Hiking the Imbut trail, the magic of Verdon

29 October 2020 - Hiking

Hiking the imbut trail, one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Verdon. This route is modeled (or vice versa) on the Day Water Hike route. Indeed, for this activity, we use the same access (the descent of the Cavaliers) and the same exit (the Vidal path). Between the two, you will enjoy a magnificent path offering you spectacular views of the Verdon. In July-August, choose the days except Tuesday and Friday which are the days of water releases. Indeed the water is less beautiful on these days and it is particularly not recommended to take a small swim.

Departures of the Imbut trail hike

In general, everyone leaves from the parking lot of the Hotel du Grand Canyon (Auberge des Cavaliers) on the D71, about 20 minutes from Aiguines. From there, you access the GR 99 about 100 meters below which goes down to the Verdon. Another departure can be made from the Chalet de la Maline located opposite on the Route des Crètes. Small inconvenience, the ascent at the end of the afternoon will be done in full sun.

Progress along the Verdon

The progression is done in the direction of the current, on the left bank. Coming from the latter, turn left when you arrive at the water’s edge. Coming from the right bank, cross the Estellié footbridge then continue on your right. The path can be slippery, be careful. After a progression in the forest, we arrive on the first handrails. A little dizzying passage that leads you to the thousand-year-old juniper. The path goes down to the water’s edge, it is often the perfect place for a lunch break. Continuing, we arrive on the passage of the Styx. A magnificent canyon inside the grand canyon.

We start again on handrails in a passage cut by the force of the man, the Maugué (bad ford). Then we go back towards Chemin Vidal. At the crossroads, turn right, direction Imbut trail. You arrive on Imbut beach, a magnificent pebble beach. The sun is there until around 3:30 p.m. in the best season. You might as well wait with him and regain strength for the ascent. We do not recommend that you venture into the chaos of the Imbut to reach Baou Beni. You can easily fall several meters.

Ascent of the Imbut trail

Retrace your steps to the crossroads of Chemin Vidal. The hardest part of the day then arises. A path sometimes on the side of a cliff but which is always equipped with handrails. Go quietly at your own pace, each step takes you to new heights. Allow about an hour to join the D71. Once at the top, you can either enter through the forest after crossing the road or walk along the latter to still enjoy great views of the canyon.

With the PoteSport app, finish the sport on your own!

6 October 2020 - Our partners

We are already in October, the season is over and the equipment put away until spring 2021 .. It is high time to take over the Verdon Xp blog! What are you going to do now that there is no more rafting in the Verdon? Well you will find friends to play sports without us! And how? With PoteSport app !

The Potesport app

How it works? Do you have to fill out a form? put an ad in the newspaper? Not at all! We are in 2021, use your smartphone! Indeed, PoteSport has developed an application to meet other athletes and share with them. Wherever you are and whatever your level, you will quickly find one or more partners to have fun in your favorite sports.

First of all, PoteSport is an application that you download for free! it helps .. Ultra simple ergonomics. Even those who do not understand it will not need a manual. On weekend vacation or even unemployed, you can meet sports partners and make new discoveries all over France.

Description of the Potesport app

Equipped with a chat device, the application allows you to chat live and quickly organize a next training session. Easy! It’s not over! the PoteSport application also allows geolocation. Indeed, it will be pointless to find partners at the other end of France, the application does it for you. In the notification period, PoteSport keeps you informed of everything that is happening around you at the speed of light, a plus! And then there is also a personal and discreet messaging if you have more things to say to you. PoteSport, the Swiss army knife of applications for sports lovers! And it’s freeeee!

In complete safety

Finally, it is important to note that all your personal data is secured and stored in France by the service provider OVH. None of this data will be used for commercial purposes and outside the PoteSport application.

On your sneakers!

