Grand Canyon du Verdun

Up early this morning, grabbed our breakfast from the campsite's Accueil and drove to the Grand Canyon du Verdun, munching as we went. It took almost two hours to get there, even though it wasn't really very far, but the roads were very small and winding. But it was lovely driving through fields of lavender, and as we wound our way closer to the gorge the scenery became more and more interesting.

We drove round a scenic route, and stopped a few times to gaze in wonder at the canyon. One stop we made was just awesome - not only did we see the stunning canyon, but also some intrepid rock climbers and a huge eagle soaring just above us. Had a lunch stop in a quintessential french restaurant covered with beautiful red geraniums and a handful of feral cats. Then onwards to the Point Sublime (which is where this shot was taken from), and then down to the canyon floor where we went on a walk, which included a 670m tunnel (yes, 670m - that's very long indeed, and the only lighting we had was from our phones!)

After the walk we cooled our feet in the river and were lucky enough to be in touching distance from a group of white-water rafters shooting downstream.

Then the long and winding drive back, including a quick swim in the Lac du Ste Croix, and a stop amongst the lavender fields outside Valensole, plenty of in-car disco dancing, then several failed attempts to get pizza in Oraison, a decision to have pasta instead and then finding a pizza van about 200m from the campsite.

It was a big day with lots of favourites:
G = the eagle
V = the walk (I think...)
PJ = the tunnel (I think...)
Mrs BH = putting her head in the river after the walk
me = the lavender