Set at the entrance of the Gorges du Verdon, this small mountain town is one of the main hubs for exploring the canyon and the surrounding landscapes.

Surrounded by tall cliffs and crossed by the Verdon River, it has a lively, outdoors-focused atmosphere, especially in summer when hikers, climbers, and kayakers pass through.

Castellane is best known for the dramatic rock that rises above the town, topped by the Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Roc. The climb to the chapel takes about 30 minutes and rewards you with wide views over the valley and rooftops below.

The town itself is compact, with cafés, small hotels, and a central square that fills up in the evenings. It’s also one of the best places in the region to organize adventure activities, from white-water rafting to canyoning.

👉 Local Tip: Climb to the chapel early in the morning or late afternoon. Midday heat makes the ascent harder, and the light is much better outside peak hours.