Aiguines

Perched on the edge of the spectacular Gorges du Verdon, Aiguines is a picture-perfect Provençal village that feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. With its medieval château, terracotta rooftops, and jaw-dropping views of the turquoise Verdon River, this is a place where you can soak up authentic French village life while being just minutes from some of Europe’s most dramatic natural scenery.

Highlights & What to See

• Château d’Aiguines – This 12th-century fortress-turned-museum houses a fascinating collection of traditional Provençal crafts, including santons (clay figurines), and offers panoramic views over the lake and gorges.
• Lac de Sainte-Croix – The stunning emerald-green reservoir at the foot of the village is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Hire a boat and explore hidden coves.
• Gorges du Verdon – Europe’s answer to the Grand Canyon. Drive the scenic Route des Crêtes for vertiginous viewpoints, or hike the Sentier de l’Imbut for a closer encounter with the river.
• Village promenade – Wander the narrow, flower-lined streets, stop at the weekly market (Wednesday mornings) for local honey and lavender, and sip a pastis at a café on the Place de la Mairie.
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie – Just 10 minutes away, this village is famous for its star-topped chapel and exquisite faïence pottery – a must for souvenir hunters.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers find that two to three days in Aiguines strikes the perfect balance. Spend the first day exploring the village and château, then dedicate a full day to the Gorges du Verdon – either by car with plenty of photo stops, or by hiring a kayak to paddle through the canyon. If you’re a hiker, add an extra day to tackle the longer trails. Aiguines also works well as a one-night stop on a self-drive itinerary between the Luberon and the French Riviera.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie – A short drive away, this iconic village is famous for its pottery and dramatic setting beneath a rocky cliff.
• Lac de Sainte-Croix – The lake itself is a hub for water sports and picnicking; combine a morning on the water with an afternoon in Aiguines.
• Riez – A lesser-known Roman town with ancient columns, a baptistery, and a lively Saturday market – great for a cultural detour.
• Valensole Plateau – In June and July, this area erupts in endless fields of purple lavender. It’s about 30 minutes away and makes for an unforgettable photo stop.
• Gorges du Verdon – The gorges themselves offer countless viewpoints, hiking trails, and river activities; base yourself in Aiguines to explore them at leisure.

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