The Verdon is a beautiful region in the south of France that offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages and experience levels. Family sports activities but not only.
Indeed, the Verdon is an exceptional region that offers a multitude of activities throughout the year. The seasons greatly influence the activities you can do, but the Verdon always offers a variety of things to do in any season.
Whether you enjoy hiking, climbing, water sports, or just looking for a relaxing time in nature, there is something for you! In this article, we will explore the various outdoor activities you can do in the Verdon according to the different seasons of the year.
Sports activities practiced in the Verdon during the year
Spring
Spring is an ideal season for hiking in the Verdon. The temperatures are mild, the flowers are starting to bloom and the waterfalls are still abundant. This is the time to book your white water sports activities! There are also many hikes to do in the area. Ranging from simple family walks to more challenging routes for experienced hikers. The trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding gorges, lakes and mountains. The most popular hiking trails in the Verdon include the Sentier Blanc-Martel, the Sentier de l’Imbut and the Sentier des Cavaliers.
Many of the trails are also accessible to mountain bikes, but electrically assisted bikes will have an easier time of it.
Summer
Summer in the Verdon is warm and sunny, offering perfect conditions for water sports. Popular activities include kayaking, canoeing, paddling and swimming in the clear, refreshing waters of the Verdon. Many water sports are available on the lakes of the Verdon. Notably the Lac de Sainte-Croix, the second largest man-made lake in France. Visitors can also rent motor boats or pedal boats to explore the calm and peaceful waters of the Verdon.
The region is also known for paragliding. Skydiving and hang gliding also offer incredible views of the gorges.
Autumn
Fall is a great season for more relaxing outdoor activities. Temperatures are cooler, the fall colors offer a breathtaking landscape from October on. Also, there is less traffic. Popular activities include fishing, mushroom picking, hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can take advantage of the less traveled hiking trails to explore the mountain scenery, lakes and rivers of the area. Fishermen can take to the rivers and lakes to fish for trout and carp. While mushroom pickers can discover local varieties such as ceps, chanterelles and girolles.
Winter
Winter in the Verdon can be very cold. But it is also a wonderful season to discover the region in a different light. Popular activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and dog sledding. The mountains offer snowy landscapes and the lakes are frozen, providing unique opportunities for winter outdoor activities. The closest ski resorts are La Foux d’Allos, Val d’Allos and Praloup via Barcelonette.
For the following, we have chosen to focus on a particular audience among several. We will focus on family sports activities in the Verdon.
Family sports activities
Le Verdon is a great place to spend time with your family. The activities offered are suitable for all ages and levels.
For families, it is perfectly possible to discover the Verdon gorges by rafting, canoeing or kayaking. Swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Sainte-Croix lake is also very popular. As for the younger ones, they can also enjoy pedal boat or electric boat rides on the lake.
Hiking trails such as the Sentier Blanc-Martel are also suitable for families. For the younger ones, what a joy to enjoy nature and discover the magnificent landscapes of the region.
Families can also enjoy the region by bike. Bicycle rentals are available in nearby towns. In addition, there are many well-maintained bike paths and mountain bike trails. Young people can enjoy bike rides on the roads less traveled, while older children can discover the most winding and spectacular roads.
More information here.