Kayak and Gorges du Verdon: paddle in a preserved setting
Published on 07/02/2025 by CAMPASUN
Kayaking in the Gorges du Verdon means paddling in a beautiful natural setting combining high limestone cliffs and sparkling turquoise waters. This exceptional site – located between the Var and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence – is full of varied routes, suitable for families as well as sportsmen in search of thrills.
From the quiet low gorges of Esparron-de-Verdon to the spectacular rapids of the Grand Canyon, each kayak route promises to live moments rich in emotions between absolute calm and adrenaline peaks.
Paddling you will evolve in a preserved setting where you will discover, secret coves, hidden caves and diverse fauna and flora .
Get ready to live a real kayak adventure in one of the most beautiful canyons in Europe and just minutes from the campsites Campasun of southern France!
The best kayak routes in the Gorges du Verdon
The Gorges du Verdon include a wide variety of kayak routes suitable for all levels of practice. Each of them allows you to discover this preserved natural site from a different angle. Here is a selection of the best kayak routes to experience in the Gorges du Verdon.
The lake of Sainte-Croix and its peaceful gorges
With 2,200 hectares, the vast lake of Sainte-Croix is an ideal place for beginners in kayaking, and is particularly suitable for families with children. You can paddle on calm waters to fully enjoy a kayak experience in the Gorges du Verdon pleasant and safe, especially for the youngest.
From the Galetas bridge or our campsite of the Eagle des Gorges du Verdon, you will climb the gorges for about 2 km which will lead you to magnificent views of the cliffs, waterfalls and surrounding wildlife.
At the same time peaceful and accessible to all, this itinerary allows you to delight yourself in the beauty of the landscapes of the Gorges du Verdon in a serene atmosphere and safe for the whole family.
The lower gorges: Esparron-de-Verdon to Quinson
Longer than the previous one, this kayak tour takes you on the calm waters of the low gorges, ideal for relaxation and exploration. It takes you through wild landscapes, where the fauna and flora of the Verdon are revealed in all their splendor. Allow about 4 to 5 hours to fully enjoy it.
Les gorges de Baudinard
Still not very popular, the gorges of Baudinard open the doors to places with a peaceful and wild atmosphere. wild and intimate. Accessible only by kayak, canoe or paddle, take this part of the Gorges du Verdon to explore secret caves and hidden waterfalls. This 3-hour adventure will take you through moss-covered walls and impressive rock formations. Also suitable for all levels, this course is ideal for beginners as well as for families with children.
The Grand Canyon: Adventurers’ Itinerary
For the thrill-seekers, here is the Grand Canyon of the Verdon! This kayak course in the Gorges du Verdon is quite demanding and will make you sail between rapids, waterfalls and other vertiginous descents. Reserved for experienced kayakers, it promises to live moments of pure thrill in the heart of the canyon. The perfect opportunity to test your limits in one of the most beautiful natural sites in Europe!
Selection of providers for an optimal kayak rental
To experience a kayak trip in the best conditions in the Gorges du Verdon, here is a selection of reliable providers that will allow you to fully enjoy this experience.
- Verdon Canoë Paddle: located in Esparron-de-Verdon, this professional offers a range of boats for all levels. You can choose between family outings or more sports, from 25 € for a half-day.
- Haute Provence Outdoor: based in Castellane and specialized in whitewater descents, this provider offers courses adapted to all with rates ranging from 50 to 85 € depending on the chosen itinerary.
- Aquattitude: located in Montpezat, this kayak rental service is ideal for you to discover the gorges of Baudinard. Free rental or guided tours, starting at 15 € for 3 hours.
- Leisure Adventure Kayak: in Quinson, Loisir Aventure Kayak offers flexible packages to live an immersion in the heart of the Gorges du Verdon à la carte, with rental kayaks from 8 € for one hour.
Practical tips for a successful kayak trip in the Gorges du Verdon
book in advance
In high season, the demand for kayak rentals in the Gorges du Verdon can be high. It is therefore strongly advised to book in advance. This will ensure you have a place on board a kayak but also avoid the long queues. So make sure you plan your kayak trip well to get the most out of your experience.
Prepare suitable equipment
Before going out on a kayak trip, don’t forget to bring water shoes, sunscreen and comfortable clothing suitable for the activity. Life jackets and equipment for paddling as well as storing your personal belongings will be provided by the provider!
Focus on mornings
To enjoy pleasant temperatures and a calmer environment, it is advisable to plan your kayak trip in the Gorges du Verdon early in the morning. You will avoid the intense heat of the afternoon and the influx of visitors, while enjoying a serene and peaceful atmosphere on the water.
respect nature
The Gorges du Verdon are a fragile and preserved natural ecosystem. So make sure you respect this environment by taking your waste with you and minimizing your impact. Do not disturb the local wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the place without leaving a trace of your passage.
Adapt your itinerary
The kayak routes in the Gorges du Verdon are of varying difficulty. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, consult the providers who will help you choose the route that best suits your level and preferences. They will also give you expert advice on how to safely navigate potential tricky passages during your kayak trip.
The Gorges du Verdon will allow you to live an unforgettable kayak experience, combining calm and thrills, in the heart of preserved natural landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert kayaker, there is an itinerary for everyone: from the calm waters of Lake Sainte-Croix to the dizzying rapids of the Grand Canyon!
To extend this immersion in the countryside, stay at the campsite Campasun Esparron-de-Verdon, where the serene atmosphere and the unspoilt environment of the site will perfectly complement your kayaking adventure in the Gorges du Verdon. You can even rent your canoe-kayak!
