The Verdon Gorge and Rougon: a van adventure in the heart of the Grand Canyon of the Verdon

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Verdon Gorge and the hilltop village of Rougon, with turquoise waters, sheer cliffs and stunning trails. An unforgettable campervan road trip where wild nature and authenticity blend around every bend.

Welcome to one of Provence’s most beautiful gems, where the Verdon River has carved, over millennia, a spectacular canyon with emerald hues. Between Rougon, the gateway to the Gorges, and the jaw-dropping viewpoints, your van takes you into a picture-postcard setting. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera and sharpen your sense of wonder: here are six must-see spots you simply can’t miss.

Point Sublime

This viewpoint offers an unrivalled view of the Verdon Gorge, with its towering cliffs and turquoise meanders. An ideal spot for a picnic with the canyon stretching out before you.

Where to sleep nearby

Campasun camping de l’Aigle Campsite ★ 4.4 Stunning views over Lac de Sainte-Croix, terraced pitches. 6 minutes by car. › Parking at Dent de l’Aire viewpoint La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 4.9 360-degree views of the gorges, flat and spacious parking. 6 minutes by car. › D957, Aiguines Motorhome area ★ 3.4 Lakeside spot, £10 per night with toilets and showers. 7 minutes by car. › Camping Bio Verdon Campsite ★ 4.2 Eco-friendly campsite in nature, large shaded meadows. 46 minutes on foot. › Gorge parking Gorges du Verdon Aiguines Parking ★ 4.8 Natural tiered spot with spectacular gorge views. 7 minutes by car. ›

Sentier Martel

One of the most stunning hiking trails in the Gorges, featuring narrow passages, tunnels and breathtaking viewpoints. Allow 6 to 7 hours for this unforgettable adventure.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping de Trigance Campsite ★ 4.9 Mountain setting with views of Trigance and the Gorges. Access via steep track, absolute tranquillity. › Camping municipal - le Grand Canyon Campsite ★ 4.4 Central campsite with shuttle to Sentier Martel. Nearby village of La Palud, Provençal atmosphere. › Parking with stunning views La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 5 Free roadside spot on a quiet road, magnificent views. Peaceful at night, stabilisable ground. › Motorhome area with view over Trigance Motorhome area ★ 3.5 Free communal car park with valley views. 3-5 spaces, seasonal facilities, village vibe. › Camping Bio Verdon Campsite ★ 4.2 Eco-friendly campsite in nature, 10 minutes on foot from La Palud. Large shaded meadows, free choice of pitches. ›

Lac de Sainte-Croix

This lake with crystal-clear waters is perfect for a refreshing swim or a canoe trip. Its shores, accessible by van, offer dreamlike scenery.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Campsite ★ 4.6 Peaceful campsite 100-200 m from the lake, direct beach access. Village and shops 5 minutes on foot. › Lake parking 2-meter barrier Aiguines Parking ★ 4.5 Lakeside parking with magnificent views, ample space. Dry toilets, 6 minutes by car. › Camping Le Clos Campsite ★ 4.5 Family campsite in the forest, shaded pitches. 5 minutes by car from the lake, basic sanitary facilities. › Campasun camping de l’Aigle Campsite ★ 4.4 3-star campsite with panoramic lake views. 6 minutes by car, ideal for sunsets. › Roadside parking by Lac Ste Croix Aiguines Parking ★ 5 Free car park with spectacular lake views. Very quiet at night, 7 minutes by car. ›

Rougon

This medieval village perched on a rocky spur overlooks the Verdon Gorge. Its cobbled streets and Romanesque church are well worth a visit.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking at Dent de l’Aire viewpoint La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 4.9 360-degree views of the Verdon Gorge, flat and spacious. 5 minutes by car, rating 4.9 (36 reviews). › Camping de Trigance Campsite ★ 4.9 Farm campsite in the mountains, natural and peaceful setting. 7 minutes by car, rating 4.9 (19 reviews). › Camping municipal - le Grand Canyon Campsite ★ 4.4 Municipal campsite near the Blanc-Martel trail, shuttle 10 minutes away. 5 minutes by car, rating 4.4 (162 reviews). › Parking dry toilet Rougon Parking ★ 4.1 Shaded car park at the gorge entrance, dry toilets. 9 minutes on foot, rating 4.1 (21 reviews). › Parking with stunning views La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 5 Free car park with gorge views, peaceful at night. 6 minutes by car, rating 5 (3 reviews). ›

Belvédère de l’Escalès

Less crowded than Point Sublime, this viewpoint provides a spectacular view of the Gorges and the Verdon River. A peaceful place to soak in the natural beauty.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Les Roseaux Campsite ★ 3.8 Shaded campsite 500 m from the beach, pitches with water. 4 minutes on foot, rating 3.8/5. › Dirt parking along road Belvédère-Campomoro Parking ★ 4.7 Free dirt parking for 2 vans, absolute tranquillity. 8 minutes on foot from the viewpoint. › Belvédère-Campomoro beach parking Belvédère-Campomoro Parking ★ 3.9 Free coastal parking out of season, public toilets. 3 minutes on foot, view of the Genoese tower. › Parking by the beach with no time limit Propriano Parking ★ 3.9 Free beach car park, guaranteed sunsets. 9 minutes by car, 76 reviews. › Van parking Propriano Parking ★ 3.7 Secluded spot with sea views, steep trail access. 8 minutes by car, free and peaceful. ›

Couloirs Samaria

A unique aquatic hike, where you’ll walk along the riverbed of the Verdon itself. Booking is essential for this extraordinary experience.

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