Full-Day Gorges du Verdon and Valensole Lavender Fields Tour from Nice
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with light to moderate fitness; mostly vehicle-based with short walks and stairs.
Overview
Drive from Nice into Europe's deepest canyon, stand above turquoise waters and wander a 5th-century village before stepping into lavender fields on the Valensole plateau. This 8-hour guided day tour balances scenic stops with short walks and local insights.
Full-Day Gorges du Verdon and Valensole Lavender Fields Tour from Nice
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The van threads a ribbon of mountain road and then the earth opens—sheer limestone walls tumble toward a river that seems to have borrowed its color from a jeweler's shop. You step out at a viewpoint and the Verdon dares you to look down: a 25-kilometer gorge carved over millennia, cliffs plunging up to 700 meters, and a ribbon of turquoise water that pushes stubbornly through the canyon.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Stay hydrated on the drive
Bring a 1–2L refillable water bottle—the air is dry and viewpoints expose you to sun and wind.
Wear grippy shoes
Walks at viewpoints and in Moustiers include uneven limestone and cobbles—sturdy walking shoes help prevent slips.
Plan for lavender season
Lavender peaks in June–July; if you want the purple fields, book noon–afternoon tours in that window.
Respect wildlife and nesting sites
Keep distance from raptors and avoid noises or drones near cliffs to protect sensitive breeding areas.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Griffon vulture
- Golden eagle
History
The Verdon cut through Jurassic limestone to form the canyon; Moustiers developed as a faience center in the 17th–18th centuries and still hosts artisan workshops.
Conservation
The area is part of the Verdon Regional Natural Park—stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing nesting birds and support local villages to help preserve habitats and cultural heritage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Nice
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Support and traction for short hikes, viewpoints and cobbled village streets.
Refillable water bottle
Hydration for long summer days and exposed viewpoints.
summer specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Provence sun is strong—protect skin and eyes during open‑air stops.
summer specific
Light windproof jacket
Canyon rim winds and cooler mornings/late afternoons make a light layer useful.
spring specific