France is best known for its picturesque man-made attractions such as the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe. What many don’t know is that it also has its own host of natural attractions. A case in point is the Gorges du Loup, which features gorgeous waterfalls, awe-inspiring limestone ridges, and crystalline pools. Regardless of whether you want to drive through the area to enjoy the scenery or you want to get up close with nature and get fantastic views. If you’re interested in seeing the magnificent sights for yourself, here’s a guide to Gorges du Loup, Grasse, you can use so you’ll know what to see and do in the area.
Things to do / highlights
Here are the top things to do in Gorges Du Loup.
Road trip
You can actually take in the gorgeous views of Gorges Du Loup on a road trip. Take the Gorges du Loup road and you can follow the Loup River’s path as it cuts across Le Bar-sur-Loup, Pont-du-Loup, Tourrettes-Sur-Loup, and Vence. Some sights you will see on your drive include a waterfall and some historic villages.
Waterfalls
The most famous of Gorges Du Loup’s waterfalls is Cascade de Courmes, which is actually visible from the road. The area, however, also has two other waterfalls, Saut du Loup and Cascades des Demoiselles.
Outdoor activities
If exploring the waterfalls isn’t enough excitement for you, you can try adrenaline-pumping activities in the area such as rock climbing, paragliding, horseback riding, rock climbing, fishing, and bungee jumping. You can also explore the area by canyoning.
Quaint, historic villages
If you have time, be sure to explore the historic villages along the route. One must-see village is Le-Bar-sur-Loup. Dubbed as the “City of Orange Trees” because of its most popular product, it dates back to the 16th century. Be sure to check out the Church of Saint Jacques while you are in the area. If you want a unique souvenir, buy a bottle of perfume made from the flowers of the orange trees, or else orange jam or orange wine. Gourdon, which features great views of Côte d'Azur and has a castle you can explore, is also worth visiting. If you’re a fan of art, drop by Tourrettes Sur Loup, known for its active arts community.
Grasse
While you’re in the area, you may also want to check out the historic town of Grasse, known for its Provencal-style architecture. Be sure to bring out your camera and take photos of its picture-perfect fountains and squares.
Other nearby attractions
If you have enough time, consider exploring the other attractions within the vicinity. Antibes, for instance, features a long stretch of sandy beach that both tourists and locals head off to. It’s also the home of a marine park, which is great for those traveling with their kids. Cannes, with its beaches and its thriving arts scene. is also a short drive from Gorges Du Loup. Vence, meanwhile, is a great place to head to if you’re a fan of history and architecture.
Travel tips
Accessibility
Do note that there’s no disabled access here.
Easy access to great views
If you can’t resist taking a closer look at the sights but don’t want to get wet, there’s a visitors’ center that you can head to get views of the waterfalls and pools the area is famous for.
Parking
There’s paid parking by the Cascade de Courmes, but do note that there are limited spaces there. There are, however, spots where you can leave your car right after the first long tunnel.
Souvenirs
If you want a unique souvenir, buy a bottle of perfume made from the flowers of the orange trees, or else orange jam or orange wine, from Le-Bar-sur-Loup. Alternatively, you can also buy wine from Grasse, dubbed as the wine capital of the region. Meanwhile, Gourdon offers craft glassware, paintings on silk, soaps, honey, nougat, and gingerbread as souvenirs.
How to get there
By car
The easiest way you can explore this area is by car. You can access Gorges du Loup from the A8 autoroute by exiting 42, 46, 47, or 48, depending on where you are coming from. You can also take the D2210 road.
On foot
If you want a more adventurous way of exploring the area, you can actually go hiking and canyoning your way as you follow the river. This route may be more labor-intensive, but you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views. Be sure to pack your wetsuit and bring a hard hat with you if you opt for this option. Do note that this route is only advisable for those who are physically fit, know how to swim, and ideally have had prior experience in these outdoor activities. There are campsites in the area, so plan accordingly. There are also travel guides that offer tours in case you want somebody to show you the way.
Gorges Du Loup information
Gorges Du Loup
Address: Grasse, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
Department of tourism: Visit France
History
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