Rock Climbing in the Verdon Gorge

Rock climbing in the Verdon—sure, but for whom?

Are you looking forthings to do in the Verdon? A top destination for climbing and via ferrata enthusiasts, the Verdon Gorge is also the perfect place to get started in the sport or simply learn the basics of climbing with your family.

Whether you’re a beginner climber or an experienced sport climber or mountaineer looking to improve your skills, you can enjoy rock climbing in complete safety in the Verdon.

Climbing routes and trails for all skill levels have been set up on the cliffs and rock faces of the canyon. It’s an extraordinary experience, offering breathtaking landscapes to discover from unique vantage points.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, very athletic or not so much, a child or an adult, rock climbing in the Verdon is an activity for everyone. Discover the multi-pitch routes on a high-mountain climb. For your safety, consult a guidebook for the climbing site you choose.

Where can you go rock climbing in the Gorges du Verdon?

If you’re already an experienced climber or if you’re working with local instructors, you can explore one of these must-climb routes in the Verdon—depending on your skill level:

La Demande à l’Escalès: a legendary crack in the Verdon, the true Holy Grail for 6a climbers.
At 350 meters long, it is the longest route in the Verdon Gorges, first climbed in 1968.
The “Arête de la Patte de Chèvre” at the Col des Félines: ideal for beginners, this route requires neither rappelling to access nor to exit.
Consisting of 7 pitches ranging from 4c to 5b+, it is very well bolted and offers a breathtaking view of Lake Sainte-Croix.
Farewell, Zidane, at Galetas: a route opened in 2002 at the entrance to the gorge, overlooking the scene of pedal boats, paddleboards, and canoes setting off from the Galetas Bridge.
Almost no approach hike, one rappel, and a magnificent view for this route, which isn’t too difficult but features a few 6a moves.

L’usage du monde in Mainmorte: a 5-pitch route open to all, established in 2018, L’usage du monde is an ideal spot to get started on multi-pitch climbing.
Access to the route is downhill via the Mainmorte via cordata. A perfect route for 5b/c climbers, set in a wild landscape.
No warm-up for Hervé at the Dent d’Aire: opened in 2007, this technical multi-pitch route offers the chance to tackle 6a pitches.
Access to the route requires 4 rappels, followed by a short walk at the base of the cliffs. Five varied pitches await you next. The exit is via the three pitches of the “Petit Chat” route, located at the same site.
Bwana Maline at Moyen Eycharme: a 5c route consisting of 4 beautiful pitches covering 50 meters in height, first climbed in 1994.
It is accessible via a 50-meter rappel and takes about half a day to climb.
Pleasant even in summer, it is shaded in the afternoons.

Via ferrata in the Verdon Gorges

A via ferrata consists of an overhead system of cables and metal ladders that form a route along the rock face. These routes along cliff faces or mountainsides are completely safe for users and are perfect for a gentle introduction to rock climbing.

A via ferrata also offers a thrilling activity that doesn’t require any special technical skills—it’s a cross between hiking and rock climbing. It’s a chance to experience the thrill of heights and enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon.

A via ferrata is a fun activity that features many different challenges set in the great outdoors: zip lines, rope bridges, balance beams, metal steps, and traverses along narrow ledges. Explore limestone cliffs, rocky outcrops, and rocky gorges on a secure adventure course thanks to rope belaying.

The Verdon offers routes for all skill levels, including introductory climbing routes and family-friendly routes where children can climb on rocks in complete safety.
A truly unique way to experience the Grand Canyon!

Paragliding in the Verdon Hikes starting from the campground