Grand Canyon of France and Sainte-Croix Lake Tour from Cannes
A full day journey through Provence's most dramatic landscapes, from gorge country to the turquoise waters of the Verdon.
The Gorges du Verdon full day tour from Cannes takes you deep into the heart of Provence, tracing the clifftops of France's largest canyon before arriving at the shimmering shores of Lac de Sainte-Croix. This route combines geological wonder with village heritage in a single nine-hour itinerary.
The drive from Cannes already rewards attention, with panoramic views opening up along the approach to the Verdon plateau. Your driver can pause at key viewpoints so you have time to photograph the layered limestone ridges and the vivid turquoise river threading through the gorge below.
Two historic villages anchor the day's route. Castellane, classified as a city of character, sits at the entrance to the gorges along the Route Napoleon. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, is built in the shape of an amphitheater against a rock face, and remains internationally known for its distinctive faience pottery tradition.
The tour concludes at Lac de Sainte-Croix, the third-largest lake in France. In summer, the lake is ideal for swimming or taking out a canoe, pedal boat, or electric boat. Fields of lavender frame the shoreline from late June through mid-July, adding another layer of color to an already vivid landscape.
Tour Highlights
Travel through the Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in France, with stops at panoramic viewpoints along the rim.
Visit Lac de Sainte-Croix, the third-largest lake in France, with the option to swim or rent a small watercraft in summer.
Explore Castellane, a fortified village classified as a city of character, positioned at the gateway to the Verdon gorges.
Discover Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of the most beautiful villages in France, celebrated for its faience ceramics and dramatic setting.
Pass through lavender country in season, with fields in bloom visible from Moustiers and around the lake from late June to mid-July.
Request photo stops along the route so you can capture the canyon, village architecture, and lake scenery at your own pace.
Follow part of the historic Route Napoleon through the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence on the way between key stops.
Itinerary
The tour begins in Cannes, heading north through the Provence backcountry toward the Verdon plateau. Panoramic views appear along the approach, and the driver can stop at requested viewpoints.
The route follows the rim of France's largest canyon, offering striking views of the turquoise Verdon river cutting through limestone cliffs. This is the scenic centerpiece of the day.
Stop in Castellane, a village classified as a city of character and set partly within 14th-century ramparts. Located along the Route Napoleon, it serves as the main gateway to the Gorges du Verdon.
Explore this village built amphitheater-style against a cliff at the western entrance to the gorges. Moustiers is internationally recognized for its faience pottery tradition and offers views over the surrounding mountains and lake.
Arrive at the third-largest lake in France, surrounded by Provencal scenery and, in season, lavender fields. Swimming and watercraft rentals are available in summer.
The return journey brings the group back to Cannes, completing a full-day circuit through the most celebrated natural and cultural sites of the Verdon region.
What Is Included
Included
- Private vehicle with driver for the full day
- Guided tour of Castellane village
- Guided tour of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
- Panoramic stops along the Gorges du Verdon
- Visit to Lac de Sainte-Croix
Not Included
- Meals and drinks
- Watercraft or boat rentals at the lake
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the driver or guide
Important Information
Book Your Day in the Verdon
Reserve your place on this full-day tour from Cannes and spend a day among the most striking natural and cultural landscapes in Provence.
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