Traveling with SIX Kids - Verdon Gorge

VERDON GORGE, FRANCE - EUROPEAN ROAD TRIP DAY 30

So Daniel (Dad) had kept this location a secret from us for the entire journey because he wanted it to be a complete surprise... and what a surprise it was!

Having traveled throughout the world, we've seen our fair share of nice lakes, grand canyons and stunning rivers before, but the combination of all three in one place made this place simply incomparable in beauty.

SEE TOP TIPS FOR VERDON GORGE BELOW

Getting There

We left our hotel in Frejus at 5 AM so that we could get to this place before it gets busy (and it REALLY gets busy!) but we weren't disappointed. If you arrive before 9 AM, you get the entire place to yourself, giving you some amazing photo opportunities and views of the gorge unspoiled and in it's natural beauty.

The drive itself was incredible, coming through the hills whilst it is still dark, seeing old scenic towns lit with street lights still lit up in their amazing grandeur. We even past some wild boar by the side of the road making it even more exciting for children.

Paddle Boats

There are a quite a lot of paddle boat rental companies, but they still sell out fast in peak season. So get there early if you don't want to be disappointed, or be prepared to wait.

Having too many kids for one paddle boat, we rented two and set off through the gorge with the kids having the time of their lives enjoying the boat, the green waters, the little waterfalls, and the remarkable gorge.

A good distance up the river, there is a certain point which boats are no longer able to venture past, but there is a little 'beach' here for you to get out, take some photos, and have a play in the shallower water.

The Lake

Lac de Sainte-Croix is vast, so even though the gorge itself can get crowded, there are parking points most of the way around the Lake, and you can easily find a quiet spot to enjoy.

The Lake is pleasant to swim in and we struggled pulling our kids away when it was time to leave.

Facilities

There are free toilets at the parking on both sides of the gorge, and a restaurant with little souvenir and gift shop.

Parking is free, but there are height limits, so if you're coming in a camper van, double check which parking location is good before you go.

Accommodation Nearby

The location is really out there in the middle of the hills in a national park, so accommodation is limited. There is accommodation nearby if you're willing to search though, but for a family of our size, it was simply too much and we ended up staying roughly two hours away.

Is It Worth It?

This place is AMAZING for couples and families alike. If you're in the area, or even if you're a few hours out, this place is a MUST-SEE, and you should make every effort to go!

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TOP TIP

• ARRIVE EARLY—Get there before 9 AM and you'll have the entire gorge to yourself!
• BOAT OPENING TIMES—The earliest boat rentals open at 9 AM. Get on one at that time, and you'll be the only ones in the gorge.
• BOATS RUN OUT—There are a limited number of boats, so if you get there after 10 AM, be prepared to wait.
• RECOMMENDATION—We used Basic Star for our boat rental. There is a car park directly by it, and they were very friendly and helpful. (We are not affiliated with this company in any way. Just happy customers.)
• CASH OR CARD—Some boat rental only take cash... so be prepared.