In the heart of the Verdon Regional Natural Park, the Blanc-Martel trail is an essential hiking route in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. It is also the only major route along the floor of the Verdon Gorge. But its one-way route, elevation changes and technical sections demand good preparation. Find out what you need to know before setting off.
Blanc-Martel trail: key facts
Blanc-Martel trail: key figures
- Distance: 15 km
- Elevation change: 1,000 m D+ / 1,000 m D- total
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Difficulty: moderate to difficult
The Blanc-Martel trail is a 15 km one-way route that follows part of the GR4. Its duration and elevation changes make it suitable for walkers in good physical condition. The hiking route includes some technical sections but does not require climbing.
Which direction should you take on the Blanc-Martel trail?
You can walk the trail in either direction. The classic, recommended route starts at the Chalet de la Maline and finishes at Point Sublime. There are several reasons for this. First, the elevation profile is more favourable: it is better to descend the 400 metres between the Chalet de la Maline and the Verdon than to climb them at the end of your hiking, after 15 km on foot. Second, descending the famous metal steps is easier in this direction and gives you a particularly impressive view. Finally, the official shuttle runs in the direction of this route.
Points of interest along the trail
The Blanc-Martel trail passes several landmarks. Shortly after the start, the Pas d'Issane offers a first spectacular view of the cliffs of the Verdon Gorge. The hiking continues to the Brèche d'Imbert, the trail’s best-known section. Here, you descend six metal stairways through an impressive cleft. Shortly before the finish, you pass through two tunnels: the Trescaïre tunnel, around 100 metres long, then the Baou tunnel, around 670 metres long.
As well as the sights along the trail, you can make a 20-minute return trip to the Estellié footbridge. It crosses the Verdon and is a landmark on the route. You can also visit La Mescla on a 30- to 45-minute return trip. It offers an impressive view of where the Verdon and Artuby rivers meet.
Essential logistics: shuttle and parking
The Blanc-Martel trail is not a circular hike, so planning your trip carefully is essential. To help with this, a shuttle service is available. You can park for free in the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon. The shuttle takes you to the Chalet de la Maline in the morning and picks you up at Point Sublime in the afternoon.
The Blanc-Martel shuttle generally runs from late April to early November. Booking is required. A return ticket costs €8.50 per adult and €5.50 per child under 12. You can also reach the start of the trail on regional bus route 450.
Another option is to park at the finish, at Point Sublime, then take a taxi to the Chalet de la Maline. Once your hiking is done, your car is ready for the journey home. This option is fairly expensive, however, as parking is charged during peak season.
Practical advice: equipment and the best time to go
Good planning makes for a successful hiking trip on the Blanc-Martel trail. First, dress appropriately. Choose hiking clothing suited to the weather forecast and wear hiking shoes with good grip.
Carry enough water: there are no drinking-water points along the route. In summer, temperatures can easily exceed 30°C, and many sections of the hiking route are exposed to the sun. In very hot weather, we recommend carrying at least 3 litres of water per person in your hiking backpacks.
The route passes through two tunnels, including the Baou tunnel, which is almost completely dark. To find your way through, a head torch or handheld torch is essential. Your phone’s torch may help in a pinch, but it provides limited light and drains the battery quickly.
Finally, avoid heatwaves when hiking in the Verdon Gorge. If you go in summer, account for the intense heat and any restrictions on access to forested areas. Heavy rain or thunderstorms can also make some sections slippery and increase the risk of flooding on the Verdon. Ideally, go in spring or autumn, when temperatures are more comfortable for hiking.
More trails to explore in the Verdon
The Plein Voir circuit via the Col de l'Âne and Saint-Maurin
- Distance: 11.5 km
- Elevation gain: 800 m D+
- Duration: 5 hours
- Level: difficult
After the Blanc-Martel trail, keen walkers can take on the Plein Voir circuit via the Col de l'Âne and Saint-Maurin. This circular route starts at the Félines car park. It begins with a steep climb to the Col de l'Âne. Once on the ridge, the Plein Voir viewpoint reveals a breathtaking panorama. It looks down over the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix and the mouth of the Verdon’s Grand Canyon. The descent then follows the mountainside to the Saint-Maurin nature reserve and its cave dwellings.
The Plein Voir circuit via the Col de l'Âne and Saint-Maurin is for experienced walkers only. Its exposed traverse includes sections with steep drops, one of which has a handrail.
The Couloir Samson
- Distance: 4 km
- Elevation gain: 200 m D+
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Difficulty: easy
For families with young children interested in the Blanc-Martel trail, the Couloir Samson is a good alternative. This 4 km out-and-back walk starts at the Couloir Samson car park. A viewpoint first gives you a view down into the narrow entrance to the canyon. The trail then descends to the water’s edge.
The route passes through the two Blanc-Martel tunnels, including the Baou tunnel. From there, walk for a few minutes to reach the Baume aux Pigeons, an impressive cave with an unspoilt view of the Verdon. Then retrace your steps to the start of the hiking route.
After exploring the Verdon, fans of great canyons can also go hiking in Ardèche to discover more of southern France’s iconic gorges.
What mistakes should you avoid on the Blanc-Martel trail?
Planning is essential before taking on the Blanc-Martel trail. Don’t leave it too late to book the shuttle in peak season. In July and August, seats are limited and can be fully booked several days in advance. Book as soon as you can, or you may have to postpone your hiking or take a taxi.
Although this hiking route involves no climbing, it is not suitable for everyone. It is long and physically demanding, with some technical sections. For this reason, it is not recommended for children under eight or people who suffer from vertigo. Dogs are also prohibited, even on a lead, to protect local species and for safety reasons.
Finally, afternoons at the bottom of the canyon can be very hot. Setting off too late in the morning is a bad idea. You risk finishing your hiking in intense heat or arriving after the last shuttle has left. Aim to set off early instead.
The Blanc-Martel trail is more than a simple hiking route. Its length, elevation changes and technical sections call for good fitness, suitable equipment and careful logistical planning. Get those right, and you can fully enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Verdon Gorge.
