Nestled under the lavender plateau of Valensole, and overlooking the eponymous lake with its turquoise waters, is the beautiful village of Esparron-de-Verdon. Rich of its Provençal charms, its historical heritage and the abundant nature which surrounds it, this small perched village is a must-see of the Verdon Park. Indeed, whether you are a history buff, a lover of the Provencal atmosphere, or a sportsman in search of authentic sensations, you will find your happiness in Esparron-de-Verdon.
What to do in Esparron-de-Verdon ?
Surrounded by an enchanting nature and with a long history, the village of Esparron-de-Verdon has built its own character. Thus, its atmosphere will wonderfully complete your visit of the Gorges du Verdon, and its location is ideal for a stay with varied activities
The charm of a village in Provence
Who doesn’t appreciate a stroll through the cobbled streets of the old Provencal villages? With its pink tiles, its almost permanent sunshine and its majestic castle, the village of Esparron-de-Verdon will delight all lovers of this region. Let yourself be carried away by the scents of the local products on display every Tuesday and Friday morning at the village market. However, for an even more intense olfactory dive, you can visit the Valensole plateau. Depending on the time of year, a walk in the lavender fields will delight your eyes, your nose, but also your ears. The buzzing of the bees and the song of the cicadas are not the sunniest music?
The remarkable historical heritage of Esparron-de-Verdon
Crowning the small village, the castle of Esparron-de-Verdon is a jewel of medieval times. In the 13th century, it consisted solely of a dungeon built to monitor the Verdon and collect passing taxes. Over the centuries, it has been extended with the addition of the main building and a splendid Renaissance style façade. Passed on from generation to generation of the Castellane family, lords of Esparron-de-Verdon in the Middle Ages, it has been beautifully maintained and renovated. Its current owners offer prestigious guest rooms for a stay steeped in history.
The rest of the village is divided into three parts. Indeed, under the castle, the oldest part of Esparron-de-Verdon surrounds the church of Saint-André dating from the 12th century. Its superb campanile built in the 18th century is just next to it. Then, the district built around the transhumance path constitutes the second part of the village. This area is a relic of the time when the village lived from the passage of sheep. Finally the third part of Esparron-de-Verdon, the new district where you will find many services to make the most of your stay.
The lake of Esparron, the “Pearl of the Verdon”
More wild than the famous lake of Sainte-Croix, the lake of Esparron is a green setting with turquoise waters. It offers a soothing swimming environment and a privileged observatory of the local fauna and flora. However, one can also find many sports activities and even play explorers through the Basses Gorges. For more information on this subject, please visit our page dedicated to the lake of Esparron.
Numerous trails, including the GR4, allow you to explore around the lake and the Basses Gorges du Verdon, upstream from the village. The Garde-Canal trail, for example, overlooks the lake and leads to its hidden creeks. This walk follows the path that used to watch over the old Verdon canal. You can also extend this exploration with the Basses Gorges trail. Indeed, this hike between the limestone cliffs, will lead you to mysterious caves and on splendid plateaus.
Where to eat in Esparron-de-Verdon ?
You can’t visit a real Provencal village like Esparron-de-Verdon without tasting the flavors of the country with pink tiles. So here are our tips to put some sunshine in your plate, your picnic or your suitcase!
Where to find authentic Provencal products around Esparron-de-Verdon?
Between Valensole and Esparron-de-Verdon, in Allemagne-en-Provence, is the Maison des Produits du Verdon. You will find there all the most refined and emblematic products of this region. From olive oil to tapenade, including herbs, soaps and, of course, lavender in all its forms. There is in this small shop all that it is necessary to make a success of your picnics, to bring back the sun in your luggage, but also to learn about it and to be entertained. You will find a nice selection of books on the region and novels.
Where to eat on the go?
Open from April, the Buvette du Lac welcomes you on the banks of the Verdon. A simple and complete menu, well-prepared dishes and a friendly boss are waiting for you to enjoy yourself while admiring the turquoise waters of the Verdon. For a refreshing break under the Provencal sun, try the Fournil. Indeed, in the heart of the village of Esparron-de-Verdon, this small establishment proposes delicious and generous Italian ice creams. Moreover, for a quick lunch, you can buy sandwiches prepared on demand with fresh products and a very friendly welcome..
Where to eat on a terrace?
To rest your legs after the long walks through the streets of the village, you can take a break at the Bistrot. Indeed, its sunny terrace is ideal to enjoy an ice cream, or to sip a cold drink. Its restaurant also offers a varied menu.
Where to have a drink in a nice place with a view?
The Paddle Art Café in Esparron de Verdon offers a superb setting with its terraces overlooking the castle and the village. Pauline and Franck welcome you to enjoy an ice cream, a smoothie or an iced coffee in this magical place. The idea of this concept store is to gather artistic creations on the themes of water and vacations. Several artists are exposed and offer jewelry, clothing and even Paddle Design boards! We can’t advise you enough to visit this magical place that smells like vacations.
Your picnic on the water with the Paddle Art Café
Did you know that you can now order your picnic when you reserve your electric boat?
Our partner, Paddle Art Café, concocts tasty meal trays using fresh, local produce. You can reserve your meal by following this link.
