The village of

Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

Close to Lac de Sainte-Croix

Like being on the shores of the Mediterranean, but with a view over Lake Sainte-Croix. Welcome to the perched village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, which watches over the lake and dam to which it gives its name. A land of pure emotions, discover an authentic Provencal village marked by its history, whispering tales of a rich past. The muleteers’ hiking trail climbs above the lake to reach the Valensole plateau, with its breathtaking views of lavender fields and the Gorges du Verdon. Situated in the heart of the Verdon Regional Nature Park , halfway between the Gorges de Baudinard on one side and the Gorges du Verdon on the other, walk to the rhythm of nature, breathe in the fresh air and let yourself be carried away by what the village of Sainte-Croix du Verdon has to tell you.

Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon Tourist Office

Getting there

Lac de Sainte-Croix

If you’re in the village of Sainte-Croix du Verdon, Lac de Sainte-Croix has never been so close. Now’s the time to go there and take a deep breath in the heart of a unique landscape, where nature expresses itself in complete freedom.

Its exciting history

Explore the historic remains of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and delve into the origins of the lake that bears its name. Perhaps you’ll discover some fascinating anecdotes about the impoundment of the Sainte-Croix dam.

Nearby Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Take advantage of your trip to Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon to continue your visit to the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages, Moustiers embodies the essence of Provence. A city of craftsmen to be discovered and rediscovered without moderation.

Intense Verdon

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Take a tour of the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

A charming oasis of history, nature and lakes

Perched at an altitude of 513 meters, the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon stands proudly above its eponymous lake, dominating the scene from its rocky promontory. Imagine strolling through its lavender-blue shuttered lanes, discovering its shady, flower-filled squares, its 16th-century church and the remains of its medieval castle that tell ancient tales. A place where each alley reveals the richness of a preserved past. Give yourself a break, choose a bench, settle down and let yourself be intoxicated by the sweetness of the moment and the view over the turquoise waters of the lake.

Swimming and hiking guaranteed

On the shores of Lac de Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, inviting beaches and shady coves reveal themselves, ready to sweep you away in a symphony of colors and reflections.

Located in the heart of the Verdon Regional Park, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is the ideal starting point for hiking. Take to the paths that venture into the Provencal garrigue, where the intoxicating scent of thyme, rosemary and wild thyme will accompany you throughout your walk.

Lac Sainte Croix Du Verdon Au Printemps Avec Vue Sur Le Village Ad04 Teddy Verneuil

The Valley Memory Museum

Learn more about the history of the village and lake of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

The“Culture, Loisirs et Patrimoine” (Culture, Leisure and Heritage) association has opened the doors of an exhibition retracing the history of the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and the impounding of the lake in 1973. Dive into the twists and turns of the past, exploring the narrow streets that were swallowed up by the waters of Lake Sainte-Croix 50 years ago. Through a rich collection of period documents, immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Verdon valley and its inhabitants, who lived according to the seasons before the waters of the lake shaped a new landscape. The opportunity to view period films offers total immersion in the daily life of a bygone era.

Imagine the village half a century ago, when Lac de Sainte-Croix was still just a project, and life flourished to the rhythm of the valley’s agriculture. This association takes you on a journey back in time through a captivating exhibition of old photographs and farming implements that bear witness to this now submerged existence. Don’t miss the scale model recreating the valley as it was before it was flooded, a work of art that awakens buried memories and reveals the charm of this place before its transformation.

We look forward to welcoming you to share these moments of nostalgia, emotion and discovery. Visit the “Mémoire de la Vallée” museum, a place where the past comes to life to illuminate our present.

Open from 01/07 to 31/08 every day from 3pm to 7pm.

A moment at Lac de Sainte-Croix

A breath of fresh air in the heart of the Verdon region

Sail the waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix in the heart of the Verdon Regional Nature Park. Spanning 2,200 hectares, this azure jewel ranks third among France’s largest lakes and provides a beautiful backdrop for anyone venturing onto its shores. If you love water sports, whether you’re in a canoe, kayak, paddle, pedalo or electric boat, let yourself be carried away by the tranquility of these waters, an experience that takes you back to the very essence of simplicity. Opening onto the Gorges du Verdon, the lake invites you to recharge your batteries in the face of nature’s raw beauty, where water and rock weave a thousand-year-old work of art. For a unique perspective, you can also contemplate the view of the Gorges du Verdon from the famous Galetas bridge in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

Looking for a refreshing break by the lake? Beaches, easily accessible by car, invite you to splash about in complete safety, with or without children. For those in search of peace and quiet, opt for Bauduen beach and its wild creeks, or let yourself be lulled by the song of the cicadas on Cadeno beach, where deckchairs are available. If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet, opt for Para Loù beach and its wild coves.

Looking for a sporting getaway? Discover the charms of Lac de Sainte-Croix on foot, kayak or horseback! Surrounded by green hills, forests and mountains, let yourself go and enjoy the present moment in an environment that calls for disconnection.