Funny Helmets

Rafting and flora of the Verdon observed

19 June 2020 - Natural environments

To practice a white water activity like rafting on the Verdon is also to discover its flora. In fact, more than 2,000 plant species have been identified in the territory of the PNRV. This represents a third of the number of species that can be found in France. The territory of the Verdon Natural Park represents only a third of a department. That is to say the rich flora which conceals the Verdon! We won’t talk about everything in this modest article. We will focus more specifically on rafting and the flora of the Verdon. In other words, to the flora that we meet while practicing our activities in the Verdon.

The flora in the Grand Canyon, a particular stage

The peculiarities of the microclimate and the reliefs play a huge role in the diversification of environments and species. Upstream of the canyon, there is a classic tiering of flora. First, there is the green oak grove on the edge of the cliffs. Above, there is the white oak, then the beech. Finally, at the top of the slope, there is the beech forest with yew trees.

Once in the canyon, everything reverses! In fact, going down towards the river, the light decreases just like the temperature while the humidity increases. This particular phenomenon leads to an inversion of the vegetation stages. Below the green oak grove encountered on the edge of the canyon, we will therefore find the white oak grove then a beech grove or a maple slope. At the bottom of the canyon, freed from Mediterranean constraints, the yew finds an almost mountain atmosphere.

Protection of the flora that can be found in the Verdon

Knowing how to preserve this flora is a major asset for its protection. This is why we present here some rules of common sense which allow nature to suffer less on our contact.

-A good photo will cross time better than a bouquet that dries in the sun and that sooner or later will end up in the trash.

– Harvest only those plants that can be identified and that can be ensured that they are not protected.

– cut the plants as cleanly as possible using a knife or scissors.

The Funny Helmets

Canyoning Verdon Gorges, the Mainmorte ravine

22 May 2020 - Canyoning Verdon

We are actually talking about Canyoning Gorges du Verdon since the Mainmorte Canyon ends directly in the Grand Canyon du Verdon. It is reached from the spectacular Route des Crêtes in La Pallud-sur-Verdon. Taken by our friends Sébastien, canyon guide we made this adventure in … 2001, maybe 2002 .. The memory remains indelible almost 20 years later.

Access walk and first part

Most of the canyoning courses Gorges du Verdon generally require a good approach. The Mainmorte Canyon is a departure from the rule since after parking our vehicle we walked barely a quarter of an hour before putting down the first rappel. A dry and mineral environment, no chance to come across a drop of water in the middle of summer. We chain two or three small abseils and a small zip line. On the latter, I remember putting my hand on a huge cockroach, I then uttered a cry that frightened everyone.

Last part; the big rappels

After the “cockroach” zip line came the first big rappel. Seb put the rope down and we went down those 20 meters of abseiling one behind the other. We landed on the arrival of the latter, the perfect place for picnic as you can see in the photo. After the meal comes dessert! The famous 40-meter rappel that ends in a spider’s thread above the Verdon. From hanging in the air, we end up in the river. For this purpose, it is advisable to know the level of the river before committing to this recall. Going down while the Verdon rumbles could be very uncomfortable on arrival.

The rise of Mainmorte canyoning

Usually, the “canyoning” colleagues who propose this route then run to the Imbut, the funnel in Provence. The passage is absolutely worth the detour if you have never been there. It is a huge scree area in which the Verdon has found its way over the millennia. The imbut is also the highlight of the Aquatic Day Hike that we offer. To return to the canyoning of Mainmorte, the ascent is then made by the Chemin du Maugué. A fairly dizzying route on the right bank. For our part, Seb decided to innovate and come back up with a voice called “Les crêtes”. Climbing somehow … I remember having a little drooling and this void … always very present.

In conclusion; An exceptional day.

Aqua Trekking – XXL – Verdon Gorges – 2 Days

12 May 2020 - White Water activities

The Big Must of Verdon! Reserved for the most athletic athletes. An XXL Aqua Trekking in the Gorges du Verdon. Swim in the wildest Grand Canyon du Verdon. Over two days which will take you from the Estellier to the Col de l’Olivier. Following on from the Aquatic Day Hike. After the passage of the Imbut, you will discover the very mysterious Verdon Secret!

