Hiking around Quinson: Discover the Gorges du Verdon in a different way
The village of Quinson, located in the Lower Verdon, is a veritable paradise for hikers. Less well known than the spectacular trails of the Grand Canyon du Verdon, this area offers equally fascinating scenery, between limestone cliffs, forests and turquoise rivers.
Quinson is also famous for its Museum of Prehistory, one of the largest of its kind in Europe, and its many archaeological remains.
Here are the best hikes around Quinson to make the most of this wild and unspoilt nature.
1. Le Sentier du Garde-Canal: A hike along the Verdon river
Practical information
- Distance: 9 km (round trip)
- Duration: 3 h 30
- Height gain: slight (+150 m)
- Level: Easy to moderate
- Beaconing: Yellow
Trail description
The Sentier du Garde-Canal is one of the most beautiful trails in the Lower Verdon. It follows an ancient path used by the guardians of the canal which, in the 19th century, carried water from the Verdon to Aix-en-Provence.
🌿 The route follows the river, offering magnificent views of the canyon cliffs. You’ll pass through ancient galleries carved out of the rock, small stone bridges and even a suspended footbridge that adds a touch of adventure.
💡 Tip: This hike is ideal in warm weather, as it follows the river and allows for shady breaks.
2. Sentier de la Chapelle Sainte-Maxime: Panorama of the Verdon river
Practical information
- Distance: 6 km (loop)
- Duration: 2 h 30
- Ascent: +200 m
- Level: Moderate
- Beaconing: Yellow
Trail description
This hike starts in the village of Quinson and climbs to the Chapelle Sainte-Maxime, perched on a plateau.
🔭 Breathtaking views over Lac de Quinson and the surrounding countryside. Once at the top, you can enjoy a 360° panorama of the Verdon, the Valensole plateau and the Pre-Alps.
The return journey is via a balcony trail, offering a totally different perspective on the canyon.
💡 Tip: Ideal for a sunset, as the light over the Verdon is magical.
3. The Neanderthal Trail: Prehistoric hiking
Practical information
- Distance: 7 km (loop)
- Duration: 3 h
- Ascent: +250 m
- Level: Moderate
- Beaconing: Yellow
Trail description
This hike takes you back in time, passing through major prehistoric sites.
🔎 The route passes through several caves where Neanderthal remains have been found. The highlight is the Grotte de la Baume Bonne, a listed archaeological site that bears witness to human occupation over 400,000 years ago!
The trail also offers superb panoramic views of the Gorges du Verdon and the surrounding plains.
💡 Tip: combine this hike with a visit to the Museum of Prehistory for a complete experience.
4. Le Tour du Lac de Quinson : Easy and family-friendly walk
Practical information
- Distance: 5 km (loop)
- Duration: 1 h 30
- Height difference: Low
- Level: Easy
- Beaconing: Yellow
Trail description
Perfect for a walk that’s accessible to all, this trail circles Lac de Quinson, offering a succession of magnificent views over the turquoise waters of the Verdon.
🚣♂️ You can combine the hike with a kayak outing, as the lake is navigable for several kilometers.
💡 Tip: Ideal in summer for alternating hiking and swimming.
Practical tips for hiking around Quinson
Recommended equipment
✔️ Suitable hiking boots
✔️ 2 liters of water per person (especially in summer)
✔️ Cap, sun cream and sunglasses
✔️ Picnic to enjoy the views
✔️ Headlamp if you wish to explore the caves
Best time for hiking
🌸 Spring and autumn: Best seasons, ideal temperatures
☀️ Summer: Possible, but early start recommended
❄️ Winter: Mild climate, perfect for hiking
Safety and Nature Preservation
⚠️ Respect the flora and fauna
🚯 Leave no trace of your passage
🔥 No fires (fire hazard)
Why hike around Quinson?
✅ Varied landscapes: gorges, plateaus, cliffs, rivers
✅ A unique natural and historical heritage
✅ Trails accessible to all abilities
✅ An alternative to the more popular Grand Canyon du Verdon hikes
Whether you’re a fan of grandiose panoramas, a history buff or just a hiker looking for some peace and quiet, the trails around Quinson promise unforgettable discoveries!
