River Trekking in Samson Trescaire in the Verdon Gorge (from 12y.)

About the Activity

What to Expect

Come for a full day of adventure during our "Samson-Trescaire" river trekking in the Verdon gorge. Your experience begins at our base in Castellane, where you will gear up with all necessary equipment and prepare your packs. We provide waterproof jerrycans and canyon bags to safely carry your picnic and drinks. Once ready, you will travel by minibus to Point Sublime, enjoying the scenic route while we handle the driving. Upon arrival, a short five-minute walk will lead you to the riverbed where the real fun starts. After a quick check of your watertight containers, you will plunge into the water at a small beach at the foot of Point Sublime.

As you begin your aquatic hike, you will navigate calm waters through the stunning Couloir Samson, surrounded by majestic cliffs and the famous climbing site, ‘Le Grand Duc’. Here, you will have the option to try a jump from the first boulder, although it is not mandatory. Twenty minutes into the trek, you will approach the Baume aux Pigeons cave, where the currents start to increase. With the guidance of your experienced guide, you will venture into the first labyrinth, skillfully slaloming between boulders and utilizing counter-currents to navigate through siphons and giant potholes. Keep an eye out for griffon vultures as you exit the water near the Trescaire towers, where the canyon opens up, revealing spectacular views.

After a well-deserved picnic on a sunny beach, you will have a chance to rest or take a refreshing swim before continuing your adventure. The next two hours will take you through a wilder and more secluded section, offering more opportunities for jumping off optional cliffs and swimming through thrilling rapids. Your return journey involves a walk along the Blanc-Martel trail, passing through two long tunnels carved into the rock in the early 20th century. The day concludes with a relaxing minibus ride back to Castellane, where you can reflect on the day's adventures.

Tour facts

• Canyon: Verdon Gorge

• Difficulty level: Intermediate

• Total duration: 6 h

• Time in canyon: 4 h

How to Get There

• Meeting place: at our base in Castellane

• Meeting time: 10 minutes before departure

• Car parks nearby: at the meeting place (free)

Included Services

• Certified canyoning guide

• Complete high-quality canyoning equipment (incl. helmet and wetsuit)

Requirements

• Minimum age: 12/13 years

• Minimum age to participate alone: 14 years

• Good swimming ability

• Minimum height: 150 cm

• Minimum weight: 45 kg

Bring Along

• Water (1,5 liters)

• Swimsuit

• Sport shoes

• Picnic

• Snacks

Good to Know

• Not suitable for toddlers, pregnant women and the elderly

• In case bad weather prevents the activity from taking place, you will receive a full refund or be able to reschedule the activity

• It is compulsory to bring your own drinks and snacks