Trail Running in the Verdon: 4 Routes to Try!
Lace up your shoes! The region home to Europe’s largest canyon is ready to challenge you! To conquer this exceptional terrain on a trail run in the Verdon, discover 4 routes that will satisfy your desire to run in the great outdoors! These trails are located near our campground in the Verdon, nestled in the heart of the Regional Nature Park.
Technical Summary of Your Adventure
To help you picture your next adventure, here is a summary table of the options available to you.
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Trail No. 5: Plein Voir | 23 km | Difficult |
| Trail No. 3: Lake Sainte-Croix | 13 km | Medium |
| Bauduen Tower | 15.55 km | Medium |
| Vaumale Cirque | 17 km | Difficult |
Why go trail running in the Verdon?
Trail running in the Verdon isn’t just about running—it’s about immersing yourself, body and soul, in the surroundings of the Gorges du Verdon!
A challenging and inspiring training ground
Here, every step feels like an adventure. The limestone cliffs rise up to 700 meters high, creating a landscape where verticality reigns supreme. This dizzying setting sets the tone: steep climbs, technical descents, and rocky trails.
It puts your technique and endurance to the test. So, for trail runners looking for a challenge, the Verdon is a performance lab!
A Sensory Journey Through Provence
In addition to being a beautiful place to run, the Verdon offers runners a unique sensory experience. Between pine groves, the scent of thyme and lavender, and sun-drenched, arid plateaus, the region exudes an energy that is both raw and soothing. Here, nature becomes your running partner.
Lake Sainte-Croix: The Ultimate Reward
After all that effort, the magic begins! Lake Sainte-Croix comes into view as you round a bend on your trail run through the Verdon. Its turquoise waters contrast with the pale rock of the gorges, treating you to a panoramic view that washes away your fatigue.
A Renowned Trail Running Destination
The Verdon is part of the Provence Trail Challenge and hosts premier events such as the Var Verdon Trail Canyon and the Roc’n Trail Verdon. It is a highly regarded destination for trail running, where the challenging terrain meets the beauty of the landscape.
The 4 Best Hiking Trails in the Verdon, Not Far from Our Campground
The Verdon region offers a variety of trail runs to satisfy even the most demanding runners, from challenging climbs to quick escapes along the lake. Get ready to put your strength to the test!
The Plein Voir Challenge: The Trail Running Experts’ Test
If you’re looking for a great test of strength and endurance, Trail No. 5 at Plein Voir is the activity for you!
The route starts at the Maïre parking lot, 32 km from the campground. It begins with a stop at the Maison du Parc roundabout, followed by a major climb toward the Col de l’Âne and Col de Plein Voir. After this first climb, you’ll begin a descent toward Saint-Maurin and the Bois de Félines. Expect conditions similar to those found in high mountains, including:
- Sections with steep gradients (steep ascents and descents).
- Rocky, root-strewn sections—typical of the Verdon—add to the technical challenge.
- The final leg of the return trip includes a steep descent of more than 3.5 km back to the Maison du Parc.
The technical demands of the terrain call for a cautious pace.
Distance: 23 km – Duration: about 4 hours – Elevation gain: +1,650 m – Difficulty: difficult.
Trail Challenge No. 3: Between Venascle and Lake Sainte-Croix
Set off to explore the Roman road and Venascle, a circular route that also starts from the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, 30 km from your accommodation. You’ll start with a fairly steep climb. The view then opens up onto Lake Sainte-Croix and the Verdon cliffs. After this welcome climb, the descent begins with a lovely series of rhythmic bends that take you back towards the village. This enjoyable route skilfully combines climbs, sprints and descents, making it perfect for exploring the Verdon, this beautiful adventure destination in Provence.
Distance: 13 km – Duration: about 2 hours 30 minutes – Elevation gain: +388 m – Difficulty: moderate.
The Blue Escape: The Bauduen Tour, Between the Lake and the Hills of Provence
The Bauduen Loop is the perfect route to stretch your legs while keeping the spirit of adventure alive!
The trail begins 16.8 km from the campground, in the picturesque village of Bauduen, perched on the southern shore of Lake Sainte-Croix. From the very first steps, the scenery captivates you: cobblestone streets and the scents of the garrigue. The trail soon climbs gently through holm oaks and pine forests, offering magnificent views of the lake.
Along the route, you’ll run along the heights of Le Défens, pass by lavender fields, and enjoy sweeping views of the Haut-Var plateaus. The terrain—rolling and even—encourages a steady pace. This trail in the Verdon promises a chance to breathe, push yourself, and take in the scenery.
Distance: 15.55 km – Duration: about 5 hours – Elevation gain: +437 m – Difficulty: Moderate.
From the gentle slopes of Aiguines to the challenging terrain of the Cirque de Vaumale
Get ready for a real adrenaline rush on the Cirque de Vaumale Trail, which starts in the village of Aiguines, 21 km from our campground. You’ll start by winding through the narrow Provençal streets, then a trail will lead you to the first aid station at the Col d’Iloire. Next, it’s time for the descent! Technical and challenging, it takes you deep into the Cirque de Vaumale, with sections that are secure but demanding.
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Next, it’s back to the challenge with a climb to the summit of Grand Margès at an elevation of 1,565 m. The panoramic view of the Mediterranean and the Alps makes every challenge worthwhile. The final descent takes you back to Aiguines, with your quadriceps thoroughly worked and your eyes full of memories.
Distance: 17 km – Duration: about 2½ to 3 hours – Elevation gain: ≈ +1,200 – Difficulty: difficult.
Do you feel the powerful call of trail running in the Verdon? Then book your stay today at Camping L’Oasis du Verdon in Aups—your go-to partner for combining physical challenges with 4-star comfort!
