Top 6 Natural Monuments around Aups

The region around Aups boasts several remarkable natural monuments. You can explore the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon, often called Europe's deepest canyon, known for its striking turquoise-green river and dramatic limestone cliffs. Another highlight is the serene Waterfall — Cascade de Sillans, offering refreshing mist and beautiful turquoise waters at its base. Don't miss the unique The Tuff Rock, a natural monument with an interesting tufa structure and landscaped gardens below.

Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Villecroze Floral Park, Troglodyte Caves and Waterfall offers an engaging experience with its multi-level caves and a 35-meter-high waterfall. The village of Cotignac, with its impressive 80-meter-high rock wall and carved rock dwellings, is also considered family-friendly and a beautiful place to visit.

The area around Aups is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various activities such as kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, and rafting on the turquoise waters of the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix. For those who prefer land-based activities, there are numerous hiking and cycling opportunities. You can find detailed routes for hiking around Aups, gravel biking, and road cycling, including routes that pass by these natural wonders.

Absolutely. The Grottes de Villecroze (part of the Villecroze Floral Park) are a fascinating blend of natural geological formations and human history, having been occupied since prehistoric times and serving as a refuge for Benedictine monks. Additionally, the village of Cotignac is known for its unique rock dwellings carved into an 80-meter-high cliff, offering a glimpse into ancient human settlements.

The region is beautiful year-round, but the spring and autumn months (April-June and September-October) generally offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring. During these times, the temperatures are milder, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be very popular and crowded, especially at major sites like the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix.

Yes, hiking is a popular activity. The Gorges du Verdon offers challenging routes like the Sentier de Martel, which follows the river, as well as more accessible paths. You can find various hiking routes around Aups, ranging from easy to moderate, such as the 'Sainte-Madeleine Cave – Historic Centre of Aups loop' or the 'Historic Centre of Aups – Collegiate Church of St Pancras loop'.

The Gorges du Verdon is renowned as Europe's deepest canyon, carved by the Verdon River. Its most distinguishing feature is the striking turquoise-green color of the water, a result of dissolved minerals. The gorge stretches approximately 25 kilometers and reaches depths of up to 700 meters, with impressive limestone walls that are a haven for rock climbers and offer breathtaking scenic drives like the Corniche Sublime.

The Lac de Sainte-Croix is a large artificial lake located at the end of the Gorges du Verdon, known for its clear, turquoise waters. It's the largest lake in the Verdon Regional Natural Park. Petrol-engine boats are prohibited, ensuring pristine water quality. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and pedal boating, especially near the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon at Pont du Galetas. The surrounding area also features hiking trails and charming villages.

The Tombeau de la Lauve is a unique block tomb located on the Lauve plateau near Salernes. It's an ancient sepulchral chamber, approximately circular in shape, made of limestone blocks. This monument is significant for its archaeological value, having contained fragmented burned bones and various artifacts, providing insights into prehistoric burial practices in Provence.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, particularly the vibrant turquoise waters of the waterfalls and lakes, and the dramatic landscapes of the gorges. The refreshing air and water mist at places like the Waterfall — Cascade de Sillans are often highlighted. Many also appreciate the blend of natural wonders with historical elements, such as the ancient rock dwellings in Cotignac and the troglodytic caves of Villecroze.

Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. For the Gorges du Verdon, driving along the scenic rim roads like the Corniche Sublime offers spectacular vistas. At the Waterfall — Cascade de Sillans, there are dedicated viewing platforms that provide great perspectives of the falls. Many hiking trails around Lac de Sainte-Croix also offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills.