Gréoux-les-Bains, spa treatment on the banks of the Verdon

As an integral part of the Verdon Regional Nature Park, the geological setting of Gréoux-les-Bains no longer has much in common with the sheer walls of the Grand Canyon, or even with the narrow course of the Basses Gorges du Verdon downstream from the little town: less spectacular, certainly, but also more peaceful, the river continues its course through the fields to join the Durance, of which it is a tributary.

The architecture of the upper part of Gréoux is a reminder of its ancient origins on the banks of the Verdon. The Château des Templiers, enthroned above the old village, immediately catches the eye: this edifice was built in the 12th century under the leadership of the Templar Order, hence its name, but none of these monks-knights ever lived there!

All around the castle, Gréoux has all the typical allure of a Haute-Provence village: its colours, its lilting accents, its traditional market, its narrow streets and old staircases, the town 's historic centre is definitely not lacking in charm! A setting that contrasts with the more modern lower part of the town, developed according to the precepts of the spa.

The curative qualities of the waters of Gréoux-les-Bains have been known since ancient times: thermal baths already existed here under the Romans! The tradition has been perpetuated, and the commune is now ranked as France's third-largest spa resort. The waters are drawn from a depth of 1200m, where their temperature reaches 42°C: rich in sulphur, calcium, magnesium and other trace elements, their therapeutic qualities help to treat rheumatology, traumatology and pneumology problems.

You don't have to treat yourself to a spa treatment to stay in Gréoux-les-Bains. The village is well worth a visit for its heritage, its many sights and its lively atmosphere: the Templar castle, of course, but also the Notre-Dame-des-Ormeaux church in the old town centre, the thermal baths stamped "Thermes Troglodytes Celtes Gallo Romains" and the unmissable casino, a must in any spa resort!

But it's the area around Gréoux, which opens onto the Verdon region, that attracts lovers of walks and outdoor activities. In the middle of the garrigues overlooking the Verdon, the Notre-Dame-des-Oeufs chapel is well worth a visit for its viewpoint and its legend: women wishing to give birth would go there on pilgrimage on Easter Monday, with an egg in each hand. One was swallowed, the other buried: the wish was granted if the egg was found intact on the day of the Virgin's nativity, 8 September!

Follow the lovely Route du Lac to Plage Saint-Étienne and the peaceful waters of Lac d'Esparron. The perfect place to start a hike around the lake, hire a kayak or hop aboard a small electric boat.

Gréoux-les-Bains is also at the forefront of the magnificent Valensole plateau, famous for its vast expanses of lavender in bloom: from late June to early July, the scenery of bright purple lavandin fields and delicate scents is truly enchanting!