FR26.14 Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

After a couple of days in Aix-en-Provence, we felt the need to escape back into the countryside. There was still plenty left on our list and we decided that what we really wanted was mountains, a lake and some good walks.

The answer?

Lac de Sainte-Croix and the surrounding area.

It’s one of the larger lakes in the region, but that’s not really what makes it special. That honour goes to its turquoise, crystal-clear water and the fact that it is fed by the Verdon River. On top of that, the famous Gorges du Verdon are right next door.

We decided to split the experience into two parts. First, we would stay at a very quiet campsite on the northern shore. Afterwards, we would move to a proper campsite with all the bells and whistles, including direct access to the lake.

On our way to the first campsite we already passed a number of lavender fields. They weren’t quite in full bloom yet, but they were still lovely to look at.

When we asked the campsite owner whether he spoke any English, the answer was a very decisive:

“No.”

So we resorted to our highly skilled sign language while Kathrin sprinkled in the occasional sophisticated-sounding French word.

Check-in complete!

We set up shop and walked down to the lake and soaked in the view. And what a view it was! I have to be honest the water looked so tempting I really wanted to jump in right away!

The way back up to the campsite was way less appealing in 32°C, but we survived and rewared us with a nice shower.

We enjoyed a wonderfully quiet night and the next couple of days would just be awesome!