The Villages of Verdon: Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon
Where to go in the Verdon Gorges? Which village to visit? Where to swim? Let us guide you. Today, we’re taking you to explore the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
Aux alentours
Where is Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon located?
Nestled on a rocky promontory overlooking the valley since the Middle Ages, the village offers its visitors one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Lake Sainte-Croix. Less than 15 minutes from the campsite towards Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, and 30 minutes from the famous Verdon Gorges, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is also known for its beaches.
What to do in Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon?
- Stroll through the shaded alleys of the old village. Although the village has retained little of its ancient heritage, it keeps all the charm of typical Provençal villages. Perched more than 100 meters above Lake Sainte-Croix, you will discover some magnificent panoramic viewpoints.
- Visit the nautical base. Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon has one of the most beautiful nautical bases on Lake Sainte-Croix. From there, you can rent pedal boats for an afternoon of family fun, or explore the lake by canoe or sailboat.
- Enjoy the shaded beaches at the foot of the village. A large parking lot (paid in summer) awaits you at the bottom of the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, from which you can access very pleasant sunny beaches.
- The Provençal market every Tuesday morning in summer.
A Village Witness to the Birth of Lake Sainte-Croix
Spared by the rising waters after the construction of the Sainte-Croix Dam in 1974, the village preserves the memory of a valley once dominated by wheat and barley cultivation, as well as olive trees and vineyards.
Where to Eat in the Village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon?
You will find several good places to dine in the village.
- Les Terrasses du Lac: The restaurant serves traditional French cuisine in two dining rooms and two terraces with panoramic views of the lake.
- L'Actuel: Seasonal French menu featuring Mediterranean and lake-based products, with a panoramic terrace.
- Le Comptoire: Discover traditional Provençal cuisine, with meats and fish on the menu, such as cod with aioli or Manosque lamb shoulder. They also offer salads, mussels and fries, bruschettas—something to satisfy the whole family.