The 8 most beautiful hikes to do in the Gorges du Verdon

Choose from the most beautiful hikes to do in the Gorges du Verdon to explore this incredible geological formation!

The Gorges du Verdon form the largest canyon in Europe. Located north of Provence between Var and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence , they are composed of spectacular landscapes dug by the river Verdon.

This paradise of canyoning, kayaking or climbing is also for hiking enthusiasts. Indeed, itineraries are numerous and allow us to contemplate sumptuous panoramas!

And you, are you rather aerial path on the cliff or a quiet ride by the water? Whatever it is you will surely find your happiness in our selection of the most beautiful hikes to do in the Gorges du Verdon. Follow the guide, open the way!

1. The Imbut Trail

The Imbut trail is simply the most majestic route among the hikes to be done in the Gorges du Verdon!

Everything begins on the parking lot of the hotel des Cavaliers located on the tourist road of Aiguines. The hikers follow the path marked in the woods and make a straight descent on the banks of the Verdon. You are at the heart of the largest canyon in Europe!

The trail overlooks a cornice secured by a handrail. It goes up to the Vidal trail that leads to Imbut. Here, the canyon shrinks and the Verdon is seen in an underground gallery. The beautiful beach of Baou Béni is located below. The return is done by a trail that goes back in the forest.

Good to know: This route is not recommended to people with vertigo. But also forbids children under 12, as well as dogs.

2. Les basses gorges du Verdon

From the village of Montmeyan cross the bridge overlooking the Verdon: you will find parking on your right. This hike in the Gorges du Verdon begins on a yellow marked path. Sensations guarantees of entry of the game: staircases arranged in the rock, bridges suspended on the Verdon, breathtaking views...

Cables help to secure progress. You will then follow the Verdon on the rock side and then undergrowth along the old Verdon canal. The route is pushed into an impressive tunnel: at its exit is the way back. It is confused with the sumptuous GR99 and zigzague in the ravine of Sainte-Maxime.

You will then go back quietly to your starting point... The lights are fair from end to end and the vegetation, sublime. So, conquer?

3. The White Martel Trail

This hike in the Gorges du Verdon dates the river through its bed. It follows the Blanc Martel trail built almost a century ago and is a section of GR4. Not physically difficult, however, there are some dizzying sections.

From La Maline, the path passes the ravine of Charençon to the colossal rocky bar of Pas d’Issane. The Etroit des Cavaliers follows: this narrow passage between two cliffs of 300 meters is a highlight of the route!

Then continue to Brèche Imbert and its ladders in the rock. The path goes up the Verdon at varying altitudes. Beautiful pebble beaches and spectacular monolithic formations make the progression unforgettable. Your adventure ends shortly after the passage of a long tunnel...

4. The little path Blanc Martel

This is a much shorter variant of the previous itinerary. Ideal for children, it avoids the difficult and airy passages of the Blanc Martel Trail.

This hike in the Gorges du Verdon also starts from La Maline and then joins the water at the gué de l’Estellié. You will pass the ravine of Charençon then the staircase that allows you to overcome the rock bar of Pas d’Issane.

Instead of taking the bridge, you have to continue to the left in the direction of the Issane Pre. It is a nice little pebble beach and the first place where you reach the edge of the Verdon. You can swim there because the current is not strong but... Careful, the water is cold! The trail is shaded and offers a pleasant freshness during strong summer heat.

5. The chapel of Notre-Dame du Roc

Castellane is an emblematic Provençal village in the area. This hike in the Gorges du Verdon leads you to the chapel of Notre-Dame du Roc. From the parking lot of the pool, cross the bridge to the intersection of the RN85. A sign indicates the starting point of the trail to Notre-Dame du Roc.

You will reach the cross road and then walk on a pleasant lace path to the chapel. It dominates the entire village of Castellane and offers its guests of the day a splendid view of the surrounding nature.

This friendly and family walk is aimed at hikers with a good amount of water and... sun cream in the summer! We recommend it in the autumn: at this time of the year the colors are splendid in the region.

6. Esparron Botanical Trail

A pretty loop awaits you for this hike in the Verdon Gorges. The Esparron botanical trail will make you discover the typical plants of the region. Perfectly marked, it includes about 15 points of interest and an orientation table to highlight the splendid panorama.

After you are directed to the castle, you will have to cross a stream to reach wooded hillsides. The botanical trail then runs along a sparkling lake. You can swim there and in summer, it’s even highly recommended!

Then you will go back to the Verdon at the Coupe Bridge. This one is submerged at about ten meters deep. You will then reach the castle then your starting point. Ah: Even if it’s tempting and it smells good, it’s forbidden to bring back lavender strands to home...

7. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie by the Roman way

The village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is close to the entrance of the gorges and the Lac de Sainte-Croix. This village is one of the most beautiful in the region and offers a hike in the Gorges du Verdon.

The route is scheduled to start at the Riou Stone Bridge and leads you to the Sainte Madeleine Cave. A rocky plateau overlooking the valley will then offer you a sublime view of the valley.

Then the route follows an ancient Roman path that dominates the lake of Sainte-Croix. What a beauty! The descent to the village is done quietly. Once back in this picturesque hamlet, what would you say to complete the visit by a return trip to the nearby Notre-Dame de Beauvoir chapel?

8. The Ascension of the Great Margès

This hike in the Gorges du Verdon offers a nice view of the Lac de Sainte-Croix. Start by visiting the friendly village of Aiguines and then join the chapel of Saint-Pierre. GR99 is nearby: follow it to a yellow marked forest path. A viewpoint will offer you to admire one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the region!

Then the fountain of Vaumale is nearby. Continue to follow GR99 to... Wow! A trail in turn offers a breathtaking view of the lake and the Gorges du Verdon. The summit of the Grand Margès is not farther: you are at 1,577 meters above sea level.

The descent is then done quietly to your starting point. This itinerary has a denived frankness and involves getting better and dressed properly.