Canoeing in the Verdon

Cycling or Gravelling around Lake Sainte-Croix

Intense Verdon, a destination with the “Territoire Vélo” label

Let yourself be seduced by the appeal of the many cyclosportive cycling loops (road and gravel) and mountain bike itineraries that stretch around Lake Sainte Croix du Verdon. It’s an invitation to explore the diversity of the routes, to feel the beauty of the landscapes stretching out before you, and to discover the rich natural heritage that characterizes this destination. Whether you prefer mountain biking, cycling or gravel, Intense Verdon is proud to have been awarded the Territoire Vélo label by the Fédération Française de Cyclotourisme and the Espace Cyclosport label by the Fédération Française de Cyclisme.

Whether you’re with the family or a loved one, pedal your way along paths dotted with discoveries, laugh, chat and share… A real source of happiness awaits you! At the end of each cycling day, as the kilometers have been racked up, it’s time to relax. Take advantage of the last rays of sunshine for an aperitif by the lake, your eyes sparkling with stars and your head full of memories.

Cycling in the Verdon

Good to know

You can download the road and gravel bike map to find out more about the 19 touring bike routes, 5 gravel routes and all-inclusive breaks. You’ll find all the main information, such as times, distances and gradients, along with a brief presentation of the various points of interest along the way.

The House of Lavender

Discover Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and its lavender fields

When you think of Haute-Provence, the image of lavender fields as far as the eye can see can’t help but come to mind. You might think of the famous Valensole plateau near Gréoux-les-Bains, but did you know that Sainte-Croix du Verdon and its neighbor Saint-Jurs are also surrounded by lavender fields? If you’re venturing along the Routes de la Lavande, take the time to stop off at the “Maison du Lavandin”, ideally located at the exit of the Gorges du Verdon and just 5 minutes from Lake Sainte-Croix. Emerging as an authentic converted shed, surrounded by lavender and wheat fields, it invites you to a sensory discovery of the benefits of lavandin. On site, immerse yourself in the world of products from the farm of Marie France and Raymond Bourjac, a family committed to sharing the secrets of their essential oils, as well as those of this typical regional flower. An invitation to taste authenticity, in the benevolent shade of fragrant fields.

As you may already know, the best time to admire Haute-Provence in all its purple glory is from June to July.

Find out more about the Maison du Lavandin

Good to know

Lavender or lavandin? What's the difference?

In Provence, two main plant varieties are grown for their essential oils: true lavender, also known as fine lavender, and lavandin, a hybrid of true lavender and lavender aspic. Fine lavender, the noblest of lavenders, has had an AOC since 1981. It is characterized by a slender stem with a single cluster of flowers, and grows naturally at altitudes of between 500 and 1,500 meters. Lavandin, a larger, higher-yielding variety, is the result of a main crop and features a branched branch with three clusters of flowers. Unlike lavender, lavandin does not reproduce naturally, and its fragrance is lighter.

Peche Sur Le Lac De Sainte Croix En Embarcation

Peche Sur Les Bords Du Lac De Sainte Croix Min

Carnassial fishing on Lac de Sainte-Croix du Verdon

A sanctuary for anglers from all horizons

Immerse yourself in the exciting adventure of predator fishing on Lac de Sainte-Croix du Verdon! In an exceptional setting where the crystal-clear waters stretch as far as the eye can see, this emblematic Verdon lake no longer needs to prove its reputation. If you love fishing, the 2,200 hectares of turquoise waters become your sanctuary. An infinite tableau where every fishing technique is conceivable, whether from the shores of the lake or aboard an electric boat, gliding silently over the glistening surface.

As well as pike, pike-perch and perch, which are ready to delight the carnivorous enthusiast, there’s plenty to tempt the angler. Bluebait, roach and even a few mischievous and seductive tench invite themselves to the game, ready to titillate the lines of the most patient.

Would you like to be accompanied by a fishing instructor? Many expert fishing guides will be delighted to share their passion with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an amateur, these experienced guides will lead you to the best spots and nooks and crannies for the fishing technique you want to hone. Trusted partners to turn every moment on the water into an enriching and memorable experience.

Find out more about fishing regulations

Activities
Restaurants
Lodgings

Trottin Verdon Balade En Trotinette Electrique Autour Du Lac De Sainte Croix

The little portElectric boat trip on the lake

Rental of 4- and 7-seater electric boats (no license required), pedalos (5-seater with or without slide) and paddles.
Snack bar: hot and cold takeaway (lunch available on site). Shaded terrace.

Restaurant Le ComptoirAnd its panoramic view of Lac de Sainte-Croix

Since 2006, Le Comptoir has been like a big family giving you a warm welcome, where every moment becomes a beautiful story to be shared. Take a seat on the terrace and enjoy the panoramic view over Lac de Sainte-Croix. In the kitchen, Éva, a passionate chef, concocts gourmet dishes with a Provencal accent. She focuses on freshness, with fish, sea bream, mussels, fresh pasta and even the local white truffle. It’s like a feast in a corner of paradise.

Para Lou FarmGuest rooms, gîtes and charming caravans in Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

On the edge of the Gorges du Verdon, just 700 meters from the shores of Lake Sainte Croix du Verdon, nestles a haven of serenity. Between lavender-scented valleys and the shadows of truffle oaks, Laëtitia, Richard and Robin open the doors to an exceptional place where every moment is an invitation to discover. The warm welcome of this passionate family promises a memorable stay, punctuated by the magic of the surrounding countryside. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, they’ll be your friendly guides in this region of incomparable beauty.