The Verdon Gorges were classified in 1990. They are the object of an annual attendance estimated at more than one million visitors and have an international reputation. They are in a process of Operation Grand Site (OGS) of France since 2002.

A Grand Site is a remarkable territory (landscape, natural and cultural qualities), whose national dimension is recognized by a classification of a significant part of the territory (classification for the protection of natural monuments and sites), which welcomes a large public and is committed to a partnership approach of sustainable and coordinated management to preserve its value, attractiveness, and landscape integrity.

The objectives of an OGS are: to restore and protect the landscape, natural and cultural quality of the site; to improve the quality of the visit while respecting the site; to promote local socio-economic development while respecting the inhabitants.

The purpose of an OGS is to accompany the territory towards obtaining the "Grand Site de France" label.