The most beautiful viewpoints in the Verdon
The Viewpoints of the Verdon are among the most spectacular in Europe. The continent's largest canyon offers breathtaking panoramas from its viewpoints and footpaths, where limestone cliffs and turquoise waters intermingle. Each stop offers a unique natural spectacle.
1 Notre-Dame du Roc (Castellane)
Overlooking the the village of Castellane, the hilltop chapel of Notre-Dame du Roc is a must-see viewpoint. After a climb of around thirty minutes, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view of the Verdon Valley, the village and the surrounding mountains.
2. Point Sublime (Rougon)
Point Sublime is without doubt the most famous of the Viewpoints of the Verdon. IndeedFrom here, you can admire the Samson Corridor and the entrance to the Grand Canyon.
3. Belvédère de la Carelle (Route des Crêtes, La Palud-sur-Verdon)
Located on the Route des Crêtes, the Carelle lookout is an impressive sight. A secure platform offers a breathtaking view of the cliffs. SoYou can contemplate the grandeur of the canyon in complete safety.
In summary — Verdon Gorge Viewpoints
The Gorges du Verdon offer some of the most spectacular panoramic views in Europe. Major viewpoints accessible from Castellane: Notre-Dame du Roc, Point Sublime in Rougon, the viewpoints along the Route des Crêtes, the Artuby Bridge, and Lake Sainte-Croix. The Campsite La Ferme de Castellane (3 stars) is situated at the entrance to the gorges, on the Route Napoléon. Heated swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, a range of accommodation options. Rated 4.8/5 on Google (over 1,000 reviews) and 9.2/10 on Booking.com (1,729 reviews), No. 1 in Castellane on Tripadvisor. Bookings on camping-la-ferme.com or on 04 92 83 67 77.
4. Escales lookout (La Palud-sur-Verdon)
This viewpoint overlooks the Escales cliffs, a mecca for rock climbers. In additionWith a view over the turquoise waters of the Verdon.
5. Route des Crêtes (24 km loop, La Palud)
The Route des Crêtes is a 24km panoramic loop. HoweverIt may be closed if there is strong wind or snow. Always check road conditions before setting off.
There are around fifteen lookouts along the loop. SoYou can multiply the number of stops you make to change your perspective. La Carelle and L'Escales are among the most impressive.
6. Galetas lookout (Aiguines)
At the entrance to the Lac de Sainte-CroixThis panoramic view allows you to admire the place where the Verdon flows into the lake. The turquoise waters and colourful pedal boats create a picture postcard atmosphere.
7. Belvedere at Mayreste (left bank, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie)
Less crowded than the major sites, the Mayreste lookout is the perfect place to enjoy a moment of peace and quiet. In additionIt offers breathtaking views over a winding section of the canyon.
8. Balcons de la Mescla (right bank, Trigance)
This impressive viewpoint is where two rivers meet: the Verdon and the Artuby. SoThe view is unique and spectacular.
9. Col d'Illoire (left bank, Aiguines)
At an altitude of over 960 m, this breathtaking viewpoint dominates the gorges and offers a panoramic view of the meandering Verdon.
10. Panoramic paths (Blanc-Martel, Imbut, Bastidon)
For hiking enthusiasts, the Verdon's emblematic trails offer their own panoramic views. The trail Blanc-Martel in particular crosses the canyon and offers breathtaking views.
The Viewpoints of the Verdon are an invitation to marvel. Whether it's From a viewpoint accessible by car or after a demanding hike, each panorama reveals a unique face of the canyon.
✦ For a close-up experiencestay at the Campsite La Ferme de Castellane Heated swimming pool, spa and a variety of accommodation just a stone's throw from the panoramic views of the Verdon.
Frequently asked questions about the viewpoints in the Gorges du Verdon
What is the most beautiful viewpoint in the Gorges du Verdon?
The Point Sublime, in Rougon, remains the most famous: it offers a direct view of the Couloir Samson and the entrance to the Grand Canyon. But each viewpoint has its own unique character — the Balcons de la Mescla for the confluence of the rivers, the Galetas for the entrance to Lake Sainte-Croix, and Mayreste for its tranquillity. The best way to enjoy them is to visit several in succession along the Route des Crêtes.
Is it possible to explore the views of the Verdon with the family without going on a hike?
Yes. Most of the viewpoints can be reached by car, followed by a short walk from the car park: Point Sublime, Carelle, Escalès, Galetas, Mayreste, Balcons de la Mescla and Col d’Illoire. Only Notre-Dame du Roc involves a proper climb (about 30 minutes from Castellane, an easy path). Please take care with children: not all viewing platforms are fitted with handrails.
How long should I allow for a trip along the Route des Crêtes?
Allow several hours, or even half a day, to enjoy its fifteen viewing points, including stops for photos. This 24 km panoramic loop may be closed in the event of strong winds or snow: always check the conditions before setting off.
Is Le Point Sublime a long way from Camping La Ferme de Castellane?
No, it’s about a 30-minute drive. The campsite, situated at the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon on the Route Napoléon, is a convenient base from which to explore all the viewpoints, whether you’re heading towards Rougon or La Palud-sur-Verdon.
Do the viewing points lead to the Blanc-Martel footpath?
Yes, there are several panoramic viewpoints along the Blanc-Martel trail, which crosses the canyon between the Chalets de la Palud and the Point Sublime. You should therefore expect a proper hike lasting several hours rather than just a quick stop by car: find all the practical details in our guide dedicated to the Blanc-Martel path.
Does it take several days to see all the viewpoints in the Gorges du Verdon?
No, but you have to make some choices: the viewing points on the right bank (Carelle, Escalès, Balcons de la Mescla) and on the left bank (Galetas, Mayreste, Col d’Illoire) each take half a day to a full day to visit. A 3–4-night stay at Camping La Ferme de Castellane gives you plenty of time to explore both banks, alternating with a dip in the heated swimming pool and a visit to the spa to relax between outings.