Créé par Emilie, le 1 juil. 2026
Votre guide Ryo
The 10 Most Beautiful Hikes in the Verdon Gorge
© Shutterstock
The Verdon Gorge, nicknamed the "European Grand Canyon", is one of France's most spectacular natural sites. This Provençal gem, located between the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var, offers hikers an exceptional playground with its dizzying cliffs, turquoise waters and legendary trails. Whether you're a fan of family walks or an experienced hiker, these 10 most beautiful hikes in the Verdon Gorge will help you discover all the majesty of this unique canyon in Europe.
1. The Blanc-Martel Trail: the Legendary Verdon Gorge Hike
Considered as the most prestigious hike in the Verdon Gorge, the Blanc-Martel trail is a must for any hiking enthusiast. This 15-kilometer trail follows the Verdon riverbed on the right bank of the canyon, from Chalet de la Maline to Point Sublime. Traced at the beginning of the 20th century, it bears the name of Édouard-Alfred Martel, a speleologist pioneer of gorge exploration.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours
• Distance: 15 km
• Elevation gain: 600m positive
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Starting point: Chalet de la Maline (La Palud-sur-Verdon)
The route crosses breathtaking landscapes with its emblematic passages like the Étroit des Cavaliers, the Brèche Imbert with its famous metal ladders (252 steps) and the Couloir Samson tunnel, 670 meters long. This hike requires good physical condition and is not recommended for people prone to vertigo.
2. The Imbut Trail: the Most Spectacular Hike
Described by many experts as the most beautiful hike in the Verdon Gorge, the Imbut trail offers a dizzying descent into the heart of the canyon. The term "Imbut" means "funnel" in Provençal, referring to the place where the Verdon disappears into an underground gallery.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 6 hours round trip
• Distance: 8.2 km
• Elevation gain: 693m
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Starting point: Auberge des Cavaliers parking
This exceptional hike takes you through passages equipped with handholds, offering unique panoramas of the limestone cliffs and emerald waters of the Verdon. The highlight is arriving at the Imbut where the torrent mysteriously disappears underground. Warning: this trail is reserved for experienced hikers and forbidden to children under 12.
3. The Little Blanc-Martel Trail: a Family Version
Shortened and less technical version of the famous Blanc-Martel trail, this hike constitutes the best easy hike in the Verdon Gorge. It allows you to discover the beauties of the canyon without the difficulties of the full route.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 2h30 round trip
• Distance: 4.7 km
• Elevation gain: 406m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Starting point: Chalet de la Maline
The trail descends to Pré d'Issane, a magnificent pebble beach on the banks of the Verdon where swimming is possible (beware, the water remains cool even in summer!). The route crosses the Estellier footbridge, a true balcony suspended above the void, offering a striking view of the gorges.
4. The Lower Verdon Gorge Trail
This spectacular hike runs along the lower Verdon gorges between Montmeyan and Quinson, offering a more accessible alternative to the grand canyon trails. It combines aerial passages, tunnels and suspension bridges in a grandiose setting.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 3 hours
• Distance: 9.7 km
• Elevation gain: 325m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Starting point: Montmeyan
The route takes the old guard-canal path with remarkable equipment: stairs carved in rock, safety cables and an impressive tunnel several hundred meters long. The viewpoints over the Verdon and Mediterranean vegetation make this a particularly photogenic hike.
5. The Hike to Notre-Dame du Roc in Castellane
Perched on a 180-meter rocky peak, the Notre-Dame du Roc chapel majestically dominates Castellane (04120 Castellane, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 8,000 reviews), gateway to the Verdon Gorge. This short but symbolic hike offers an exceptional panorama over the town and the pre-gorges.
Download the audio-guided circuit to discover Castellane on foot and independently
Although Castellane doesn't yet have a dedicated Ryo circuit, this charming medieval city deserves a thorough visit. Its historic center, ramparts and strategic position make it the ideal starting point for exploring the Verdon Gorge. Let yourself be guided in your discovery of this authentic town that carefully keeps the secrets of Alpine Provence.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 1 hour round trip
• Distance: 2.4 km
• Elevation gain: 163m
• Difficulty: Easy
• Starting point: Swimming pool parking, Castellane
The trail follows a marked Stations of the Cross that zigzags through Provençal vegetation to the summit. The chapel, built in the 12th century, offers a 360° view of Castellane, the Verdon valley and surrounding massifs. Two orientation tables help identify surrounding peaks.