Detailed description of the XXL Aqua Trekking

Day 1; We meet at La Colle de l’Olivier on the S952. After trying the equipment, we take the vehicles back to the Chalet de la Maline on the dizzying Route des Crêtes from La Pallud-sur-Verdon. 1 hour walk is necessary to reach the edge of the Verdon. Once equipped at the water’s edge, there are magnificent passages, from the Pont de l’Estellier to the Imbut. Almost 4 hours spent in the water and then 1 hour 30 minutes of walking up. We take the time during the day to enjoy a meal (at the expense of each). Shipped in a waterproof container loaned by Verdon Xp.

Day 2; 1h30 walk then we go into the water at the Imbut. Then, we explore the most secret part of the Grand Canyon. No access path possible since the two cliffs fall directly into the Verdon. We end at the Col de l’Olivier.

Night and meal

The main idea was to bivouac in the canyon, at the edge of the water, like real adventurers. Only here, everywhere inside the PNRV, it is forbidden to bivouac in the gorges and at the edge of the lakes. It is therefore imperative to leave the canyon at the end of the first day. To return there on the morning of the second day.

3 solutions proposed for accommodation (evening meal + night + breakfast + picnic the next day) – Not included in the service, to be paid directly;
-Hotel du Grand Canyon from 165 € for 2 people
-Chalet de la Maline from € 60 per person
-The client has their own solution

Prerequisites for the XXL Aqua Trekking

Be in excellent physical shape and very comfortable in the water. Swim shorts + Light T-shirt + Mid-mountain shoes in good condition + 1 bottle of water per person + picnic of day 1.

Tariff and Reservation

For further information on the XXL Aqua Trekking course, go directly to THE Aqua Trekking PAGE on our site.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and the legends of the star

22 April 2020 - Villages of the Verdon

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of the most beautiful villages in France

There is evidence of the presence of man since prehistoric times. The village in the lines we know today, was founded in the 5th century by some monks. At the crossroads of the Gorges du Verdon, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is today perceived as one of the most beautiful villages in France. To this, add the charm of Provence, its lavender, olive trees … and the setting is heavenly. From the village, you can also access some adventure trails. Standing at the foot of imposing cliffs, you can visit Moustiers-Sainte-Marie in the sandstone of its few alleys overflowing with merchants and history.

The village made its reputation in particular thanks to earthenware in the 17th and 18th centuries. A tradition that is still perpetuated today since the village still has a dozen workshops. But also many stores in summer.

The legends of the star

The star of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie hangs on a chain 135 meters long. Stretched between two cliffs about sixty meters above the village. Over the centuries, we forgot the origin and the meaning of this star. This gave rise to some tales and legends.

Among the legends of the star, the most widely distributed being that of the Chevalier de Blacas. Blacasset, grandson of the great Blacas de Blacas the troubadour warrior. A French nobility family which had its stronghold around Aups. He went to the crusades and was taken prisoner by the enemy. Blacasset then swore to hang a sixteen-pointed star, a symbol of his family above Moustiers if he saw his country again. The current star, covered with gold leaf, has only ten branches. Indeed, we learn from the village registers that it has already fallen a dozen times over the past centuries. This legend is in fact a pure fiction of the poet Frederic Mistral and does not reflect any historical link.

Another legend reports that young lovers from enemy families committed suicide in these places so as not to be allowed to love each other. The two grief-stricken families put the chain down and reconciled.

We are talking about the Three Kings but also the Templars who left a clue to find the treasure they were going to hide in the mountains … There are close to twenty legends today around the chain of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie .

Come see it and invent your own!

Verdon Gorges, the essential road trip

15 April 2020 - Villages of the Verdon

The road trip of the Verdon gorges is particularly appreciated. Indeed, many vehicles travel on these roads in summer. We will see here two courses which complement each other and even form a loop. There is no real order to follow, it is up to you.
On these narrow and winding roads, the traffic is generally quite slow, if not very slow. Everything you need to enjoy the scenery! At least, for the passenger or passengers because the driver will always keep both eyes open on the road. Motorcyclists, campers, cars, cyclists and herds of goats, you can be surprised at every turn.

