Var Valley, French Riviera/Maritime Alps, France
This time, we embark on a breathtaking scenic drive through the Var Valley, tracing the path of the river of the same name. This river originates at the stunning junction of the Maritime Alps and the Alps de Haute Provence, making its journey all the way to the Mediterranean Sea near Nice Airport in the town of Saint-Laurent-du-Var. This recommended road trip will take you through a series of captivating towns and dramatic landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience. To fully appreciate the stunning vistas, it is highly recommended to undertake this journey on a day with beautiful, sunny weather.
Carros - Entrevaux
We start in Carros (A) and then we enter the Route de Grenoble (M6202 road) and drive towards the mountains. We pass several villages having the Var river on the left side. By the way, we drive along well-known route of the "Train des Pignes" linking Nice with Digne-les-Bains. After Saint-Martin-du-Var the lanscapes begin to be more interesting, the mountains are near, the road splits into two separate lanes. We go through several tunnels driving near the edges of the rock walls. Nearby Gorges de la Mescla the landscapes are very interesting (B; GPS: 43.908773, 7.190593), and finally we cross the Var river entering the D6202 road. We pass some towns and finally we achieve the first goal of our journey, which is the town of Entrevaux (C). You can stop here, relax a little bit and additionally visit the town (we wrote a separate article about this town).
The drive from Carros is an ascent into the heart of the Alps, with the scenery transforming from rolling hills to rugged mountains. The road, carved into the mountainside, offers stunning perspectives of the river below and the lush valleys above. The "Train des Pignes" is a highlight of the journey, adding a nostalgic touch as it chugs along the riverbanks. This part of the drive is a preview of the more dramatic landscapes that await further along the route.
Entrevaux - Gorges de Daluis
We move on and then go toward the Gorges de Daluis canyon, which was created by the river Var. After leaving Entrevaux we cross the railway of "Train des Pignes" - we just saw the train arriving, so we had to stop the car for a few minutes before the rail crossing. After a few kilometers we turn right, driving the D902 road (D; GPS: 43.971050, 6.760011). We are already very close to the Gorges de Daluis canyon.
The brief pause for the "Train des Pignes" adds a touch of adventure to the drive, reminding you of the unique transportation history of the area. This turn onto the D902 marks a significant change in the scenery, as the landscape becomes more rugged and the road begins to snake its way through the dramatic canyons, signaling the start of the most spectacular part of the trip.
Gorges de Daluis
The canyon has its origin in the vicinity of the town of Daluis (E; GPS: 44.024239, 6.811628), and then extends for about six kilometers to the village of Guillaumes. A characteristic feature of it are red rocks - the Var river flows through the sandstone colored with iron oxide. The route is very spectacular - from time to time there are bays on the road where you can stop and look around. We stopped at the following locations:
- GPS: 44.014814, 6.803751 (F)
- GPS: 44.038637, 6.831353 (G)
- GPS: 44.050171, 6.842838 (H)
- GPS: 44.054776, 6.848328 (I)
While driving you should pay attention to the rock-like figure of a woman - it is called "La Gardienne des Gorges" ("Guardian of the Canyon") (J; GPS: 44.040381, 6.837189).
The canyon begins near the town of Daluis and extends for approximately six kilometers to the village of Guillaumes. Its most characteristic feature is the striking red color of the rocks, as the Var river flows through sandstone colored with iron oxide, creating a vibrant, almost otherworldly landscape. The drive through the canyon is an unforgettable experience, with the road often carved directly into the red rock cliffs and passing through short tunnels, offering thrilling views at every turn.
Guillaumes
After driving through the Gorges de Daluis canyon we approach our destination: the town of Guillaumes (J; GPS: 44.088268, 6.853807). We park the car in the parking lot near the center (1; GPS: 44.088765, 6.853794) of the town. Then we go up the main street of the town to the visible end of the dwellings. We enter a side street and go slightly uphill. On the way we pass the church of Saint-Etienne with a belfry tower from thirteenth-century (K; GPS: 44.089758, 6.854098). If you want you can also climb to the top of the hill where the ruins of the castle of Joanna I (Queen of Naples) from fifteenth century (L; GPS: 44.091006, 6.855507) are located. While returning to the parking lot it's worth to visit the "Boulangerie Des Alpes" (a bakery) located on the main square (Place Provence), which sells gourmet products in the form of sweet yeast buns with raisins, etc. (M; GPS: 44.089475, 6.853269).
The castle ruins are a powerful reminder of Guillaumes's strategic importance in the Middle Ages. Although now just remnants, they provide a tangible link to the history of Queen Joanna I. The church, with its unique belfry, is another architectural highlight, representing centuries of local faith and craftsmanship. These historical sites give the small town a rich character that complements the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.
After driving through the stunning Gorges de Daluis canyon, we approach our final destination: the town of Guillaumes. We park the car in the convenient parking lot near the town center. From there, we walk up the main street to the visible end of the dwellings. We then enter a side street and continue a short, slightly uphill walk. Along the way, we pass the beautiful church of Saint-Etienne, which features a distinctive belfry tower from the thirteenth century. If you feel up for a hike, you can also climb to the top of the hill where the ruins of the castle of Joanna I, Queen of Naples, from the fifteenth century, are located. This climb offers a rewarding view of the town and the surrounding valley. On your return to the parking lot, it is highly recommended to visit the "Boulangerie Des Alpes" (a bakery) located on the main square (Place Provence), which sells delicious gourmet products in the form of sweet yeast buns with raisins and other treats. Update 2025: unfortunately, from what we have learned, this great bakery is no longer in operation.
Local Delicacies and Gastronomy
After a long and thrilling drive through the canyons, indulging in some local delicacies is a perfect way to relax. The "Boulangerie Des Alpes" in Guillaumes is a must-visit for its freshly baked goods. The sweet yeast buns with raisins are a delightful treat, perfect for a snack or as a souvenir to enjoy later. You can find other regional products in local shops, such as honey, mountain cheeses, and cured meats.
The towns along the Var Valley, though small, often have charming local restaurants or "auberges" where you can enjoy hearty mountain cuisine. Look for dishes made with local trout from the river, game, or seasonal vegetables. A warm meal in a cozy, rustic restaurant is the ideal conclusion to a day of exploration in this rugged and beautiful region.
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