🛶 Esparron-de-Verdon: canoe and kayak rental on the lake and the lower gorges

Oct 1
5 min read

Located at the gateway to the Verdon Regional Natural Park, Esparron-de-Verdon is a small Provençal village perched on the edge of a turquoise lake. Quieter and wilder than Sainte-Croix, it is one of the best spots for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or pedal boating .

Whether you are with family, a couple or friends, canoe rental in Esparron allows you to explore the lower Verdon Gorges , a spectacular and preserved natural site.

🛶 Esparron-de-Verdon: canoe and kayak rental on the lake and the lower gorges

📑 Summary

🚗 Access & location
🌊 Why choose Esparron to rent a canoe or kayak?
🛶 Canoeing and kayaking tours in Esparron
💶 Rates & rental duration
📅 Best time to paddle in Esparron
📏 Regulations & safety
🏞️ Other activities around Lake Esparron
🚗 Convenient parking & access

🚗 Access & location

Esparron-de-Verdon is located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence (04):

1h30 from Marseille , 1h from Aix-en-Provence and 45 min from Manosque.
Accessible via the A51 (Manosque or Vinon-sur-Verdon exit).
By bus, there are connections from Manosque or Gréoux-les-Bains.

The village directly overlooks the lake, with several developed beaches and water sports centers in the immediate vicinity.

🌊 Why choose Esparron to rent a canoe or kayak?

Compared to other spots in the Verdon:

✅ Fewer crowds than at Lake Sainte-Croix.
✅ Calm water , ideal for families and beginners.
✅ Wild landscapes with cliffs and dense vegetation.
✅ Direct access to the lower Verdon Gorges , a narrow and spectacular canyon.

👉 It’s the perfect compromise between nature, relaxation and discovery .

🛶 Canoeing and kayaking tours in Esparron

🛶 Esparron-de-Verdon: canoe and kayak rental on the lake and the lower gorges

🌅 Discovery trail – Family walk (2 to 5 km)

Departure: Esparron beaches.
Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
Highlights: turquoise water, cliffs, accessible swimming.
Ideal for families with children or beginners in kayaking.

🏞️ Intermediate route – Bassses gorges (6 to 8 km)

Departure: Esparron nautical bases.
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours.
Highlights: narrower gorges, impressive cliffs, wild atmosphere.
Level: accessible but requires a little endurance.

⛰️ Day trip – Complete exploration (10 to 15 km)

Departure: Esparron.
Duration: 4 hours per day.
Highlights: total immersion in the lower gorges, picnic possible on isolated beaches.
Tip: Leave early in the morning to avoid the wind and heat.

⚠️ Please note: navigation is prohibited beyond the areas authorized by the Nature Reserve . Rental companies always indicate the limits.

💶 Rates & rental duration

Average prices charged by Esparron rental companies (2025):

⏳ 1 hour: €10 to €15 / person
🕒 Half day: €20 to €30 / person
📅 Full day: €40 to €50 / person
🚤 Pedal boat or paddle: €15 to €25/hour

👉 All rentals include: life jacket, paddles, waterproof container, safety briefing.

📅 Best time to paddle in Esparron

May – June and September : ideal period (fewer people, pleasant temperatures).
July – August : high traffic → book online at least 48 hours in advance.
Morning : calmer water, beautiful colors and less wind.

Water temperature in summer: 20 to 24°C , perfect for swimming.

📏 Regulations & safety

👶 Minimum age: 7 years (able to swim 25 m and submerge).
🐕 Dogs: accepted depending on the rental company, always kept on a leash on the beaches.
🚁 Drones: prohibited in the Reserve.
🔥 Fires & stoves: prohibited in the gorges.
🦺 Mandatory equipment: life jacket provided and worn.

👉 Respect the environment: zero waste, no excessive noise, no wild camping.

🏞️ Other activities around Lake Esparron

In addition to canoeing, Esparron offers:

🚤 Electric boats without a license to explore the lake with your family.
🥾 Hiking : Lower Gorges Trail, GR4.
🏖️ Swimming on supervised beaches.
🎣 Fishing (license required).
🌿 Observation of fauna and flora (eagles, fish, emerald water).

🚗 Convenient parking & access

Free parking : at the entrance to the village, 5–10 min walk from the beaches.
Paid parking : close to the lake in high season.
Water sports centers : parking reserved for customers.

👉 Arrive before 10am in summer to easily find a spot.

🌟 Conclusion: why choose Esparron for canoe-kayak rental?

Choosing Esparron-de-Verdon for a canoe or kayak trip means discovering a wilder and more authentic version of the Verdon .

Here, there are no rapids or crowds, but a turquoise lake and spectacular narrow gorges , accessible to all.

Between nature, swimming, kayaking and Provençal charm , Esparron is an unmissable destination for experiencing a unique adventure in the heart of the Verdon.

❓ FAQ – Canoe Kayak Rental in Esparron-de-Verdon

🛶 Where to rent a canoe or kayak at Lake Esparron-de-Verdon?
Several water sports centers around Lake Esparron-de-Verdon offer canoe, kayak, paddleboard, and pedal boat rentals. The main locations are near the village of Esparron, the port, and the beaches. During peak season, it is recommended to book online to secure your slot.
💶 What are the canoe rental rates at Lake Esparron?
In 2025, prices range from €10–15 per person for 1 hour, €20–30 for a half-day, and €40–50 for a full day. Paddles, life jackets, and waterproof containers are included. Some rental companies offer reduced rates for families or groups.
👨👩👧 Can you go kayaking in Esparron-de-Verdon with children?
Yes! Lake Esparron is calm and suitable for families with children from 6–7 years old who can swim. The short courses (1–2 hours) are ideal, with numerous beaches for a break. Some rental companies provide child life jackets and adapted seats.
🗺️ What canoeing and kayaking trips are available from Esparron-de-Verdon? Three options: discovery trip on the lake (1–2 hours), exploration of the lower gorges (2–3 hours), or a full day of lake and gorges (5–6 hours). Each trip offers a different experience, from family fun to a more sporty adventure.
⏱️ How long does a canoe trip to Lac d'Esparron take on average? Allow 1 hour for a quick loop, 2–3 hours to explore the gorges, and 5–6 hours for a full trip with a picnic. Half-day trips are the preferred choice for visitors.
📅 Should you book your canoe-kayak rental in Esparron in advance?
Yes, especially in July and August and on weekends. Morning departures fill up quickly. Booking online guarantees you a slot and avoids waiting at the Esparron port.
🐶 Can you take a dog canoeing at Lake Esparron?
Some rental companies accept small or medium-sized dogs. Check before booking. Bring a collapsible bowl and water, and avoid the hottest hours for your dog's comfort.
🌅 What is the best time of day to rent a kayak in Esparron?
Mornings before 11 a.m.: calmer lake, less wind, magnificent scenery. In summer, this allows you to avoid the heat and crowds. In the evening, the sunsets also offer a unique experience.
🎒 What equipment is included in the canoe and kayak rental in Esparron? Included: life jacket, paddle, and waterproof container. Some rental companies add a course map, child seats, or waterproof bags. Remember to bring closed-toe shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water.
🚗 Where can you park for easy access to canoe rentals in Esparron-de-Verdon? Paid parking is available near the port and beach (fills up quickly in summer). Some rental companies offer free parking reserved for their customers. For greater convenience, arrive before 10 a.m. or use the free parking areas just a few minutes' walk away.