From Castellane to Aiguines by the D71

Allow around 1 hour 20 minutes by car to cover less than 60 km of road. From Castellane, you take the direction of La Pallud on the D952. Shortly before the Taloire bridge, you already go along the Verdon. At the place of Clue St Jean, the road becomes narrower. A quick feature of the Raft and Kayak routes. You pass two campsites then arrive at the junction of the Pont de Soleil. You have to turn left towards Soleils and La Rive Gauche des Gorges du Verdon (D955). The Soleils bakery is a compulsory stop for gourmets.

You cross Soleils then take a right towards Trigance (D90). The village deserves to be seen. A few bends further, you join the departemental road D71 and take on the right. You then cross a desert plateau. In the distance, the Canjuers military camp. You will soon join the Verdon at the Mescla viewpoint, a compulsory stop! Then the Artuby bridge from where you can bungee jump. The road winds through the forest and then passes through the Fayet tunnel dug in 1950. We then arrive at the Hotel du Grand Canyon, our departure for the Aqua Trekking Day course. Another 15 minutes before arriving at Aiguines. Small village of wood turners. From there you join Moustiers which is also worth the detour.

From Moustiers-Sainte-Marie to Castellane by the D952

Allow around 1 hour by car to cover 45 km of road. You retrace your steps towards Aiguines then take a left at the roundabout towards La Pallud-sur-verdon on the D952. The road rises little by little and offers magnificent views of the largest of the Verdon lakes, Lac Sainte-Croix. This very winding road then crosses the site of Saint Maurin. We arrive a little further at the Col de Olivier from where a few hiking routes depart.

A little further; La Pallud from where the Route des Crêtes leaves, the icing on the cake for this day. You continue towards Castellane and pass by Point Sublime. Above is Rougon and below is the Samson Corridor. You continue and descend on the Verdon which you join at the Carajuan Bridge, park, it’s the beach! You will soon arrive at the Pont de Soleils and the circle is complete. Hoping that this road trip made you have a good day.

Rafting in the Aude Gorges, Pyrénées Orientales

9 April 2020 - Our partners

Aude, a varied destination

The Aude is a river located in the Occitanie region. It rises in the Pyrenees Orientales, at 1700 meters above sea level. It flows two hundred kilometers further into the Mediterranean Sea, at the Fleur huts, not far from Narbonne. All along its route, wild parts ideal for fishing will follow one another. But also tumultuous parts, ideal for white water sports. Then quieter parts, ideal for canoeing.

White water sports

Between Axat and Quillan is the Haute Vallée de l’Aude. A must-see destination for whitewater activities such as rafting, hydrospeed (also called whitewater swimming) or canoraft (hot dog). Nearly fourteen kilometers of wild river are adapted to these practices. They are possible from April to September, for everyone from 6 years old.

Une rivière au débit régulé par l’hydro-électricité

Les lacs de montagne (retenue de Puivalador et de Matemale) servent de réservoir aux différentes usines hydro-électriques présentes le long de l’Aude. Ces derniers régulent le débit de la rivière qui reste suffisant même en été pour la pratique du rafting. En effet, ces lacs ont été construits au départ pour augmenter le débit de l’Aude en période de sécheresse car la rivière est aussi utilisée pour l’irrigation et l’alimentation du canal du midi.

Rafting with Oxygen Aventure

From spring, rafting activities on the Aude are possible until the end of September.

Oxygen Aventure is a group of independent instructors whose base is located in Belvianes and Cavirac, near Quillan, at the arrival of the rafting course, along the river. During the rafting descent, it will be possible to descend the gorges of Saint Georges (upstream of Axat) but also the gorges of Pierre Lys (between Saint Martin Lys and Belvianes and Cavirac).

The Funny Helmets.

Verdon and its marvelous lavender landscapes

25 March 2020 - Various articles

The Verdon is surrounded by lavender landscapes. It has existed for more than 2000 years on the shores of the Mediterranean. In France, it is cultivated only in the south-east. In the three departments of the Alpes de Haute Provence, the Drôme and the Vaucluse. It normally flowers from mid-June to mid-July on the Valensole plateau but can last until mid-August in the Dignois and Haut-Verdon regions.

