Introduction
Verdon Aquatic Hike
The Imbut aquatic hike is a true natural wonder. The scenery is simply breathtaking. You will discover the central part of the Verdon Gorges by passing through the Styx, the Estellier footbridge and the Imbut boulder chaos. You will also have the opportunity to enter a cave and test your courage.
The Verdon aquatic hike offers numerous jumps into crystal-clear turquoise water. This fun-filled adventure combines riverside hiking, swimming through safe rapids and jumping from rocks.
Since the closure of the Vidal Trail on the left bank, we now offer the Imbut aquatic hike via the right bank. The return trail is much more technical, combining hiking and scrambling. You must not be afraid of heights to take part in this adventure.
Important: the Verdon River flow varies depending on water releases from an upstream EDF dam. This hike is only possible when water levels and flow conditions allow.
How the Day Unfolds
Verdon Aquatic Hike
The meeting point is on the Route des Crêtes, at the Maughé viewpoint, not far from Chalet de la Maline, at the GPS coordinates indicated below. There you will meet your guide. The day begins with the distribution of the technical equipment before descending into the Grand Canyon of the Verdon via the beginning of the Blanc-Martel Trail.
The adventure starts beneath the Estellier footbridge. You will make your way to the Imbut boulder chaos via the Styx. The return to the parking area is much more demanding, following the steep Maughé Trail. This trail, halfway between hiking and scrambling, is very physically demanding. Since the closure of the Cavaliers Trail, the Verdon aquatic hike is recommended only for experienced and physically fit participants.
Level: Difficult
The Imbut aquatic hike is a full-day activity requiring an excellent level of fitness. No jumps are compulsory, but you must be comfortable in the water and able to swim through rapids. The main challenge is the ascent back to the parking area: it is essential to have no fear of heights and to be in excellent physical condition.
Where is the Verdon Aquatic Hike Located?
The meeting point is located at the Maughé viewpoint, not far from Chalet de la Maline, on the right bank of the Verdon Gorges. The GPS coordinates are:
43.7560, 6.3203 (decimal degrees)
43°45'21.9"N 6°19'13.1"E (degrees, minutes, seconds).
From Castellane, follow the Gorges road towards La Palud-sur-Verdon. In La Palud-sur-Verdon, take the road towards Chalet de la Maline. Park at the GPS location indicated above.
Notes
If you need help finding the parking area, you can visit our Getting Here page.