Do you know the most beautiful hike in the Verdon? It’s undoubtedly the Imbut Trail! (temporarily closed) To learn everything about this magnificent route, follow the guide… thrills guaranteed!
And to unwind after the adventure, head to L’Oasis du Verdon, a 3-star campsite in the Verdon, less than 10 kilometres from the starting point.
Stretching for nearly 100 kilometres from the Col d’Allos, the Verdon Gorge attracts nature lovers and sports enthusiasts from all over the world. With depths reaching up to 750 metres, these dizzying gorges stand out as the largest canyon in Europe.
To explore magical scenery and get a real adrenaline rush, what could be better than an exceptional hike? The Imbut Trail, winding between steep cliffs, rocky boulders and the Verdon riverbed, is one of the area’s unmissable sporty circuits.
Here are a few key landmarks, along with the route’s unforgettable points of interest.
- Start from Aiguines. Take the steep path along the Cliff of the Cavaliers, which winds down in switchbacks to small stairways clinging to the rock face.
- The Estellié footbridge above the Verdon appears after around 30 minutes of walking. Do not cross it, as it joins the Blanc Martel Trail. Continue along the left bank.
- After a beautiful descent, you’ll be treated to the exceptional sight of pools carved by erosion into the limestone. Swimming in these turquoise, pure waters is forbidden as it is dangerous.
- The route then climbs to more than 50 metres above the Verdon, whose waters alternate between lively rapids and calm stretches. It runs alongside the wide ledges nestled in the middle of the steep cliffs.
- The viewpoint from the ridge near the thousand-year-old thuriferous juniper (an aromatic juniper hidden in a small cave) is absolutely stunning. Below lies the Baouché pebble beach.
- The Styx, a secondary canyon, offers a spectacular landscape. Follow the path to a rocky ridge overlooking the river at nearly 5 metres.
- Maugué Passage, a small unusual cave marking the start of a steep path.
- The Imbut boulder chaos. This pile of rocks to climb is followed by an impressive natural gallery.
- You can continue to Baou Béni, the gateway to the Secret Verdon, a wild paradise where crystal-clear waters enhance the dizzying cliffs.
- And to end the journey, continue to the intersection with the Vidal Trail between boxwood and oak trees. The return is via the same path or by the impressive cliffside ascent.
Although the trail is marked and secured, it remains a dangerous mountain path on the GR®99. The greatest caution is essential, and several precautions should be taken:
- Wear proper shoes (hiking or trail running) and stay alert with every step.
- Bring at least one litre of water per person (two in summer).
- Do not go alone, especially if you are not experienced.
- Choose spring or autumn and avoid rainy days.
The total distance is around 11 kilometres, and the hike usually takes 5 to 6 hours. Its difficulty mainly comes from the significant elevation changes (up to +930 m and downhill). The hike is also not recommended for children under 9 or for people who suffer from vertigo.
All that’s left is to wish you a wonderful walk.