Lavender

It was already praised for its medicinal properties in Antiquity. Lavender essence was also used to maintain the body. His first name; “Lavandula” is then synonymous with body care and cleansing. This plant which particularly appeals to the aristocracy will gradually become popular thanks to cosmetics. It distilled in quantity from the 16th century and gave birth to luxury perfumery from the 19th century.

Lavender and lavandin

“True” or “fine” lavender is more noble than lavandin. It grows between 500 and 1000 meters above sea level and has a long branch with a single flower spike. The fine lavender essential oil from Haute Provence has been classified AOC since 1981.

Lavandin is a hybrid of fine lavender and aspic lavender. The result is a branched branch with three ears larger than fine lavender. Lavandin therefore has a higher yield but has a lighter fragrance than fine lavender. It is harvested every year from the second half of July. A more productive process that allowed the era to meet the high demand from perfumers in Grasse.

Lavender landscape; The Valensole plateau and its blue golden sea

The clay-limestone plateau of Valensole is an ideal place for the cultivation of lavender. It also combines other advantages such as altitude and climate. The Valensole plateau is considered to be the largest lavandin production center in France. Come admire these expanses of lavender which undulate like little oceans. Local bees gather mainly blue flowers and thus make lavender honey. A product widely used on the shelf.

Festivals

lavender landscapes gave rise to lavender festivals. They have sometimes existed for several centuries. This is where all the players in the lavender world met once a year. These festivals therefore had as much an economic as a social interest. They still exist today, not to be missed if you are in the region. Old stills, essential oils, honey … the world of lavender is yours!

The Lavender Corso in Digne. A party that lasts 5 days and has existed since 1939.

Lavender festival in Barême at the end of July

The lavender fair at the end of August in Digne

The Funny Helmets.

With our friends, adventure is everywhere

10 March 2020 - Our partners

Adventure travel! By visiting our friends during a road trip, you certainly make the choice to enhance your vacation with quality activities and adventures

Our friends for adventure in Europe

France

Here is some info and good addresses to enjoy the adventure in France in as many places as possible. come from us!

For travel in France, Europe and worldwide

Discover all the cool things to do around you

Ski touring and Freeride in the Alpes-Maritimes

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Download a free application that will allow you to find “friends” to share your sports moments.

Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airport parking

Orly airport parking

Marseille airport parking

Canyoning, via ferrata, canoeing and rafting around Millau. Discover in particular the Gorges du Tarn, magnificent!

Bungee jumping from the Artuby bridge. Contact us to access a 10% discount

Passerelles des Cimes is a multi-activity park located in Fontaine de Vaucluse.

Tree climbing, trampoline, treasure hunts, police investigation, the possibilities are endless to offer all ages and all desires a moment of relaxation in a pine forest of Provence.

You want to discover an exceptional forest, walk, climb trees, discover animals and plants, relax and distract you a whole day and feel the throbbing heart of the Var?

Canoe Kayak rental and descent of the Gorges de l’Ardèche in Canoe-Kayak

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Gard monitors office. Multi-activities

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Spain

With our friends, some good addresses also in Spain. In summer, it is very hot! We need to go in the water!

Expediciones: Canyoning in Sierra de Guara since 1978

Expediciones and its professional guides make you discover the best canyoning of Sierra de Guara during our daily outdoor activities and adventure trips for each level and publics

Adventure activities: Rafting and kayaking in the Pyrenees in Huesca
Passionate about the river, a magnificent base with swimming pool! A landscape that closely resembles that of the Verdon. In short, go for it!

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With our fiends, some good addresses for Switzerland, the country of the Alps! The traditional fondue accompanied by a glass of white wine is the ideal menu after a good day of adventure

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Activities on the Rhone and elsewhere. The river is our passion.
By rafting or funyak we take you to discover the hidden beauty of the Rhône in Valais, Switzerland.

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