Skip to content
Scenic Gorges du Verdon Tour & Picturesque Provençal Villages
Day 1 March 26th
A Serene Arrival in Provence: From Marseille to Gréoux-les-Bains
Today marked the beginning of a journey into the heart of Provence—a day defined by gentle transitions, sensory pleasures, and the unmistakable charm of southern France.
After arriving at Marseille Provence Airport I was met by Atout France and joined the rest of my group from various parts of the world to explore Provence. The bustle of travel faded as we were transferred to the peaceful village of Gréoux-les-Bains, a destination often described as the romantic haven of the Verdon. Nestled perfectly between the sweeping lavender fields of the Valensole plateau and the dramatic beauty of the Verdon Gorges, the village felt like stepping into a postcard.
We had an early check-in at Villa Castellane à Gréoux-les-Bains. Villa Castellane is an exceptional destination in Gréoux-les-Bains, nestled between the Luberon Regional Nature Park and the Gorges du Verdon. A great base to settle for a few days if you enjoy morning activities followed by peaceful and relaxing afternoons and evenings. Here we met our fun guides Chloe Cossec and Antoine Stefanini from Alpes de Haute Provence tourism board who accompanied us throughout our four days.
We got our first taste of Provence at Restaurant Cala, a stylish yet welcoming family-run spot. Laurence and her two sons have created something special here—a modern take on Provençal cuisine, paired thoughtfully with an impressive wine selection. It was the perfect introduction: fresh, vibrant, and deeply rooted in local tradition and the perfect spot to get to know my fellow travellers.
In the afternoon, we wandered through the medieval streets of Gréoux-les-Bains. The village revealed itself slowly—stone façades, quiet squares, and centuries of history etched into its architecture. Every corner carried a story, reinforcing its reputation as both a cultural gem and a place of quiet romance.
Later, indulgence took center stage at L’Éclat Chocolaterie. This wasn’t just a stop—it was an experience. We explored the small workshop, watched a fascinating roasting demonstration, and then savored a tasting of 4 chocolates. It was a moment to slow down and truly appreciate craftsmanship.
As the day drew to a close, relaxation became the focus with a Spa Discovery experience—one of Haute-Provence’s most treasured wellness offerings at Chaine Thermale du Soleil. The treatments felt almost ceremonial: a remineralizing hydromassage bath to awaken the senses, a weightless kaolin bath that dissolved tension, mud bath and a thermal hydromassage shower that was both invigorating and calming.
Beyond the treatments, the experience extended into tranquil spaces—the crystal-clear relaxation pool, the soothing warmth of the hammam, and a quiet herbal tea lounge that invited reflection. It was more than relaxation; it was a gentle immersion into the thermal heritage that defines Gréoux-les-Bains.
In the early evening we were transferred to Maison de Pays du Verdon. A must-stop for those of you interested in tasting, and purchasing in one single place, the full range of authentic local flavors and craftsmanship of the Verdon at the Maison de Produits de Pays of Verdon. A french indoor, boutique style farmers market. - you will find these dotted around this area.
The evening finished off a busy first day with dinner at the hotel restaurant Le Pavillon Le restaurant de l’Hôtel. This was a fabulous meal, homemade cuisine inspired by traditional Provençal recipes.
We slept well!
Day 2 March 27th
Verdon’s Natural Wonders and Timeless Villages
The day began with a scenic transfer to Esparron-de-Verdon, with a panoramic stop overlooking the Gréoux dam—turquoise waters framed by rolling green hills.
From there, we embarked on a peaceful electric boat ride along the Verdon, gliding from Esparron to Quinson. The silence of the boat allowed us to fully absorb the towering cliffs and vivid waters of the gorge. Soooo many colours bouncing off the water. Travelling in March at the start of the season really allowed us to experience the silence, tranquility and raw beauty of the Verdon. This area is a hive of activity for both young and not so young during July and August - plenty for all the family to enjoy.
In Quinson, we visited the Museum of Prehistory of the Gorges du Verdon, where fascinating exhibits brought the ancient history of the valley to life. All ages can stop off here and learn some ancient customs - we tried hard to start a fire with sticks and strings but we failed miserably!
Lunch at Relais Notre Dame was unforgettable—fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavour. Every bite felt like a celebration of local produce. If you want local, this is it. The cuisine is sooo fresh it nearly jumps off the plate, the colours, the smells, the tastes, breads, salads, cheese, wine - all so simple but all so gorgeous - take me back!
The afternoon led us to Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and the Maison de l’Eau et de la Vallée, which told the story of the valley before the lake reshaped it. We stopped at the lake and visited the Maison de l’eau et de la Vallée (House of Water and the Valley) ; this museum space traces life in the Verdon Valley before the lake was flooded and the village rebuilt. Small but cute museum with a stunning viewpoint. During the summer this is a busy spot for water sports and the old village has some lovely restaurants to just sit and watch.
Later, we continued to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of the ‘Most Beautiful villages of France’. With its faïence craftsmanship, winding streets, and storybook setting, it felt almost magical. We took the small trek up the steps to the Church at the top of the village for stunning views over the French countryside
We checked in at Hôtel Les Restanques before enjoying a refined dinner at Côté Jardin—a peaceful garden setting paired with elegant, locally inspired cuisine.
Day 3 March 28th
High Cliffs and Wild Beauty
Today was all about the dramatic landscapes of the Verdon. We set off along the Route des Crêtes, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the gorge. I was located at the right side of the bus and couldn’t take my eyes off the road and the gorgeous viewpoints around every corner. One of my colleagues on the tour designs driving tours in this area and I can see why. Personally I prefer to be driven!
With Raoul Rafting, we experienced the gorges from a new perspective—spotting vultures soaring above the cliffs, a powerful and unforgettable sight. Raoul provided the binoculars and experience to help us spot these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. This is definitely a unique activity to try for all ages.
We enjoyed a lovely lunch and showaround at Hôtel & Spa des Gorges du Verdon offered both incredible views and warm hospitality, continuing a long-standing family tradition. This would be a great overnight stop in the heart of the majestic Verdon mountains.
In the afternoon, we travelled to Castellane, a charming town dominated by its iconic rock formation, “Le Roc.” Wandering its streets revealed a mix of history, local life, and Provençal character. At the end of March it was a beautiful sleepy village but can swell with water sports enthusiasts in July and August as the lake of Castillon abounds with offers of river rafting, canoeing and canyoning. Fun for all the family. We were a little too early in the season for partaking in white water rafting….phew!
We checked in at Nouvel Hôtel du Commerce, where the welcoming atmosphere and regional cuisine made for a comforting end to an adventurous day.
We continued on to Annot, a hidden gem nestled beneath dramatic rock formations. WE joined some other touring groups for lunch at Le Pré which was simple, local, and deeply satisfying.
Our journey concluded in unforgettable fashion with a 1hr 40min train journey aboard the Train des Pignes to Nice. Travelling through tunnels, viaducts, and mountain landscapes, the route offered spectacular views at every turn—a fitting finale to our time in Provence.
It was a fantastic few days showcasing some highlights of the Provence area,- I only wish I could have lingered longer!
