, Valerie, praised Anne for her interesting, varied, and passionate explanations, along with her kindness and humor. This indicates that the guide’s personality can significantly enhance the experience, especially if you enjoy engaging storytelling.
The Practical Side: Logistics and Value
The 3.5-hour duration keeps the trip relaxed and not overly demanding. The tour operates in both morning and afternoon slots, providing flexibility to fit into your schedule. The price of $129 per person might seem steep for just a few hours, but when you consider transportation, guiding, and multiple viewpoints, it’s quite reasonable for an organized, guided experience in a popular destination.
The tour is small group, capped at 8 people, fostering a more personalized atmosphere. This is great if you prefer meaningful conversations and a less crowded feel. It also means plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get tailored insights.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat’s Not Included
The only notable omission is bottled water, which is available for purchase on board. Given the warm climate and the physical demands of sightseeing, bringing your own water might be a good idea, especially if you’re prone to dehydration.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who enjoys guided trips with a focus on scenery and storytelling, this is a solid choice. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see the Gorges du Verdon without the hassle of navigating roads or renting a vehicle. The small group setting is perfect for those who value a more personal experience.
However, since children under 10 are not recommended, and the tour lasts just a few hours, it’s less ideal for very young kids or travelers looking for a full-day adventure. Also, if you’re a seasoned hiker or canyon explorer, this might feel a bit limited in scope.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience the majestic Gorges du Verdon from a convenient starting point. With its expert guide, beautiful viewpoints, and small group setting, it’s a great option for travelers who want a stress-free, scenic outing with plenty of opportunities to absorb the landscape.
It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a guided narrative and want to avoid the complications of self-driving. The price reflects the inclusion of transportation, guide, and stops at some of the most photogenic viewpoints in the area.
If you’re after a half-day escape into one of France’s most stunning natural spots and value engaging storytelling and comfort, this tour fits the bill nicely. Just remember to bring water, dress appropriately for the weather, and prepare to be wowed by the gorgeous vistas with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
The Gorges du Verdon, departing from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, tour and transportation
FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your guide Anne will pick you up in Moustiers Sainte Marie and handle the transportation on a 9-seater minibus.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.
What language is the tour guide in?
The tour is conducted in French, so some content may be in its original language. If you need a guide in another language, it’s worth checking with the provider.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the guided tour, transportation from Moustiers Sainte Marie, and the commentary from Anne. Bottled water is not included but available for purchase.
Are children allowed?
This tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old, likely due to the vehicle size and the nature of the stops.
Can I join in the afternoon or morning?
Yes, the tour is available in both morning and afternoon slots, providing some flexibility.
Will I see the cliffs and viewpoints?
Absolutely. The tour emphasizes stops at the most remarkable viewpoints along Lake Sainte Croix and Route des Crêtes.
Is it suitable for those with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves multiple stops with scenic viewpoints, those with mobility concerns should check with the provider, but the tour is designed for a small group with comfortable access.
What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a camera—these viewpoints are perfect for photos!
If you’re after a scenic, well-guided glimpse of the Gorges du Verdon with minimal hassle, this tour is worth considering. It combines the beauty of the landscape with the ease of a guided experience, making it especially appealing for those who want to relax and enjoy the views without the stress of driving or navigating unfamiliar roads.
You can check availability for your dates here:
