Verdon Gorge, Canyon in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var, France.
Verdon Gorge is a 25-kilometer cut through limestone walls in southern France, dropping as deep as 700 meters into the rock. The river below flows through narrow passages while cliff faces rise on both sides in vertical sheets.
The cut formed millions of years ago when seawater deposited limestone and later uplifts raised the land. The river began cutting through the rock after the sea withdrew, shaping the current gorge over long stretches of time.
The name comes from the turquoise color of the river, caused by glacial sediment that changes with the light. Local people from villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Castellane simply call the river
The scenic road on both rims provides viewpoints, while the path at the bottom is suited only to experienced walkers with sturdy footwear. Water and sun protection are needed, as shade is limited and the return trip takes several hours.
More than 1,500 climbing routes run up the walls, making this one of the largest natural climbing areas in France. Some sections close in winter to protect nesting sites for birds of prey that build homes in the rock cracks.
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