6. The Botanical Trail of Esparron-de-Verdon
This educational and family-friendly walk reveals the typical flora of the Verdon Gorge while offering magnificent viewpoints over Lake Esparron. The route is marked with botanical panels that enrich the hike with an educational dimension.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 2h30
• Distance: 4.5 km
• Elevation gain: 182m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Starting point: Esparron-de-Verdon
The trail crosses varied landscapes: wooded hillsides, shores of the turquoise lake where swimming is permitted, and the famous Pont Coupé submerged 10 meters deep. About fifteen botanical stations allow identification of holm oaks, junipers, wild lavender and other Mediterranean species characteristic of the region.
7. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Lake Sainte-Croix via the Roman Road
This hike connects the famous village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie to Lake Sainte-Croix via an ancient Roman road. Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is an ideal starting point for discovering the Verdon Gorge.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 2h30
• Distance: 9.8 km
• Elevation gain: 448m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Starting point: Riou stone bridge, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
The route begins with the Sainte-Madeleine cave before reaching a rocky plateau offering a splendid view of the valley. The ancient Roman road then overlooks Lake Sainte-Croix, revealing exceptional panoramas of this turquoise jewel. The descent toward Moustiers-Sainte-Marie allows admiring the star suspended between the cliffs, symbol of the village.
8. The Ascent of Grand Margès
This sporty hike from Aiguines leads to the summit of Grand Margès (1,577m), the highest point offering one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Verdon Gorge and Lake Sainte-Croix. It's a physical challenge rewarded by unforgettable landscapes.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 5 hours round trip
• Distance: 9.8 km
• Elevation gain: 797m
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Starting point: Aiguines
The trail takes the GR99 through pine and holm oak forests before reaching the limestone ridges. Several viewpoints mark the ascent, including the Vaumale fountain which offers a welcome refreshing stop. At the summit, the view embraces the Verdon Gorge, Lake Sainte-Croix, the Valensole plateau and, on clear days, the Southern Alps.
9. The Rancoumas Viewpoint Trail
This hike leads to one of the most spectacular viewpoints of the Verdon Gorge. The Rancoumas Viewpoint offers a unique perspective on the canyon's most photogenic meander, with its turquoise waters set between white limestone cliffs.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: 3 hours round trip
• Distance: 6 km
• Elevation gain: 300m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Starting point: La Palud-sur-Verdon
The trail crosses Provençal scrubland dotted with kermes oaks and junipers before reaching the cliffs. The viewpoint, developed and secured, overlooks the Verdon by more than 400 meters. It's one of photographers' most prized spots for capturing the magic of the gorges, particularly at the end of the day when golden light illuminates the rock walls.
10. The Route des Crêtes on Foot
Although generally traveled by car or bicycle, certain sections of the Route des Crêtes offer excellent pedestrian hikes. This 23-kilometer tourist route connects La Palud-sur-Verdon to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie along the right bank of the gorges.
Technical characteristics:
• Duration: Variable according to sections (1h to 4h)
• Distance: 5 to 15 km depending on chosen route
• Elevation gain: Variable
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Multiple starting points: different viewpoints
The 14 viewpoints of the Route des Crêtes constitute as many starting points for short hikes. The most spectacular are the Belvédère de la Carelle, that of Escalès and the Dent d'Aire which probably offers the most beautiful view of the canyon. These walks allow discovering the gorges from different angles while remaining accessible to families.
In conclusion, the Verdon Gorge offers exceptional diversity of hikes for all levels. From the mythical Blanc-Martel trail to the family walks of the Esparron botanical trail, each route reveals a unique facet of this Provençal jewel. Whether you choose the sporty adventure of the Imbut trail or peaceful contemplation from the Route des Crêtes viewpoints, these 10 most beautiful hikes in the Verdon Gorge will leave you with unforgettable memories. Don't hesitate to also discover the other activities that these extraordinary gorges offer to enrich your stay in this marvel of Provençal nature.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking in the Verdon Gorge
What is the best period for hiking in the Verdon Gorge?
The ideal period extends from April to October, with preference for spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) which offer milder temperatures and less crowds. Summer requires starting very early in the morning to avoid the heat.
Is the Imbut trail open in 2025?
Yes, the Imbut trail was reopened in 2025 after its temporary closure for safety reasons in 2022. However, it remains reserved for experienced hikers and forbidden to children under 12.
Is it necessary to book the Blanc-Martel shuttle?
Yes, it is strongly recommended to book the Blanc-Martel shuttle, especially in high season. This shuttle easily connects the starting point (Chalet de la Maline) to the arrival point (Point Sublime) without having to use two vehicles.
Which hikes are accessible with children?
The little Blanc-Martel trail, the Esparron botanical trail and the hike to Notre-Dame du Roc in Castellane are particularly suitable for families. These routes combine safety, reasonable distances and points of interest that will captivate the youngest.