Pont du Loup is a hamlet in the municipality of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, nestling at the entrance to the Gorges du Loup in the Alpes-Maritimes (06140). Situated between the sea and the mountains, this small Provencal village is the ideal starting point for discovering one of the most spectacular natural sites on the Côte d'Azur.
Here, over the centuries, the coastal river Le Loup has carved out a deep valley with breathtaking scenery. Waterfalls, turquoise pools, limestone cliffs and hiking trails make up an exceptional playground for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
But Pont du Loup also has a heritage steeped in history. Its 12th-century medieval bridge, its past as a tourist resort popular with high society during the Belle Époque, and the remains of the Provence railway all tell a fascinating story of old-world elegance and unspoilt nature.
Here's what to expect in and around the site:
Whether you're planning a day trip to the Côte d'Azur, a holiday in the Grasse hinterland or an outing with friends combining active tourism and discovery, this guide will give you all the keys you need to enjoy Pont du Loup and the Gorges du Loup without missing a thing.
Our team Accessories, based in Gréolières in the heart of the Vallée du Loup for over 15 years, supervises canyoning and paragliding trips in the gorges. State-qualified instructors, 5/5 out of more than 500 reviews: you're in good hands.
Pont du Loup is not just a place to pass through. It's the gateway to a natural site that's home to some of the best outdoor activities in the Alpes-Maritimes. Here are the not-to-be-missed experiences to be had on site and in the gorges.
The Gorges du Loup are one of the most famous canyons in the south of France. The route starts upstream of Pont du Loup and takes you right to the heart of the river, with jumps into turquoise pools, natural slides, abseiling down waterfalls and swimming in pools carved out by the water over thousands of years.
The canyon is accessible from age 6 for beginners, and offers more challenging sections for thrill-seekers - with jumps of up to 10 metres. All equipment is provided: neoprene wetsuit, harness, helmet and socks.
Ailéments supervises outings canyoning in the Gorges du Loup for over 10 years. Our qualified instructors know every nook and cranny of the canyon and adapt the route to the level of the group.
The Gorges du Loup can be discovered not only from the water. From Gréolières, At the top of the valley, you can fly over the gorges in a two-seater paraglider with a qualified instructor. The flight offers a panoramic view of the Mediterranean and the peaks of the Mercantour - a striking landscape between sea and mountains.
The first paragliding flight is accessible from the age of 6, without any particular physical condition. Take-off is from Gréolières, the main Ailéments site, around twenty minutes from Pont du Loup.
For a full day, the paragliding + canyoning combo is the most popular package: a flight in the morning, a canyon descent in the afternoon. It's Ailéments' signature experience, and particularly popular with the more experienced. EVJF, EVG and groups of friends.
Several hiking trails start directly from Pont du Loup or its immediate surroundings. The most emblematic follows the banks of the Loup up the gorge to the Belvedere, with passages carved into the rock and spectacular views of the river below.
The path leading to the Cascade de Courmes is an easy one-hour walk, ideal for families. The more strenuous route to Saut du Loup passes through a landscape of cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation that will delight hikers.
In summer, the natural pools of the Loup attract bathers in search of a refreshing swim. The water is crystal clear but cool - bring water shoes and a towel. The most accessible swimming spots are downstream of Pont du Loup, along the right bank.
For a more complete immersion in the deep pools and hidden passages, a supervised canyoning trip is the best way to enjoy the river to the full in complete safety.
Pont du Loup and the surrounding area boast some of the most photogenic panoramas on the Côte d'Azur. From steep-sided valleys to waterfalls and hilltop villages, here are some not-to-be-missed spots - camera essential.
This is the most spectacular viewpoint in the area. Accessible from the D6 road between Pont du Loup and Gourdon, the Belvedere offers a plunging panoramic view of the gorges, the river and the limestone cliffs that frame the Loup valley. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Mediterranean.
The best time for photos: in the morning, when the low-angled light sculpts the relief and the mist rises at the bottom of the gorge. A few minutes' stop is all it takes - the viewpoint can be reached directly from the roadside.
The bridge that gives its name to the hamlet is a stone structure dating back to the 12th century. Its massive silhouette spans the River Loup in a setting of wild greenery. It's a quiet, charming spot, ideal for a contemplative break by the water.
From the banks of the River Loup below the bridge, the beauty of the site takes on its full dimension: crystal-clear waters, rocks polished by the current, lush vegetation clinging to the walls. In summer, it's also one of the easiest places to cool off in the river.
Two major natural sites punctuate the climb up the gorges from Pont du Loup.
La Courmes waterfall (or Cascade du Loup) is a forty-metre waterfall that plunges into an emerald pool. The access path is signposted and suitable for all the family - allow around 45 minutes' walk from the nearest car park.
Le Saut du Loup, further upstream, is a narrow passage where the river weaves its way between immense rock faces before plunging into a waterfall. The scenery is breathtaking: the power of the water, the noise, the light filtering through the cliffs. A site that in itself justifies a trip to the gorges.
