Relaxing and active holidays, even during a drought in the Verdon

When trying to book your holiday at a Verdon campsite for 2022, you probably came across articles discussing the water levels in the Gorges du Verdon and at Lake Sainte-Croix. Indeed, while many visitors were planning to enjoy the sunshine and take part in Verdon water activities, the region’s lakes experienced an extremely low water level, forcing some watersports professionals to close or restrict certain activities.

But what is the real situation? We explain everything.

Drought and falling water levels in the Verdon lakes

For months, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region had to deal with a major drought episode, which even caused the level of Lake Sainte-Croix to drop by 4 metres (Var), due to a lack of rain and snow in the Southern Alps the previous winter!

As a result, the boating area of France’s third-largest lake turned into a kind of “peninsula”, forcing local watersports centres to adapt. Even though some activities are no longer possible, there is still plenty to do, as we will see further on.

Speculation about water levels has been widespread, so the Sainte-Croix tourist office has been keen to reassure visitors to the Verdon. Despite the 4-metre drop, “there is still water in Lake Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, and all watersports activities […] are possible,” the tourist office confirms.

So, while caution and discipline are essential during outings on the water, professionals remain optimistic and continue adapting so that holidaymakers can fully enjoy the region.

The cause: an imbalance in the regulation of the Sainte-Croix dam

With a historically low water level for the season, the local development authority, in partnership with EDF, has been closely monitoring the dam’s outflow.

In fact, while the inflow into the dam is 50% lower than the outflow, EDF is prioritising access to drinking water, crop irrigation, and the protection of aquatic life by limiting electricity production during this drought period. Water volumes in the Verdon lakes are therefore low due to a lack of rainfall and water-use restrictions set by EDF.

It’s hot - time to get in the water! Discover the water activities still available in the Verdon

Covering more than 2,200 hectares, the lake in Europe’s largest canyon has everything it takes to remain sustainable and to offer visitors a privileged playground for watersports and swimming. So YES, there is enough water to enjoy many outdoor activities in the Gorges du Verdon, despite what some people may say…

Whether you prefer water-based or land activities, you can feel reassured about your holiday in the region, thanks to the best things to do right now in the Gorges du Verdon:

In the water :
- Combine sport, sunbathing and fun on a pedal boat or a stand-up paddleboard.
- If you love thrills, try hydrospeed and let yourself glide through the rapids and surf the waves on a 4 km descent.
- Explore the heart of the Gorges du Verdon with the most playful kind of hike: river trekking.
- The unmissable canyoning in the Gorges du Verdon is, of course, an experience you shouldn’t miss.
On land :
- Set off with your family to discover the area through incredible trails showcasing the flora and fauna of the Gorges du Verdon.
- Climb the Verdon’s most spectacular, beautiful and historic (and many more superlatives) cliff on a climbing outing.
In the air :
- Tree-top adventure lovers can enjoy the many courses above the turquoise waters of the lakes.
- Fly over the lakes, lavender fields and green landscapes on a paraglider – guaranteed feelings of freedom and escape!
- Thrill-seekers can choose a bungee jump and take in a truly breathtaking view.

So don’t worry about your stay – come and relax under the sunshine.

See you soon in the Verdon!

Mis à jour le 13 January 2026

What to do in the Verdon when it rains Ecotourism in the Verdon