Greoux-les-Bains is situated on the Verdon, in the heart of the triangle formed by the Var County, the Rhône estuary and the Vaucluse County. It thus benefits from an excellent geographical position, being at the heart of Provence. The health resort is an ideal starting point for discovering the cultural charms of Provence and its most important sights.

 

THE VERDON AND THE LAKES : «LAC DE SAINTE-CROIX» AND «LAC D’ESPARRON-DE-VERDON»

Both lakes «Lac de Sainte-Croix» and «Lac d’Esparron-de-Verdon» as well as the Verdon River will give you an unforgettable experience of nature ! With their clear and emerald green waters, they look like precious gems surrounded by the rocks of the Verdon Gorges. These lakes and the Verdon invite you to have a swim or just relax and sunbathe on the beaches. And if you like, you can also have a leisurely picnic. But nothing is left wanting for adventurers : sailing clubs await you, where you can hire canoes, paddleboats and electric boats for cruises in the Lower and Higher Verdon Gorges.

«LES GORGES DU VERDON» – THE VERDON GORGES

The Verdon Gorges are a magnificent sight to behold! You can see the huge limestone cliffs of Europe’s unique geological formation. Entering the Verdon Gorges will unquestionably take your breath away. With a hight of 700 meters above the river, you can view the gigantic limestone cliffs from ledges and observation points. Nowhere else in Europe will you find such natural vantage points.

FISHING

Both lakes and various other places in the Verdon are simply an angler’s paradise. Along a stretch of 15 km, you will find a succession of lakes and streams, ranked as «first category» according to French standards, which support the survival of fish habitats. The lake «Lac d’Esparron-de- Verdon» is an example of a stretch of water ranked as «second category» for fishing.

From Greoux-les-Bains to Verdon Gorges – self-drive

ROUTE RETURNING VIA THE «LOWER GORGES»

Starting from Gréoux-les-Bains, head towards Riez on a 183 km route that takes you right through the Verdon Gorge. You’ll see some beautiful Verdon villages along the way, including Moustiers-Sainte- Marie, one of the most picturesque villages in France, Rougon overlooking the entrance to the Verdon Canyon («Point Sublime») and Sainte- Croix-de-Verdon which overhangs a vast turquoise lake.

On your way back via the Lower Gorges, don’t forget to stop off at Europe’s largest museum of prehistory in Quinson, and Esparron-de-Verdon lake, bordered by rocky coves and cliffs.

Donot forget to take pictures !

ROUTE ALONG THE ROUTE DES CRÊTES (one-way street)

Starting at «La Palud-sur-Verdon», take the D23 for a 23 km loop.

You’ll overlook the famous Verdon and visit 14 well-known viewpoints, including La Carelle, Guegues, L’Escalet and the Dent d’Aire. An unforgettable view over the Verdon Canyon and the legendary cliffs of the Escalès. Return stretch via La Palud, Sainte-Croix and Riez.

Highlights …

• Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel in Moustiers Sainte-Marie
• Sainte-Croix Lake and village
• Verdon Gorge museum in La Palud-sur-Verdon
• Museum of Prehistory in Quinson
• Galetas beaches at the entrance to the Higher Verdon Gorges
• The panorama at «Point Sublime» near Rougon

DISCOVER …

Gréoux-les-Bains is situated on the Verdon, in the heart of the triangle formed by the Var County, the Rhône estuary and the Vaucluse County. It thus benefits from an excellent geographical position, being at the heart of Provence. The health resort is an ideal starting point for discovering the cultural charms of Provence and its most important sights.

During your stay in Provence, why not take the opportunity to get to know the region’s local products ? It is a must to follow the lavender, olive and wine trails across Provence. Vendors and producers will be happy to explain their products to you and offer you advice.

• Château de Rousset : 0033 (0)4 92 72 62 49
• Domaine de Saint-Jean : 0033 (0)4 92 72 50 20
• Coopérative de Pierrevert : 0033 (0)4 92 72 19 06
• Domaine de Régusse : 0033 (0)4 92 72 30 44
• Domaine de La Blaque : 0033 (0)4 92 72 39 71
• Distillerie de Forcalquier (Pastis, Absinth…) : 0033 (0)4 92 75 00 58
• Domaine de La Madeleine : 0033 (0)4 92 72 13 91

… Across Provence : Themes self-drive tours

OLIVE GROVE ROUTE

(89 km – 1 Day)

The olive tree is an essential part of Provençal culture and heritage and its symbolism is greatly appreciated.

Olive trees grow at an altitude between 400 and 600m. Such a location gives the oil an exceptional taste and nectar. Discover the benefits, uses and aromas of this legendary fruit as you visit olive groves, windmills, cooperatives and even a museum.

LAVENDER ROUTE

(100 km – 1 Day)

With its attractive colours and aroma, lavender is a celebration of Provence. Delve into a tradition that, over the centuries, has shaped the face of the Alpes in Haute-Provence. A visit to a distillery is a must, as is experiencing a traditional festival and taking one of the many lavender-themed tours.

Find out more www.routes-lavande.com

VINEYARDS ROUTE

(95 km – ½ Day)

Starting at Gréoux-les-Bains, this route will take you through the «Côteaux de Pierrevert» acknowledged and AOC labelled local wines from the Alpes de Haute-Provence region.

WARNING : TOO MUCH ALCOHOL IS HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH !

QUINSON

Prehistoric museum (30 km from Gréoux-les-Bains)

A real journey through time, beginning more than a million years ago. Archaeological objects, reconstructions, dioramas, herds… Discover all this with your family.

For more information : 0033-(0)4 92 74 09 59 or visit www.museeprehistoire.com