As you climb up from Pont du Loup towards Gourdon, you'll see the remains of the railway viaduct on the Nice-Meyrargues line, destroyed during the Second World War. These stone arches suspended above the void bear witness to a forgotten industrial heritage and offer an unusual view of the valley. A quick stop, but a memorable shot.
Pont du Loup is more than just a natural setting. Behind its Provençal calm lies a rich history, marked by centuries of rural life, a golden interlude during the Belle Époque and the destruction of war.
The history of the hamlet begins with its bridge. Built in the 12th century, this stone structure provided a means of crossing the River Loup on one of the few practicable stretches of road in the valley. It linked the hilltop villages of Grasse's hinterland to the coast and the trade routes of Provence. Its name has stuck: Pont du Loup refers to both the structure and the hamlet that grew up around it.
The construction of this medieval bridge bears witness to the strategic importance of the site, at the crossroads between the coast and the middle country of the Alpes-Maritimes.
At the end of the 19th century, Pont du Loup experienced its golden age. The hamlet became a popular tourist resort for European high society holidaying on the Côte d'Azur. Visitors came on excursions to admire the gorges, sample the trout and crayfish of the Loup in the local inns, and enjoy the pure air of the hinterland.
Queen Victoria herself frequented the site, thanks to the Chemins de Fer de Provence line that linked Nice to Meyrargues across the Loup valley. The train stopped at Pont du Loup station, transforming this isolated hamlet into an accessible and elegant excursion destination.
The Nice-Meyrargues railway line, nicknamed the «Train des Pignes» on its northern section, had a profound effect on the life of Pont du Loup. The viaduct that spanned the gorges was a remarkable work of art, enabling the train to cross the valley at great height.
In August 1944, during the German retreat, the viaduct was dynamited. Its destruction put an end to the direct rail link between Nice and the Grasse hinterland. Today, the ruined arches still stand above the void - a silent reminder of the Second World War visible from the road to Gourdon.
Established in Pont du Loup since 1949, the Florian confectionery perpetuates Provençal know-how around candied fruit, jams and violet sweets - the emblematic flower of the neighbouring village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup. Visits to the workshop are free and offer a welcome gourmet break between two nature-based activities. Today, it's one of the most visited places in the hamlet and a landmark for visitors discovering the region.
Pont du Loup is ideally situated at the crossroads of three of the most beautiful medieval villages on the Côte d'Azur. You can easily combine a day exploring the gorges with a tour of the Grasse hinterland. Here's the logical itinerary.
Just a 10-minute drive from Pont du Loup on the D3, Gourdon clings to a cliff at an altitude of 760 metres. The village offers spectacular panoramic views over the whole of the Loup valley, the coastline from Nice to Antibes and the Mediterranean. To prepare your visit, consult our guide what to do in Gourdon.
With its stone streets, medieval castle and craft workshops, Gourdon is a must-see. Gourdon is also one of the secondary paragliding sites for’Accessories - with an exceptional view of the coast during the flight.
Pont du Loup is administratively attached to Tourrettes-sur-Loup, a 5-minute drive away. This hilltop village is famous for its fields of violets, grown for generations on the sunny terraces around the village.
The heart of the village is well worth a stroll, with its golden stone houses, vaulted passageways, artists' studios and art galleries. Every year in March, the Festival of Violets attracts visitors from all over the region. It is also the starting point for several hiking trails to the gorges and the Courmettes plateau.
Located just outside Pont du Loup, Bar-sur-Loup is a charming Provencal village set on a rocky spur above the right bank of the River Loup. Its Gothic church houses a remarkable altarpiece, and its shady squares invite you to take a break between two activities.
Bar-sur-Loup is historically regarded as the gateway to the Gorges du Loup. The village provides access to several trailheads and is a landmark for visitors exploring the valley. Accessories regularly takes part in paragliding activities in the area.
If you have more time, other destinations naturally extend the excursion from Pont du Loup :
Vence, 15 minutes away, is a blend of historic heritage and modern art, with the famous Chapelle du Rosaire decorated by Matisse. Grasse, The world capital of perfume, Gourdon is just 20 minutes away, offering a combination of cultural visits and olfactory workshops. The Caussols plateau, accessible from Gourdon, offers a lunar landscape unique in Europe and ideal conditions for stargazing.
By combining Pont du Loup, the gorges and two or three hilltop villages, you get a full day of nature, heritage and panoramic views - the best of the Côte d'Azur hinterland in one tour.
Pont du Loup is within easy reach of the main towns on the Côte d'Azur. The hamlet is located in the commune of Tourrettes-sur-Loup (06140), in the Grasse hinterland, at the junction of the D2210 and the D6, which runs up the Gorges du Loup towards Gourdon.
From Nice Take the M6202 motorway for about 40 minutes, then the D2210 towards Grasse. You will pass through Cagnes-sur-Mer and Villeneuve-Loubet, then head up the Loup valley.
