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Set off to discover the legendary and unmissable trail in the Verdon Gorge. Just one hour’s drive from L’Oasis du Verdon campsite, the Blanc-Martel Trail is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful hikes in France. It’s a feast for the eyes from start to finish!
The Martel Trail is a thrilling mix of tunnels, aerial ladders, vertigo-inducing views down into the void, and towering vertical cliffs. Equipped by the Tourning Club de France in 1926, it crosses a vertical breach via 80 metres of metal staircases up to the Chalet de la Maline. In fact, the original trail runs below the shelter and was first explored in 1905 by Édouard Alfred Martel and Isidore Blanc. Several adventurers joined them on this unforgettable journey.
To this day, some descendants of these explorers still live in the area. It’s also worth noting that the film Verdon Secret recounts this story in detail. The Martel Trail is not particularly difficult overall, but the most challenging section remains the 6 Imbert ladders with their 252 steps. As a result, this trail can be difficult for hikers who suffer from vertigo.
The Martel hike usually starts from the Chalet de la Maline. The trail is made up of five main sections, ranging from the easiest to the most demanding. These include the Baumes Fères and Pré d’Issane route, La Mescla and the Imbert Breach, L’Escalès, and the tunnels of the Samson Corridor.
The descent from the Chalet de la Maline down to the Verdon takes around 45 minutes and is perfect for families and beginners. For a bit more of a challenge, Pré d’Issane lets you admire caves during a 3-hour walk. More adventurous hikers can choose La Mescla and L’Escalès, two stunning routes lasting around 4 hours. Along the way, you’ll spot the bridge on the left bank, where you can even try bungee jumping. Finally, for experienced hikers, the tunnels of the Samson Corridor offer a 6-hour route. On the way, you’ll reach the Trescaïre Towers viewpoint. Shortly after, you’ll come to the series of tunnels. You’ll catch sight of the Verdon and its breathtaking view over La Baume aux Pigeons.
How can you reach the start of the Blanc Martel Trail without a car? The answer is quite simple! All you need to do is contact the transport service provided by the Verdon Regional Natural Park. Since the trail is not a loop, the Blanc-Martel shuttle allows you to travel between the start and finish points without using multiple cars. The morning shuttle stops at 8:30 am in La Palud and arrives at 8:40 am at the Chalet de la Maline. In the afternoon, another shuttle departs at 4:00 pm from La Palud and arrives at 4:20 pm at the trailhead.
All year round, the shuttle runs on weekends and public holidays. From 1 July to 25 September, you can book it every day. As for fares, a return ticket costs €8 for adults and €5 for children.
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