Classified as a “city of character” at the gates of the Verdon gorges, Castellane will charm those curious about culture as well as nature lovers, young and old. Thus, you will be able to admire the intimate alleys of a typical village of Haute-Provence. Let yourself be amazed by the grandiose nature of the Verdon Regional Natural Park. Then go cool off in the secret creeks of the superb lake of Castillon.
Some ideas of activities to do in the Verdon during your hike
Here are some ideas of activities to book before or after your hike in Castellane.
– Book a guide for the Imbut Trail
– Book a guide for the Martel White Trail
– Enjoy an evening of astronomy on the shores of Lake St. Croix and sleep on site
– Watch the film Verdon Secret in 3D on a giant screen
What’s not to be missed in Castellane?
First of all, a simple stroll in Castellane is a beautiful dive into the spirit of Provence. Indeed, the walls of its alleys are decorated with the colors so typical of this region. In addition, its carefully preserved heritage offers the chance to admire the three listed monuments that once surrounded the ramparts. St Victor’s Church, the Clock Tower and the Pentagonal Tower can be admired during leisurely strolls.
And to satisfy the curiosity of young and old alike, why not embark on a treasure hunt with the Maison Nature and Patrimoines? This is a great opportunity to discover the city while having fun!
Located in the center of the village, the Maison Nature and Patrimoines opens its doors from April to October. It will help you discover the natural and cultural riches of the Castellane and Moyen Verdon area. There are exhibitions and original activities for young and old alike. It also houses the “Sirens and Fossils” museum, whose name testifies to the incredible discoveries that will delight visitors. Go and have a look on its antastic objects, animal sculptures, photographs, video films and illustrated panels. You will plunge into geological times, the mysteries of legends and antiquity.
What to do around Lake Castillon?
For the sportsmen, the three leisure centres of the lake of Castillon abound with offers of river rafting, canoeing and canyoning. A great opportunity to live an intense experience on the white waters of the Verdon, with friends or family! In order to know more about these activities, go and have a look on our booking pages. You will be available to check the availibility of our guides for a large range of activities for the family.
Should you like to relax after the effort in a splendid setting, or cool off when the sun of Provence is too intense ? Should you siply enjoy lazing around, the lake’s surroundings have several pretty supervised beaches for a safe swim. Moreover, this still well-preserved wild space also hides small secret creeks. The amateurs of peace and quiet will be able to enjoy the lake in all tranquility.
Where to find the most beautiful viewpoints?
It is almost impossible not to go and enjoy the breathtaking view at the top of the “Roc”. The top of this majestic limestone block overlooking the village is easily accessible from Castellane. A thirty-minute walk on a family trail will take you there. You will be amply rewarded for your efforts with an incredible 360° view of the gorges, a plunging glimpse of the Verdon’s eddies and the emerald colours of the lake of Castillon. At the top, an orientation table awaits you. You will also discover the chapel Notre Dame du Roc, dating from the 13th century, which rewards courageous pilgrims by opening its doors at any time of the day or night!
For walking enthusiasts, many other trails start from Castellane. Most of them are accessible to children and adults alike, . For your family with young children, you can create incredible memories for them with Les Ânes du Verdon, who offer you the chance to discover Castellane by donkey crossing paths!
You can also enjoy a vertiginous view of the Verdon from the dam that formed the lake of Castillon. You will access by car by the road that borders the lake. This impressive building is adorned with the largest sundial in the world. The Maison Nature and Patrimoine offers an exhibition rich in testimonies, objects, photographs and archival documents retracing this work of national scope which has helped to draw the attention of the general public to this little gem that is the village of Castellane.
Where to enjoy good local products?
A visit to D’Aqui e d’Eila will allow you to discover, in the shade of their pretty terrace, delicious olive groves, delicacies and other specialties that smell the sweetness of life in this region. This artisanal canning workshop will give you the opportunity to bring back some sunshine in a can in your luggage!
The shop of Les Ruchers Apijouvence will allow you to find the scents of the trees and flowers that you will have been able to discover through your walks. This family business has been producing for more than forty years a honey that respects nature and the well-being of bees that feed on the Mediterranean and wild flora of the Verdon Natural Park and more widely of Provence.
