Gorges du Verdon Boat Picnic, Lavender Fields & Sainte-Croix Village: A Provençal Day Trip
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness; comfortable standing, short walks and easy boat handling required
Overview
Pilot a quiet electric boat through Europe’s largest canyon, picnic on clear water with local wines, then stroll near empty lavender fields and the hilltop village of Sainte-Croix. This one-day Provençal loop balances geology, cuisine, and swim-ready calm.
Gorges du Verdon Boat Picnic, Lavender Fields & Sainte-Croix Village: A Provençal Day Trip
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You round a hairpin and the road opens into a slice of Provence that reads like a geography lesson with a good sense of drama: the Verdon cuts a white, vertical scar through pale limestone, and below it, the lake gleams a Mediterranean turquoise. Your guide hands you a lightweight electric boat key and a wicker basket—local bread, goat cheese, and a small bottle of rosé that belongs to the place as much as the rock does.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring a swimsuit and towel
The Lac de Sainte-Croix and sheltered coves invite swims—pack a quick-dry towel and waterproof bag for phones.
Protect against sun and glare
Canyon walls amplify sunlight; use SPF 50, a wide-brim hat, and polarized sunglasses for on-water comfort.
Wear flexible footwear
Village lanes and rocky shore landings need sturdy sandals or light hiking shoes that can get wet.
Carry a refillable bottle
Local taps at village squares allow refills—stay hydrated, especially during summer heat.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common kestrels hunting canyon thermals
- European otters along quieter lake inlets
History
The Verdon cut its canyon through Eocene and Miocene limestones; human settlement in the area dates back to medieval perched villages that controlled valley routes.
Conservation
Visitors should stick to marked paths and avoid trampling lavender; the region has protections for freshwater habitats—use reef-safe sunscreen and pack out trash.
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Adventure Hotspots in Aix-en-Provence
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-dry swimwear
For jumps from the boat and beach time on Lac de Sainte-Croix.
summer specific
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare on the lake and improves visibility of canyon features.
Light hiking sandals or trainers
Good for village cobbles and wet shore landings.
Small daypack with waterproof pocket
Carries picnic items, camera, and layered clothing without getting soggy.