Gorges du Verdon Boat Picnic, Lavender Fields & Sainte-Croix Village Day Trip from Aix-en-Provence
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Light physical condition required—able to board a small boat and walk short village paths; suitable for most travelers.
Overview
Spend a day cruising the Gorges du Verdon in a private electric boat, picnic on the lake with local wines, and wander lavender fields and perched villages like Sainte-Croix. This accessible seven-hour loop from Aix-en-Provence pairs slow water with Provençal light.
Gorges du Verdon Boat Picnic, Lavender Fields & Sainte-Croix Village Day Trip from Aix-en-Provence
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You step out of the minivan and the road seems to fall away into a canyon the color of broken sapphire. Wind presses warm air against your face and the Verdon River, which carved the gorge over millennia, hurls itself forward far beneath—quiet now in the glassy lake below, daring you to slow down.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring swimwear and a towel
The electric boat stops for swims on calm water—pack a towel and quick-dry swimwear for a confident dip.
Sun protection is non-negotiable
Steep canyon walls offer shade, but the lake, fields and village lanes expose you to strong Provençal sun—sunscreen, hat and sunglasses are essential.
Wear sturdy shoes for village streets
Cobblestone lanes and uneven village paths require supportive, closed-toe shoes rather than flip-flops.
Respect lavender plots
Many fields are private; ask before entering and avoid trampling rows—photograph from edges to preserve blooms.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Griffon vulture
- Wild boar
History
The Verdon Gorge was carved by millennia of river erosion through Jurassic limestone; nearby villages date back to medieval trade routes and hilltop defense positions.
Conservation
Much of the area sits within the Parc naturel régional du Verdon—respect marked paths, avoid trampling lavender, and follow local guidance to minimize boat disturbance on sensitive shorelines.
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Adventure Hotspots in Aix-en-Provence
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit & quick-dry towel
Useful for lake swims during the boat portion and for sun-soaked beach time at Sainte-Croix.
summer specific
Sun hat & sunscreen
Protects against strong Provençal sun across open water, fields and village streets.
summer specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Comfortable shoes handle cobbles, small hikes and boat boarding safely.
Light wind or rain jacket
Spring and early summer mornings can be breezy; a lightweight layer helps against chill on the water.
spring specific