
The Route des Crêtes offers spectacular views of the Gorges du Verdon, a deep, steep canyon formed by the Verdon River. This road winds its way through mountains and cliffs, offering travellers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape.
The road was laid out at the beginning of the 20th century mainly for tourist purposes. It has been designed to allow visitors to admire the breathtaking scenery of the Gorges du Verdon, while facilitating access to this region. Building the road was a technical challenge due to the steep topography and steep slopes of the gorge.
The Route des Crêtes du Verdon was also a strategic location during the Second World War. In 1944, it was the scene of fighting between German troops and Allied forces. Remnants of this era, such as bunkers and firing positions, can still be seen along the road.
The Route des Crêtes du Verdon invites you on an unforgettable adventure through the Gorges du Verdon, one of the world’s most spectacular canyons.
This legendary route combines the raw beauty of the landscape with the comfort of exploration by bike or car. Immerse yourself in the majesty of the canyon shaped by the Verdon River, where every bend reveals vertiginous rock faces and emerald waters.
Start off between La Palud-sur-Verdon and Castellane, savour its charm, then embark on a journey discovering new panoramas at every turn.
Whether you’re a cyclist looking for adventure or a traveler looking for tranquility, this route offers a memorable experience. Lookouts dot the route, offering spectacular views to capture unforgettable memories.
Get ready for an extraordinary vacation, where nature, excitement and exploration await you.
The road is open from late March to mid-November.
The central section is one-way.
To discover it in its entirety, it’s imperative to drive clockwise.
So from the Auberge des Crêtes to La Palud-sur-Verdon.
Fifteen lookouts line the route. We’ve decided to present some of the most remarkable.
For a more leisurely, eco-friendly way of discovering the area, Verdon-e-bike can rent you an electrically-assisted bicycle.
Book your discovery.
Discover an exceptional cycling experience along the Route des Crêtes in the Gorges du Verdon thanks to the ” cols réservés aux cyclistes ” operation.
This initiative proposed by the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence département offers you the chance to pedal along this legendary route.
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Gorges du Verdon, with towering cliffs and breathtaking panoramas at every turn. Reserve the date now for an unforgettable cycling adventure that combines effort and breathtaking scenery.
Twice a summer, the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department reserves the Route des Crêtes du Verdon for cyclists.
For 2023, the road will be closed, for the second time, on Friday September 22 from 9am to 12pm.
Take the opportunity to make several rounds.
You’ll discover new panoramas at every turn.
Other passes in the department :
Col de Puimichel near Malijai
Col du Fanget (1459 m) Seyne
Col du Corobin (1211 m) Digne-les-Bains
Col d’Allos (2247 m)