France’s best-kept secret might just be hiding in plain sight. Perched dramatically above the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix, Aiguines captivates visitors with its perfect blend of heart-stopping natural beauty and authentic Provençal charm. This small village in the Var department serves as the unofficial gateway to the magnificent Verdon Gorges, Europe’s largest canyon that slices dramatically through the landscape.
The village that commands the Verdon
Aiguines’ strategic position offers some of the most spectacular panoramas in all of Provence. The 16th-century Renaissance château dominates the village skyline, its honey-colored stone walls glowing warmly in the southern French sunlight.
“What makes Aiguines special is its privileged position overlooking both the lake and the entrance to the gorges,” explains local tour guide Marie Dupont. “From here, you can appreciate the full majesty of the Verdon landscape.”
A turquoise paradise awaits below
Lake Sainte-Croix shimmers like a jewel below the village, its distinctive turquoise waters inviting visitors to cool off during hot Provençal summers. Created in 1973 when the Verdon River was dammed, this artificial lake has become one of the region’s most beloved natural attractions.
The beaches surrounding the lake offer perfect launch points for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply floating lazily on the calm waters. Rent an electric boat to explore hidden coves or paddle into the entrance of the gorges for a different perspective of these towering limestone cliffs.
A woodturning legacy unique in France
While natural beauty may first draw visitors, Aiguines holds cultural treasures as well. The village has been famous for centuries for its woodturning craftsmen who specialize in creating exquisite boxwood objects.
“Our woodturning tradition dates back to the 17th century,” shares Jean Moreau, a local artisan. “The boxwood growing on the slopes of Verdon has the perfect density and grain for creating our distinctive pieces.”
Visit the Woodturning Museum (open July-August) to discover this fascinating heritage and watch demonstrations of this vanishing art form.
Adventure awaits in every direction
Thrill-seekers flock to Aiguines for its reputation as the regional climbing capital. With routes suitable for beginners to experts, the limestone walls surrounding the village provide world-class climbing opportunities.
For the truly adventurous, the nearby Artuby Bridge offers bungee jumping from one of Europe’s highest platforms – an experience that rivals Thailand’s most breathtaking attractions.
Hiking trails that rival America’s best
The network of trails surrounding Aiguines would impress even seasoned hikers familiar with America’s national parks. The famous Blanc-Martel trail takes brave hikers through the heart of the gorges, while gentler paths offer spectacular viewpoints without the extreme elevation changes.
“Walking these trails reminds me of hiking in the Appalachians, but with a distinctly Mediterranean character,” notes American visitor Sarah Miller, comparing it to similar wilderness experiences back home.
A taste of authentic Provence
Aiguines’ restaurants showcase the bounty of Provence, with locally-sourced ingredients transformed into memorable meals. Try L’Antidote for its relaxed terrace and regional specialties, or De l’Aigle for panoramic views accompanying your meal.
“I’ve traveled extensively across France, but the simple pleasure of enjoying a glass of local rosé while watching the sunset over Lake Sainte-Croix is incomparable,” remarks food writer Pierre Laurent.
Where to stay: from campsites to charming gîtes
Accommodation options in Aiguines cater to all preferences, from beautiful campsites near the lake to charming holiday rentals in renovated village homes. For those seeking a truly unique experience, consider how this compares to staying on a houseboat – both offer immersive natural experiences with stunning views.
The untamed beauty rivals America’s wildest coastlines
The raw, untouched nature surrounding Aiguines evokes comparisons to America’s most pristine barrier islands, though the landscape couldn’t be more different. Instead of Atlantic waves, vertical limestone cliffs plunge hundreds of meters into the emerald waters below.
Aiguines isn’t just a destination; it’s an invitation to discover the wild heart of Provence, where dramatic landscapes meet centuries of human history and culture. Come to Aiguines once, and like so many before you, you’ll find yourself planning your return before you’ve even left.