Verdon Gorge Adventure
Experience stunning views, challenging trails, and Provencal village charm.
Lifetime Deposit
Self-Guided
Verdon Gorge Adventure Overview
The Verdon Gorge Hike takes you through one of Europe’s most stunning canyons, featuring the famous Blanc-Martel trail. You'll navigate rocky paths, tunnels, and ladders while enjoying dramatic views of limestone cliffs and emerald waters. This self-guided adventure allows you to explore at your own pace, with well-marked trails guiding you through the stunning landscapes of Southern France.
Along the way, you'll visit picturesque Provencal villages and taste local specialties like truffles and goats' cheese. The tour offers excellent bird watching opportunities, with vultures soaring above. While physically demanding, especially on steep terrain, the experience offers incredible rewards, perfect for experienced hikers seeking adventure and nature.
Trip highlights
Hike through the iconic Blanc-Martel trail in Verdon Gorge.
Enjoy dramatic landscapes with cliffs, tunnels, and panoramic views.
Discover picturesque Provencal villages and taste local specialties.
Experience the thrill of challenging trails and pristine nature.
Day By Day Itinerary
Arrive in Castellane by your own means, a picturesque medieval village nestled at the foot of a limestone block, Le Roc. Depending on your arrival time, you can take a short walk to visit the Notre Dame du Roc chapel and the remains of Petra Castellane, offering breathtaking views of the valley.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Castellane
- Distance:
- 1h45, 5km, +/- 250m
- Meals:
- None
Follow the GR4 trail from Castellane, an ancient Roman road - now a country path that winds along the heights of the Verdon valley. The trail gradually ascends, leading you to the small shepherd village of Chasteuil, the perfect spot for a picnic. Afterward, continue through the high limestone moors and pastures, descending toward Rougon and reaching the famous Sublime Point, offering breathtaking views of the Verdon Gorge.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Point Sublime
- Distance:
- 5h, 21km, +/- 700m
- Meals:
- Breakfast, dinner
Take a short transfer to the starting point at La Maline for the famous Blanc-Martel trail. This iconic route through the cliffs of the Verdon Gorge is a must-see, following the path first explored by Edouard Alfred Martel in 1905. As you descend into the gorge, you’ll follow the river to Point Sublime.
Along the way, you’ll encounter Brèche Imbert, a steep section with six metal ladders and 252 steps, not recommended for those with a fear of heights. You’ll also pass through the tunnels of Trescaire and Baou, so be sure to bring a torch or headlamp and a warm jacket. This is a long but unforgettable hiking experience!
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Point Sublime
- Distance:
- 6h, 14 km, +900m/- 800m
- Meals:
- Breakfast, dinner
Today’s hike takes you across the Verdon’s riverbed via an ancient Roman bridge. After passing the left bank, you’ll ascend toward the hamlet of Entreverges. Upon reaching the Rancoumas lookout at 981 meters, you'll enjoy stunning views of the Verdon below. Continuing along the cliff, you’ll reach Trigance, a charming Provencal village dominated by a historic 11th-century feudal building with four towers, which can be visited. You’ll also have the option to explore the botanical trail, showcasing the diverse flora of the Var highlands.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Trigance
- Distance:
- 4h, 10 km, +630m/- 640m. Additional loop to the Mont Breis summit: 1.5km climb, +/- 230m
- Meals:
- Breakfast
On your final hike, you’ll cross the gorges and Jabron Valley, passing the green waters of the Verdon at the Pont de Carajuan, the gateway to the spectacular Verdon Gorge. Following the river, you’ll begin a steady ascent to the Col du Pertuis de la Colle at 1151m, an ideal spot for a picnic with panoramic 360° views of the surrounding region. Afterward, you’ll descend through a beautiful state forest, making your way back to Castellane to complete your adventure.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Castellane
- Distance:
- 5h30, 19 km, +570m/- 640m
- Meals:
- Breakfast
The trip ends after breakfast, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable hiking adventure through the Verdon Gorge.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 5 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included.
- Accommodations for 5 nights are included.
- Transportation for you and your luggage are included throughout the tour.
- Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
- All transfers listed in the program
- Luggage transfer
- Road Book with detailed walking itineraries, including highlighted maps
- 24/7 phone assistance
- Luggage Transfers
Not included
- Transport to Castellane
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired
- Travel insurance
- Entrance fees where applicable
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Optional activities or excursions
Reviews
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These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
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FAQ
We rate this tour as a 3/5. The terrain is steep and rocky, requiring a good level of fitness and experience with mountain hiking. The Blanc-Martel trail includes technical features like metal ladders and tunnels, making it not recommended for those with a fear of heights. The hikes are long (5-7 hours) with significant elevation changes, adding to the physical demands of the tour.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
5 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover all the activities listed on the tour. Get your travel insurance.
You can reach Castellane by taking a direct bus from Nice. Nice is the closest major city with an international airport (Nice Côte d'Azur Airport), making it the most convenient entry point for travelers. From Nice, you can catch a regional bus that connects to Castellane. Alternatively, if you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car and drive to Castellane, which takes about 2 hours via scenic mountain roads.
This is a self-guided tour where guide services are not provided, however, you will be provided all the tour material in English, as well as a helpline phone number.
The tour ends in Castellane.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book Verdon Gorge Adventure with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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