Top 5 activities in the Verdon Canyon
The Verdon Gorge is a stunning river canyon in South Eastern France. It is famous for its cliffs and white-water rapids. It is one of the natural wonders in the Alps – De – Haute – Provence you must see. The Gorges du Verdon attracts many visitors every year because it is popular for different activities such as hiking, kayaking, climbing, and canoeing. Some people even come for bird watching as Griffon and Black vultures which are some of the largest birds can be seen here. Continue leading for a list of the top 5 activities Verdon Canyon activities.
Canyoning
The Gorges du Verdon is a popular place amongst canyoning enthusiasts because it is well known for its beautiful scenery and turquoise waters in the vast wilderness. It is the perfect Verdon Canyon activity for adventure seekers who want to escape from the crowds of tourists in Cote d’Azur. There is something for everyone at this location including descents for all abilities, so it does not matter if you are an experienced canyoner or have never tried it before. You can always ask for an experienced guide to go with you for a sense of safety. It will make your trip more fun.
There are full day and half-day canyoning adventures to choose from and they are located in remote areas surrounded by majestic mountains. It is a fantastic way to discover this part of the Gorges du Verdon and take in the breath-taking scenery and feeling of isolation – the real sense of adventure that this trip gives you.
The canyoning descent starts with a steep 400m vertical drop down the Inbut Trail. Once you arrive at the river, you will switch from swimming, trekking, and jumping. Jumping is optional, but if you are feeling brave, there are 12m jumps. The full descent takes up to 6 hours, with 3 hours in the water and a lunch break before the strenuous 400m climb back up to the canyon.
You need to have a good level of fitness to be able to get the most out of this experience and enjoy it. You will need to bring old trainers, a swimsuit, a picnic, and some water.
Kayaking and water sports
The Verdon is a 166km river in the Alps – De – Haute – Provence which is an ideal place for kayaking and water sports during the summer months of July and August. This activity is suitable for individuals who want to have fun in an inflatable kayak or small groups who want to experience a tandem kayak through the Verdon Grand Canyon.
The Vernon Grand Canyon is a legendary class 5 descent. Kayaking through it is not for the faint hearted. It is a challenging run because there is no way in or out with rock walls on both sides and can therefore be quite dangerous. There are many hidden boulders, siphons, undercuts, and long class 4 sections along the limestone gorge. However, you can take an experienced guide with you who knows the river well for your safety and peace of mind, and to ensure that you can enjoy this fantastic activity.
There are also beautiful lakes around the Alps – De – Houte – Provence which are the ultimate locations for water sports. Whether or not you are into windsurfing, swimming, sailing, water skiing, or pedal boating, there is something for everyone.
Climbing
The Verdon river cuts a 100m high limestone gorge making it one of the most spectacular places in the Alps – De – Houte – Provence to go climbing. Whether or not you are an experienced climber or a beginner, there is a wide range of climbing options to choose from with 1000 routes. Although, it is possible to walk down the gorge on some routes, the best way to get the most out of this Verdon Canyon activity is to abseil down your chosen route by pulling the ropes and climbing out.
The best time to go climbing at the Verdon Canyon is in the Autumn because the climate is still dry but not as hot as the summer heat.
Hiking
Hiking through the Gorges Du Verdon is one of Europe’s most popular hikes because it is a natural park which is known for it is beautiful river canyons. Hiking the famous Blanc-Martel trail can take you up to 3 days. You will hike through old oak trees, see griffon vultures flying through on thermals and the crevices of huge canyon walls.
Hiking this route is best done in April through to November. In the autumn, you will be able to see the beautiful colours on the trees. If you decide to do the hike during the summer, it is advised to take plenty of water as the canyons get extremely hot.
Rafting
White water rafting is one of the most popular Gordon Canyon activities to do in the summer months. It is a great activity to do in small groups with family or friends. There are different routes to choose from including routes suitable for families and routes for the more adventurous types.
White water rafting along the Verdon will allow you to admire the beauty of its interior. Equipped with a helmet, wet suit, a paddle, and life jacket, you will be ready to take on the white waters of this gorge. Your instructor will lead the raft and give you instructions and safety measures and the information about your chosen route to make your trip along the Verdon unforgettable.
The Verdon gorge is a spectacular place filled with natural beauty and stunning scenery in the Alps – De – Houte – Provence of France. You will never get bored during your trip to this part of France because it is filled with fun packed activities from white water rafting, rock climbing, water sports and hiking, there is something to suit everyone and at any ability. This article has covered the top 5 Verdon Canyon activities which are suitable for individuals, small groups, beginners, or experienced adventure seekers looking for another adrenaline rush. You are bound to enjoy these activities and have an unforgettable trip in this spectacular part of the world.
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