Gorges du Loup offers a dramatic contrast to the golden beaches and superyachts most commonly associated with the French Riviera. The region is criss-crossed by hiking trails and the Loup River provides abundant opportunities for canyoners and aquatic hikers.
Gorges du Loup is a common feature of full-day excursions from Antibes and Nice; these tours let you skip the hassle of car hire by typically including round-trip transport. Many itineraries stop at hilltop villages such as Gourdon, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and Grasse. You can even embark on a Harley Davidson tour for a dramatic driving experience of the Route des Gorges du Loup.
Located at the base of the Gorges du Loup, Pont-du-Loup is just a 30-minute drive from Grasse via the D2210, and roughly 45 minutes from Antibes and Nice via the D6. To access Gourdon and landmarks along the left bank of the river, take the D3. The region is best accessed by car, but note that the road is better suited to experienced drivers and that parking can be difficult to find. Tours offer the easiest way to reach the natural landmark.
If you plan to go hiking or rock-climbing, visit in the spring or fall when temperatures aren’t as scorching. To swim or go canyoning, plan for a summertime excursion.
In addition to the natural scenery, the Gorges du Loup region also boasts some of France’s prettiest villages. Gourdon is renowned for its medieval scenery and lofty views, while Saint-Paul-de-Vence is also known for its artistic pedigree: it was frequented by Pablo Picasso, James Baldwin, and Marc Chagall. Tourrettes-sur-Loup is one more scenic wonder and is also said to offer some of the region’s best ice cream.
