Van road trip: the Verdon Gorge and Lake Sainte-Croix, jewels of the south

Set off on a wild adventure between turquoise waters and sheer cliffs. Here are five must-see spots to explore by campervan or motorhome.

In the heart of Provence, the Verdon Gorge and Lake Sainte-Croix offer the perfect playground for nature lovers and those who crave wide-open spaces. With breathtaking hikes, refreshing swims and 360-degree viewpoints, this road trip promises unforgettable landscapes, all accessible with your vehicle. Ready to hit the road?

Point Sublime

This viewpoint offers an unrivalled panorama of the Verdon Gorge, with its towering cliffs and emerald waters. A must-stop for photos to capture the wild soul of the canyon.

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 highly rated parking. 6-minute drive. › Campasun camping de l’Aigle Campsite ★ 4.4 3-star campsite with stunning lake views, shaded terraces. 6-minute drive. › D957, Aiguines Motorhome area ★ 3.4 Paid parking area facing Lake Sainte-Croix, basic facilities included. 7-minute drive. › Parking for hikes in La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 4.8 Quiet parking, hiking trails to an abandoned village. 6-minute drive. › Camping Bourbon Campsite ★ 4.2 Rustic campsite 200 m from the village, meadow and panoramic views. 39-minute walk. ›

Sentier Martel

The legendary hike of the Verdon Gorge, featuring narrow passages and otherworldly landscapes. Allow 6 to 7 hours to tackle this spectacular trail, best suited to experienced walkers.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Campsite ★ 4.6 Direct access to Lake Sainte-Croix beach. Village with shops and market, 5-minute walk. › Camping Les Pins Campsite ★ 4.6 Shaded pitches by the lake. Clean facilities, family-friendly and well rated. › Parking for hikes in La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 4.8 Quiet parking in nature. Hiking trails to medieval ruins, 800 m away. › Col d'Illoire parking Aiguines Parking ★ 4.7 Stunning views of the Verdon Gorge. Flat, well-maintained parking with tables. › Camping municipal - le Grand Canyon Campsite ★ 4.4 Municipal campsite near the Blanc-Martel trail. 10-minute shuttle to explore the gorge. ›

Lake Sainte-Croix

Its crystal-clear waters, framed by lush green hills, make it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxation. Perfect for a picnic or a sunset paddleboarding session.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Campsite ★ 4.6 Lakeside campsite 100 m from the beach, peaceful. Rated 4.6, shops 5-minute walk away. › Lake parking 2-meter barrier Aiguines Parking ★ 4.5 Huge lakeside parking, sublime views. Free, dry toilets, 6-minute drive. › Camping Le Clos Campsite ★ 4.5 Shaded forest campsite, free pitches. 5-minute drive, basic facilities. › Roadside parking by Lac Ste Croix Aiguines Parking ★ 5 Parking for 2 vehicles, spectacular lake views. Free, quiet, 7-minute drive. › Campasun camping de l’Aigle Campsite ★ 4.4 3-star campsite with panoramic lake views. 6-minute drive, guaranteed sunsets. ›

Village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Ranked among France’s most beautiful villages, this Provençal gem blends medieval charm with local craftsmanship. Don’t miss its waterfall and renowned pottery.

Where to sleep nearby

La Ferme de Vauvenières Campsite ★ 4.8 Provençal farm at altitude, lavender fields. Rated 4.8, 7-minute drive (6 km). › Camping le Vieux Colombier Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly shaded campsite, 12-minute walk from the village. Rated 4.7, spacious pitches. › Parking viewpoint lake gorges La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 4.9 Stunning views of lake and gorge, free. Rated 4.9, 6-minute drive (6 km). › Parking sailing school Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Parking ★ 4.1 Large flat parking by the lake, pebble beach. Free, 5-minute drive (5 km). › Quiet parking with countryside view Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Parking ★ 4.1 Panoramic spot over Moustiers, lavender fields. Free, 31-minute walk. ›

Belvédère de l’Escalès

Less crowded but just as impressive, this viewpoint overlooks Lake Sainte-Croix and the Gorge. A peaceful setting to admire the contrast between water and rock.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Les Roseaux Campsite ★ 3.8 Shaded campsite 500 m from Campomoro beach, rated 3.8. 4-minute walk, pitches with water. › Parking by the beach with no time limit Propriano Parking ★ 3.9 Free beachside parking in Propriano, sunset views. 9-minute drive (9 km). › Dirt parking along road Belvédère-Campomoro Parking ★ 4.7 Quiet earth parking near Campomoro, 2 van spaces. 8-minute walk, rated 4.7. › Belvédère-Campomoro beach parking Belvédère-Campomoro Parking ★ 3.9 Free coastal parking off-season, direct beach access. 3-minute walk, public toilets. › Van parking Propriano Parking ★ 3.7 Secluded spot with sea views, van-friendly. 8-minute drive (7 km), peaceful. ›

Pont de Galetas

This bridge spanning the Verdon marks the entrance to the Gorge and offers a unique perspective on the canyon. A quick stop to soak in the scale of the site before diving into the adventure.

Where to sleep nearby

Motorhome parking Pont du Galetas Aiguines Parking ★ 4.3 Free parking by the lake, 6-minute drive. Stunning views of the gorge and lake. › La Ferme de Vauvenières Campsite ★ 4.8 Provençal farm at 600 m altitude, 7-minute drive. Very peaceful, lavender fields. › Camping le Vieux Colombier Campsite ★ 4.7 Family campsite 12-minute walk from the village. Shaded and spacious pitches. › Wilderness parking Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Parking ★ 4.6 Isolated natural spot, views of lavender and mountains. 30-minute walk, total tranquillity. › Lake Sainte-Croix lakeside parking Aiguines Parking ★ 4.2 Meadow by the lake with beach, 6-minute drive. Water activities and gorge nearby. ›

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