Old Verdon Canal Trail

The terrain is quite varied, following the route of the historic canal. You'll encounter accessible paths, natural unpaved sections, gravel, and some asphalt. Be prepared for footbridges, stairs, narrow paths along the canal wall, and even sections inside the canal itself. There are also tunnels, some of which are dark and require caution, along with converted stairways in rock and suspension bridges. It's a route where you need to watch where you're putting your feet.

While the trail is classified as 'jogging' on komoot, its varied and sometimes challenging terrain makes continuous, fast-paced jogging difficult. It's generally considered a moderate hike requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. Sections with numerous stairs, footbridges, narrow paths, and dark tunnels mean it's more suited for a combination of power hiking and light jogging where the terrain allows. It's not ideal for beginners looking for an easy run.

The trail offers magnificent views and historical features. You'll follow the Old Verdon Canal, a 19th-century engineering marvel. Highlights include the Sainte-Maxime Chapel and View of the Verdon Gorges, offering panoramic vistas, and stunning views of the Verdon Gorge itself. You'll also pass through the picturesque Basses Gorges du Verdon, an enchanted-looking forest, and a mossy forest trail.

Yes, the route partially overlaps with several other trails. You'll find sections that are part of the Tour du lac d'Esparron, Chemin de Male-Sauque, GR99 Variante, and Les barrages du Verdon.

Specific parking details are not provided in the tour data, but for trails in the Verdon Regional Natural Park, it's common to find designated parking areas near popular trailheads. We recommend checking local maps or park information for the most convenient parking options near the start of the loop.

While many trails in the Verdon Regional Natural Park allow dogs, specific regulations for this particular route are not detailed. Given the varied terrain, including narrow paths, stairs, and tunnels, it's advisable to keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are comfortable with such conditions. Always check the latest park regulations before bringing your dog.

The trail can be enjoyed during many seasons, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. In winter, some areas can be slippery, and slopes on the plateau might be muddy. Summer can be very hot, so an early start is recommended if visiting during peak season.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within the Verdon Regional Natural Park, including the Old Verdon Canal loop. However, it's always good practice to check the official park website for any updated regulations or specific fees for certain activities or protected areas within the park.

The Verdon Regional Natural Park is rich in biodiversity. Along this trail, you might spot various bird species, including the majestic golden eagle. The disused tunnels also provide a habitat for bats, offering a unique wildlife viewing opportunity.

Given the varied terrain and potential for dark tunnels, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, a headlamp or flashlight for the tunnels, sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate clothing for the weather. A map or GPS device is also advisable, and trekking poles can be helpful for stability on uneven sections.

While the komoot tour suggests a jogging duration of about 72 minutes, the varied and challenging terrain means it's more realistically a 2 to 3.5-hour hike for most people. If you plan to jog, expect to combine it with power hiking, especially through sections with stairs, footbridges, and tunnels.