Categories
The hikes

The Blanc Martel trail

The Blanc Martel trail, the hike to discover the Grand Canyon du Verdon

Among the essential hikes to do in the Verdon, do not miss the Blanc Martel trail! Over a day, it will allow you to discover the superb landscapes of the Grand Canyon du Verdon.

Next River , the Sentier Blanc Martel offers you a sublime crossing of the Grand Canyon du Verdon . You will be amazed! Although sporty, regular hikers will not find it too difficult, except for those who fear vertigo.

In summer, it is very popular with tourists.

Starting point: the Maline chalet

To get started, meet in the morning at the starting point located at the chalet de la Maline. From there you will follow a succession of laces to descend to the bed of the Verdon. The paths have a stony surface, and the undergrowth provides shelter from the sun.

Arrived at the level of the Verdon river, you will take on the left. You will then follow the course of the Verdon for several kilometers, punctuated by the sound of the current of its turquoise water … Along the way, you can stop at the white pebble beaches and soak your heated feet in the cool water of the Verdon.

Moreover, towards the end of the trail, you could see groups in the bed of the river equipped with wetsuits, helmets and vests who practice aqua hiking with the Couloir Samson course. Another course further upstream also exists, that of the Pont de Tusset .

Grand canyon du Verdon - cairn beach

The mythical stairs of the Brèche d’Imbert: beware of vertigo!

You will then make a rather intense but short climb of about 150 meters to the Brèche d’Imbert before descending on metal stairs (quite vertiginous …). The hike continues through the “Plage” near Issane, then the Baume aux boeufs and finally the Mescla on the way back down to the Verdon. Finally, you will hike the side of the gorge and enjoy the great views of the Samson Corridor, the narrowest part of the Grand Canyon . Before arriving, you will have 2 tunnels to go through: the Baumes tunnel then the Baou tunnel (670 m).

Finally, you reach the parking lot of Sublime Point , final stage of the hike. In season, return is possible by bus or taxi. Out of season, you can organize to park a vehicle on arrival, or turn around on the course.

You can choose to do this trail in the opposite direction, but think that a climb of 300 meters will be waiting for you at the end of the route! However, this will be the most favorable option for people prone to dizziness.

Practical information to get started

● Markings: red and white GR

● Distance: 16 km

● Positive elevation: 600 m

● Duration: approximately 6 hours

● Trail prohibited for children under 8 and dogs

● Provide at least 2 liters of water per person, good walking shoes and a flashlight for the tunnels.

Tempted by other activities in the Verdon? Come and learn about Trott’Elec by Trott’in Verdon !