France Guide
Provence
The Gorges du Verdon
Along the northern rim, the two most-visited towns are LA PALUD-SUR-VERDON, where the Route de Cretes begins and ends and ROUGON, 8km to the east. Peace, tranquility and breathtaking scenery reign supreme here – whether you're staying for a while or just passing through, take the time to wander around the narrow, rambling streets and enjoy a meal or drink at a traditional restaurant or café.
La Palud is the place to go for information on sports and activities in the Gorges: the Bureau des Guides (hours erratic – call for information on 
04.92.77.30.50 or check 
www.escalade-verdon.fr ), where you can find out about guided walks, climbing, canyoning, rafting and other activities, is on Grande Rue. The tourist office, which can also supply a list of activity specialists, is off the main road in the château of La Palud (daily except Tues: mid-March to mid-June & mid-Sept to mid-Nov 10am– noon & 4–6pm; mid-June to mid-Sept 10am–1pm & 4–7pm; 04.92.77.32.02, www.lapaludsurverdon.com ), along with La Maison des Gorges (same hours as tourist office; €4), an engaging exhibition detailing the history, geology, flora and fauna of the Gorges.