A Week to Explore the Verdon

Want to spend a week surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, hilltop villages, and turquoise waters? The Verdon is an exceptional playground for those who love to be active, explore, push their limits, or simply enjoy a unique natural setting. On the agenda: scenic drives along the edge of sheer drops, swimming in hidden coves, hikes deep in the forest, water activities in legendary gorges, and gourmet stops in charming Provençal villages.

This week, you can take things at your own pace, enjoying moments of adventure, unique discoveries, and relaxing breaks by the water. All from a 4-star campground near the Gorges du Verdon, ideally located for exploring the entire region.

Day	Primary Business Activity	Strengths	Recommended time
Day 1	Tour of the Verdon Gorges	Panoramic Views, Route des Crêtes, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie	Full day
Day 2	Boat Tour	Stunning scenery, access to the gorges	Morning
Day 2 (afternoon)	Relaxation at the campground	Heated pool, peaceful atmosphere	Afternoon
Day 3	Hiking + Villages	Quinson, Tourtour, Villecroze, Sillans	Day
Day 4	Lake Sainte-Croix	Bauduen, secluded coves, Sulagran	Day
Day 5	Canyoning / Water Hiking	Professional coaching, family programs	½ or a full day
Day 6	Hiking	Blanc-Martel, Col d’Illoire, walking tour	Morning or Day
Day 7	Memories & Relaxation	Local Products, Aups Market	Morning

Day 1: Driving through the Verdon Gorge

Departure from Aiguines and the left bank

To kick off your week in the Verdon, start with a complete drive through the Gorges. Ideally, leave the campground no later than 9 a.m. to make the most of the day’s various stops. The route begins in Aiguines, following the left bank, which is dotted with spectacular viewpoints overlooking the rocky cliffs and the meandering canyon.

Continue along the right bank and follow the Route des Crêtes

The rest of the route follows the right bank until it reaches the Route des Crêtes, one of the most beautiful sections of the trail. Here, you’ll have the chance to watch vultures soaring above the gorges, take in the vastness of the landscape, and stop at several overlooks. Among them, the Point Sublime remains a must-see stop to fully appreciate the scale of the site.

A Stop in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

After taking in these panoramic views, head to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a historic village renowned for its Provençal charm. It’s the perfect place to have lunch, stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the earthenware workshops, or climb up to the Chapelle de Beauvoir to enjoy a unique view of the medieval village.

End of the Day on Lake Sainte-Croix

To wrap up the day, take the road that runs along Lake Sainte-Croix, passes through Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, and—when in season—winds through the region’s characteristic fields of blooming lavender.

Day 2: Explore the Gorges from the water and relax at the campground

Morning spent on a boat, in a canoe, or on a paddleboard

After getting that first glimpse from the road, head out to explore the gorges from the water.
It takes about 25 minutes from the campground to reach the Pont de Galetas, where rentals begin. Once there, you have several options: electric boat, canoe, pedal boat, or stand-up paddleboard.

Even though the distance is only 3 km, the scenery is breathtaking, with steep cliffs, turquoise water, and a feeling of total immersion. During peak season, plan to leave early in the morning, as reservations aren’t accepted and the light is better for photos. Pets are allowed on the electric boats, making this a great activity for families.

Back at the campground: relaxation and a heated pool

In the afternoon, treat yourself to some downtime by the heated pool, which is equipped with lounge chairs and a pleasant area to relax. Before 4 p.m., the area is often very quiet, as most vacationers are still out sightseeing.

Social Evening: Pétanque Tournament

In the evenings, the campground hosts a pétanque tournament on Tuesdays, open to everyone.
Balls are provided, and teams are formed by drawing lots, in a spirit of fellowship and socializing, without pressure or competition.

Day 3: Hike Through the Basses Gorges and the Villages of the Haut-Var

Family Hike in Quinson

If you enjoy walking, head to Quinson for a 9-kilometer hike suitable for the whole family, along the Lower Verdon Gorges.
The trail offers unique views, winds through a majestic forest, and—for the more adventurous—allows you to climb up to the Sainte-Maxime Chapel.

Hilltop villages and cave dwellings

You can spend the afternoon visiting the villages around Aups:

Tourtour, a hilltop village with panoramic views
Villecroze, with its cave dwellings and its remarkable garden
Sillans-la-Cascade, accessible via a 20-minute walk along the Bresque River
Cotignac, a listed troglodytic village, ranked as the fourth favorite village among the French in 2018

These stops let you enjoy a blend of historical sites, scenic views, and leisurely strolls, all just a few minutes from the campground.

Day 4: Enjoy Lake Sainte-Croix

Bauduen: Secluded Coves and Swimming

For a day by the water, head to Bauduen, about 15 minutes from the campground.
As you walk along the lake, you can find a secluded cove—perfect for a swim or a picnic by the water. Pets are allowed, so you can easily bring them along for the fun.

Sulagran Nature Reserve

Another option: the Sulagran site, on the road to Baudinard.
After parking your car, a 100-meter walk downhill leads to a quiet, natural, and secluded spot.

The Wide Beaches of Galetas

For those who prefer open spaces, the Galetas beach area offers plenty of room to settle in and enjoy the view, while maintaining a sense of spaciousness.

Day 5: Canyoning or water hiking

Meet Explore Aventure at the campground

Every Sunday at noon, the campground hosts a welcome reception where you can meet Frédéric from Explore Aventure and sign up for a canyoning or water hiking activity.

Family-Friendly Activities

Canyoning for ages 8 and up, half-day or full-day tours
Water hike for ages 6 and up, suitable for young children

The meeting points vary between Comps-sur-Artuby, La Palud-sur-Verdon, and Trigance, depending on the route. These experiences allow you to explore the gorges from the water in a guided, safe, and friendly setting.

A more pleasant experience

For a less strenuous experience, water hiking can be enjoyed on iconic trails, such as the Samson Corridor.

Day 6: Hiking or a walk from the campground

Long-Distance Hiking Trails

Experienced hikers can head out on some of the area’s well-known trails:

Grand Margès
Plein Voir Pass
Illoire Pass
The Blanc-Martel Trail, which requires a shuttle or two vehicles

These hikes offer spectacular views, but require a good level of physical fitness.

A leisurely walk starting from the campground

For a more accessible outing, join the walking tour organized on Friday mornings, departing from L’Oasis du Verdon. The route leads to the Croix des Pins, with views of Aups and the valley, before returning for cold drinks and Provençal specialties.

Day 7: Final Moments at Camping Oasis Verdon and Memories

Regional products and local crafts

Before you leave, take a moment to enjoy the peace and quiet of the campground or stop by to pick up a few souvenirs.
Right nearby, the Gervasoni oil mill and the shops in Aups offer regional products and handmade crafts.

Provençal Market and Souvenirs at the Campground

You can also stroll through the Aups market, held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, or pick up Molly Club magnets, posters, and mugs— which are a big hit with the kids—at the campground’s reception desk.

Continue your tour of the Verdon Gorges as you explore its landscapes, culture, and villages.

Family Activities in the Verdon Grand Canyon