The Gorges du Verdon and Ste Croix Lake Full-Day Tour from Nice promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Provence. Explore the stunning "Grand Canyon of France," discover the medieval village of Castellane, and relax at the picturesque Ste Croix Lake. With hotel pickup and multilingual options, this nine-hour excursion offers a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of the region. Whether you’re seeking a day of outdoor exploration or a glimpse into Provence’s rich history, this tour has something to captivate every traveler.
Key Points
- This full-day tour takes visitors to explore the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon, known as the "Grand Canyon of France," and the serene Ste Croix Lake.
- The tour includes pickup from the hotel, is available in multiple languages, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights of the tour include admiring the stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise waters of Gorges du Verdon, and engaging in various water activities at Ste Croix Lake.
- Visitors can discover the medieval charm of Castellane, with its narrow streets and historic Collegiate Church, and the picturesque village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
- Depending on the season, the tour may also offer the opportunity to witness the stunning lavender fields in the region.
Tour Overview
The "Nice: The Gorges du Verdon and Ste Croix Lake Full-Day Tour" is a comprehensive nine-hour excursion that allows visitors to explore the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon, known as the "Grand Canyon of France," and the scenic Ste Croix Lake.
Priced from €125 per person, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or private residence and is available in English, French, and Spanish. Guests can choose a private group option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour highlights include panoramic views, medieval villages, and water activities at Ste Croix Lake.
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Key Highlights
Visitors can admire the stunning Gorges du Verdon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of France," known for its breathtaking panoramic views and ample photo opportunities. The tour also explores the medieval village of Castellane and the charming Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Guests can enjoy the scenic Ste Croix Lake, the third largest lake in France, perfect for swimming, canoeing, pedal boating, and electric boating. The tour offers a chance to experience local culture, heritage, and even lavender fields during the peak season.
| Activity | Location | Duration |
|———-|———-|———-|
| Admire Gorges du Verdon | Gorges du Verdon | 1-2 hours |
| Explore Castellane | Castellane | 1 hour |
| Discover Moustiers-Sainte-Marie | Moustiers-Sainte-Marie | 1-2 hours |
| Enjoy Ste Croix Lake | Ste Croix Lake | 2-3 hours |
| Admire Lavender Fields | Throughout Tour | Seasonal |
Exploring Gorges Du Verdon
Towering limestone cliffs rise majestically over the turquoise waters of the Gorges du Verdon, known as the "Grand Canyon of France."
This dramatic natural wonder captivates visitors with its stunning vistas and endless photo opportunities.
The tour explores the Gorges du Verdon in depth:
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Driving along the corniche roads, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon.
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Stopping at designated viewpoints to capture the scale and beauty of the landscape.
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Discovering hidden trails and paths that lead to remote, secluded areas of the gorge.
Exploring the Gorges du Verdon is an unforgettable highlight of this full-day tour.
The Medieval Village of Castellane
After exploring the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon, the tour heads to the medieval village of Castellane, a city of historical significance and character.
Nestled at the foot of a towering rock, Castellane boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 11th century. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, admiring the traditional architecture and visiting the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption, a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic styles.
The tour also provides opportunities to discover local shops and enjoy the lively ambiance of this picturesque town, offering a glimpse into the region’s captivating past.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
From Castellane, the tour continues to the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, recognized as one of the most beautiful in France and renowned for its production of fine pottery.
This medieval village boasts:
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Charming architectural features, including a star-shaped fountain and the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Church.
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Renowned for its hand-painted, tin-glazed earthenware dishes, bowls, and vases, known as "Moustiers faience."
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Stunning natural setting, nestled between towering limestone cliffs and the Verdon River.
Visitors can explore the quaint streets, browse local pottery shops, and admire the picturesque surroundings of this quintessential French village.
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Ste Croix Lake Adventure
After exploring the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the tour takes visitors to Ste Croix Lake, the third largest lake in France.
Travelers can engage in a variety of water activities like swimming, canoeing, pedal boating, and electric boating. The serene lake offers stunning scenery and photo opportunities.
Whether relaxing on the shore or out on the water, visitors can soak up the natural beauty of this idyllic setting. The lake’s tranquil atmosphere provides the perfect complement to the earlier adventure through the dramatic Gorges du Verdon.
Seasonal Activities
The full-day tour offers opportunities to experience seasonal activities depending on the time of year.
Seasonal activities await visitors throughout the year on this full-day tour.
For example:
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In late June to July, visitors can admire the lavender fields in bloom, filling the air with their calming fragrance.
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During the warmer months, guests can enjoy swimming, canoeing, pedal boating, and electric boating at the picturesque Sainte-Croix Lake.
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Throughout the tour, participants can enjoy the local culture and heritage by exploring the medieval villages of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
Tour Inclusions and Logistics
The full-day tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver/guide to transport guests throughout the day. Pickup and drop-off in Nice are included. Food and drinks are not provided, so guests should plan accordingly. Tips for the guide are also not included in the tour price. The tour is available in English, French, and Spanish to accommodate various language preferences. Guests have the option to book a private group tour for a more personalized experience.
| What’s Included | What’s Not Included |
| — | — |
| Air-conditioned vehicle | Food and drinks |
| Professional driver/guide | Tips for the guide |
| Pickup and drop-off in Nice | – |
| Available in 3 languages | – |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, as it includes activities like swimming, canoeing, and electric boating at Ste Croix Lake. However, parents should consider the long duration and ensure their children can handle the day-long excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver/guide, but food and drink are not provided. However, there are opportunities to purchase refreshments during the tour.
How Much Free Time Is Allotted at Each Stop?
The tour provides ample free time at each stop, allowing visitors to explore the sights at their own pace. Typical stops include 45-60 minutes to wander through the medieval villages and take in the stunning natural scenery.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?
For the activities at Sainte-Croix Lake, you don’t need to bring any special equipment. The tour includes options like swimming, canoeing, pedal boats, and electric boats, which are provided. Just bring your swimsuit and towel.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. The standard ticket price of €125.00 per person applies regardless of age or student status. However, they do provide a private group option for those interested.
The Wrap Up
This full-day tour provides an exceptional opportunity to take in the natural splendor and rich history of the Provence region. Witness the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon, explore the medieval charm of Castellane, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Ste Croix Lake. With convenient transportation and multilingual options, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure tailored to your interests and needs.
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