In brief
- Legendary trek in the heart of the Gorges du Verdon, along the famous Blanc-Martel Path
- Departure from the Chalet de la Maline, arrival at Couloir Samson
- 13.6 km – 7 hours and 30 minutes of walking – elevation gain +1266 m / -1522 m
- Metal stairs, dark tunnels, dizzying viewpoints
- Points of interest: Estellier footbridge, Mescla, Tours de Trescaïre
- Bring a headlamp, warm clothing, water reserve
- Shuttle recommended for the return or organize with two vehicles
The Blanc-Martel Path, traversed by thousands of hikers each year, stretches between cliffs and depth in one of Europe’s largest canyons: the Gorges du Verdon. This iconic trail combines physical effort, scenic emotion, and technical passages, all in a raw and spectacular nature.
A departure on the edge of emptiness
The departure takes place from the Chalet de la Maline, at an altitude of 893 meters. A few spots allow parking along the Route des Crêtes. The path begins with a descent, plunging into the bed of the Verdon, by the well-marked GR®4. A fork appears quickly.
The Estellier footbridge, the first gem of the route
A turn to the right leads to the Estellier footbridge, suspended above the powerful waters of the Verdon. A place of contrast between rock and water, this passage offers an impressive view of the canyon, to be observed from both banks. After the round trip, the hike continues along the course of the Verdon through dense vegetation.
Between cliffs, woods, and confluence
As we progress, the Pré d’Issane and Étroit des Cavaliers unveil a rocky corridor carved by erosion. The atmosphere becomes wilder, marked by the eboulis de Guègues and the Baume aux Bœufs, a vast natural cave. A fork then allows you to reach the Mescla, where the waters of the Artuby join the Verdon in a peaceful hollow of deep green.
Suspended stairs and dizzying cliffs
The Brèche Imbert sector requires a technical descent down about 250 metal steps fixed between the walls. Some hikers prefer to descend backwards, so impressive is the void. Below, the path winds down to the Baume aux Chiens, then temporarily widens at a pebble beach, a perfect spot for a break.
The majesty of the Tours de Trescaïre
As you gain height again, the Tours de Trescaïre appear on the other side of the canyon: limestone needles rising into the sky. The circular flight of vultures, soaring above your heads, completes this spectacular scene.
Final underground segment through the Verdon tunnels
The last part of the route crosses three successive tunnels. The Tunnel des Baumes, a remnant of past works, is bypassed. The Tunnel du Trescaire (110 m) and the Tunnel du Baou (670 m, curved) are traversed with a headlamp. These dark and humid passages offer a mysterious atmosphere before the final climb to the Couloir Samson parking lot, the end of the hike.
Practical Information
Access and organization
- Starting point: Chalet de la Maline (commune of La Palud-sur-Verdon, 04120)
- Destination point: Couloir Samson (Route D23a)
- Distance: 13.63 km
- Average duration: 7 hours 30 minutes
- Elevation: +1266 m / -1522 m
- Difficulty: high (rough terrain, stairs, tunnels)
It is advisable to arrive early, especially to find a parking spot. To limit logistical constraints, leaving one vehicle at the destination allows for a smoother return. During the summer, the trail is very busy in the afternoon.
Recommended equipment
- Sturdy-soled hiking shoes
- Warm jacket (especially for the tunnels)
- Headlamp
- Sufficient water reserve
- Walking sticks recommended in slippery or steep areas
To avoid
- Untrained children for hiking
- Unstable weather conditions (heavy rains, storms)
Notable points along the route
| Mileage | Altitude | Location/Event |
|---|---|---|
| 0 km | 893 m | Departure from Chalet de la Maline |
| 2.3 km | 545 m | Estellier footbridge |
| 6.5 km | 564 m | Site of Mescla |
| 8.7 km | 590 m | Pebble beach |
| 13 km | 725 m | Tunnels (Trescaire and Baou) |
| 13.63 km | 644 m | Arrival at Couloir Samson |
A must-see itinerary in the Southern Alps
The Blanc-Martel path in the Gorges du Verdon represents one of the jewels of the Provençal natural heritage. Between steep cliffs, suspended passages, and the silence of the tunnels, it offers an unforgettable hike to all those seeking immersion in the heart of raw and majestic landscapes.