From Cannes From Le Bar-sur-Loup: allow 45 minutes on the Grasse ring road (D6185) and then the D2210 towards Vence. The route passes over the heights of Bar-sur-Loup before descending towards Pont du Loup.
From Grasse This is the shortest route, about 20 minutes on the D2210, following the signs for Bar-sur-Loup / Gorges du Loup.
From Antibes or Sophia Antipolis Approximately 30 minutes up towards Valbonne, then Châteauneuf-Grasse and the Loup valley.
The road is pleasant and panoramic, especially the stretch between Bar-sur-Loup and Pont du Loup which runs alongside the gorges. Watch out for the sharp bends if you continue towards Gourdon on the D3 - the road is narrow but the views are well worth the effort.
Parking is free in the hamlet. Parking is available at two main locations:
The car park next to the Florian sweet shop is the most convenient. It gives direct access to the hamlet, the river and the start of the footpaths to the gorges.
A second parking area is located a little further up the D6 in the direction of Gourdon, which is useful during peak summer periods.
In the high season (July-August), the area can be busy, especially at weekends. If you arrive in the morning, you'll enjoy the peace and quiet and the best seats.
The site can be visited all year round, but the best period is from April to October:
Le spring (April-June) is the ideal season. Temperatures are mild, the river flows generously after the winter rains, and the waterfalls are at their most beautiful. It's also the time of year for the Fête des Violettes at Tourrettes-sur-Loup and the start of the canyoning season.
L'summer (July-August) attracts bathers and active tourists. The days are long, perfect for combining activities and sightseeing. The heat makes swimming in the pools particularly enjoyable.
L'autumn (September-October) offers magnificent light for photography and quieter gorges. Canyoning and paragliding are still practised in excellent conditions.
Visit winter, During the summer months, the gorges remain accessible for hiking and heritage discovery, but water activities are suspended. On the other hand, this is the ideal time to discover Gréolières 1400, You can also combine skiing and paragliding on the same day at the family-friendly ski resort 30 minutes away.
What to expect:
Bring closed shoes if you plan to hike or descend to the river. For canyoning and paragliding, all equipment is provided by Accessories - Just bring a swimming costume and towel for the canyoning, and sports shoes for paragliding.
A camera is essential. The views over the gorges, the Belvedere and the hilltop villages provide exceptional backdrops, from dawn to sunset.
If you're planning on canyoning, paragliding or both when you visit Pont du Loup, here's why hundreds of visitors choose Ailéments every year.
Accessories has been based in Gréolières, in the heart of the Vallée du Loup, for over 15 years. The instructors know every nook and cranny of the gorges, every breeze above the valley, every canyon basin. It's not a big commercial structure - it's a small team of enthusiasts who take their time with each customer.
The reviews speak for themselves: 5/5 out of more than 500 Google and TripAdvisor reviews. The words that come up most often? Reassuring, passionate, fun, family. Customers come back by affinity and total trust, not by chance.
This is what sets Ailéments apart in the region. You can book a first paragliding experience in the morning, with views of the Mediterranean and the Mercantour, followed by a canyoning in the Gorges du Loup in the afternoon. Everything is managed by the same team, from the same base camp.
Le paragliding + canyoning combo is the formula of choice for groups of friends, EVJFs, EVGs and corporate outings. Two complementary activities, simplified logistics, guaranteed memories.
All our instructors are fully qualified. Flying equipment is serviced by Aerotech, A specialised workshop on the same site in Gréolières. All canyoning equipment (neoprene wetsuit, harness, helmet, socks) is provided and checked before each outing.
Each activity is adapted to the profile of the group: children from 6 years old in paragliding, from 6 years old in canyoning, modular courses for the most sporty as well as for beginners. You'll be accompanied, advised and safe from start to finish.
No impersonal platform. At Ailéments, bookings are made by telephone on 06 87 68 71 90 or via WhatsApp. Pierrot or the team will call you back, advise you on the most suitable formula, give you the meeting point and check the weather the evening before.
Payment is made on the spot after the activity, by instant transfer or in cash. No advance, no stress. And if the weather doesn't allow you to fly or descend the canyon, the activity can be postponed free of charge.
You can also offer a gift voucher valid for 12 months - an original idea to help you discover the Gorges du Loup in a different way.
Pont du Loup is much more than a picturesque riverside hamlet. It's a crossroads between Provencal heritage and wild nature, between the history of the Belle Époque and some of the most spectacular outdoor activities in the Alpes-Maritimes.
Whether you come to admire the gorges from the Belvedere, dive into the pools by canyoning, paraglide over the valley or stroll between the hilltop villages of Gourdon, Tourrettes-sur-Loup and Bar-sur-Loup, the site offers a complete day out between sea and mountains on the Côte d'Azur.
And to get the full experience, the team Accessories awaits you in Gréolières - a stone's throw from Pont du Loup - to show you the gorges from the air and from the river.
👉 Book your activity in the Gorges du Loup | Offer a gift voucher
