La Palud sur Verdon

Last update on May 4, 2026

On the D952 road, between Castellane (25km) and Moustiers Sainte Marie (20km).

Discover La Palud-sur-Verdon, the village in the heart of the canyon

La Palud-sur-Verdon is one of the key villages for exploring the famous Gorges du Verdon, an impressive natural site and the largest canyon in Europe. Located in the heart of this spectacular landscape, the town is an ideal starting point for outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking, and whitewater sports.

The village is also known for its local products, ranging from trout and alpine lamb to lavender honey and truffles, offering a true immersion in Provençal culture.

Must-see attractions in La Palud-sur-Verdon

The Route des Crêtes is a must for anyone who wants a panoramic view of the Gorges du Verdon. This 23 km scenic route takes you past several viewpoints where you can admire breathtaking landscapes and, if you're lucky, spot griffon vultures in flight.

The Escalès cliff is one of the most famous rock climbing spots in the world, offering more than 1,500 routes, some reaching heights of over 200 meters. It is a place of pilgrimage for climbers, who come from all over the world to test their limits.

Don't miss the Ecomusée des Gorges du Verdon, located in an 18th-century castle, to discover the geological history, fauna, and flora of this unique site. The museum offers an enriching perspective on the canyon and its evolution over the centuries.

Leisure and activities in La Palud-sur-Verdon

La Palud-sur-Verdon is a real playground for thrill seekers. If you're into white water sports, you can try rafting, kayaking, hydrospeed, or even canyoning in the turquoise waters of the Verdon. For a gentler adventure, water hiking allows you to explore the canyon while swimming in its cool, crystal-clear waters.

For hikers, the Blanc-Martel trail is one of the most famous hikes, offering spectacular views of the canyon and cliffs. It passes through the Tunnel du Martel, a unique experience for hiking enthusiasts.

Air sports are not to be missed in La Palud, with numerous sites for paragliding and hang gliding, allowing you to fly over the Grand Canyon and admire the landscape from a different angle.

What to see

18th-century castle. 13th-century belltower.

Things to do

Hiking or mountain biking : 4 canyon trails, 4 ridge trails, 3 trails around the village, 3 marked for mountain biking.
Climbing : easy up to levels 5 to 8b and about 100 easy trails in the Escales cliffs.
White water : kayak hydrospeed, rafting (river technics III to IV.)
Horseback riding : outings of 3 or 2 days in the mountains, plateaus, and crests.
Hang gliding, paragliding : many sites for taking off.
Bungee jumping : at the Artuby Bridge, 182 m. high !

Hotels

Hotel & Spa des Gorges du Verdon ★★★★

At the top of a hill, facing the village with stunning views, hotel restaurant with 30 rooms and 3 suites with spa Cinq Mondes approved, heated pool, hammam, jacuzzi, fitness. Area multi games, basketball, beach tennis ...

190€ - 300€

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Bed and breakfast

Chalet Le Refuge

Bed & breakfast - Over night guest rooms (hikers) up to 20 pers.
Chalet for 6/10 pers - Teepi 6/8 pers

55€ - 65€

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Vacation rentals

Chalet Le Refuge

Groups & overnight gite for 20 persons
Chalet 6 to 10 persons - Tipi 6 to 8 persons

364€ - 490€

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Campsites

Camping Terra Verdon ★★★★

Castellane (Verdon) | Digne : 50 km - Grasse : 50 km

Ciela village 4* 6 ha campsite with spectacular mountain views
Mobile-home rentals for 4 to 8 people
Heated and covered swimming pool

135 / 162

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Accommodation

Bed and breakfast.
Vacation rentals.
Hotels.

Your questions about La Palud-sur-Verdon

We have received several enquiries about La Palud. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.

What to do and see in La Palud-sur-Verdon?

La Palud-sur-Verdon is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can explore the Gorges du Verdon, go hiking or mountain biking, or even try your hand at canyoning. The Blanc-Martel trail and the Escalès cliff are must-see attractions for fans of spectacular scenery and rock climbing.

Where is La Palud-sur-Verdon?

La Palud-sur-Verdon is located in the Verdon Regional Natural Park, 25 km from Castellane and 20 km from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, in the heart of Europe's largest canyon.

Where to eat in La Palud-sur-Verdon?

The crêperie Les Tilleuls is the perfect place for simple, tasty cuisine. The Auberge Lou Cafetié offers typical Provençal cuisine with a beautiful terrace, and if you are looking for a more panoramic setting, the restaurant at the Hôtel des Gorges du Verdon offers a splendid view of the mountains and the canyon.

What are the market hours in La Palud-sur-Verdon?

The local market in La Palud-sur-Verdon takes place every Sunday morning from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the village's main square. You'll find fresh local products, including fruit, vegetables, cheese, and artisanal pastries.

Where can I park in La Palud-sur-Verdon?

Parking in La Palud-sur-Verdon is easy with several free car parks around the village center. The Sainte-Croix lake car park is a good option for those who want to enjoy water sports. There is also a car park at the castle for those who wish to visit the Gorges du Verdon Ecomuseum.