This stunning canyon is framed by towering cliffs that follow the course of the Saint-Pierre stream. The hiking trails run alongside the gorges before winding through a vast and beautiful coniferous forest. Along the paths, charming rural heritage awaits, with forest huts and a chapel. Depending on your mood or skill level, several routes are available.
File source: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sentier_dans_les_gorges_de_St-Pierre_(Beauvezer).JPGFile source: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sentier_dans_les_gorges_de_St-Pierre_(Beauvezer).JPG|
The Saint-Pierre Gorges
An unforgettable hikeThe Saint-Pierre Gorges Botanical Trail
This short 1-kilometer trail is designed for families, offering an easy and accessible walk, including for children. To start, head to the Saint-Pierre Gorges parking area in Beauvezer, reachable from the hamlet of Villars-Heyssier via a 1.3 km drivable forest road.
The trail showcases trees and plants adapted to the region’s climate, which played a key role in the reforestation efforts undertaken in the early 20th century. You’ll also enjoy views of some of the fortifications built over the centuries, as the Haut Verdon valley was a key entry route into France and needed protection in case of invasion.
Note: this trail is not a loop, so you will need to retrace your steps on the way back.
The Saint-Pierre Gorges and Congerman Huts
This beautiful hike is reserved for more experienced walkers, with an elevation gain of 775 meters and a length of 12.5 kilometers.
The starting point is also at the parking area accessible from the hamlet of Villars-Heyssier. This time, the route invites you to follow the stream for several kilometers, taking a trail carved like a balcony into the rock of the cliffs. The view becomes more spectacular as you ascend.
You’ll climb through switchbacks amid pine trees until you reach the forest huts scattered in the woods. The Congerman refuge offers a well-deserved break, perfect for a picnic or snack with family or friends.
The descent is also through the Saint-Pierre Gorges.
The Saint-Pierre Gorges and Couguyon
Even more spectacular, this 17.3-kilometer hike invites you to ascend through the Saint-Pierre Gorges. You’ll then climb the forested slopes of the mountain to reach the Couguyon Pass, which stands at 2,103 meters in altitude. This hike offers a remarkable variety of landscapes, from the steep cliffs of the gorges to the forested slopes, with isolated cabins or hamlets like the Défens huts along the way.
With an elevation gain of 1,080 meters and steep, sometimes slippery trails, this route is intended for seasoned hikers with solid experience in mountain hiking.
Practical Information
The hamlet of Villars-Heyssier, the starting point of your hike, is located at around 1,310 meters in altitude, and you can reach over 2,000 meters by ascending to the Couguyon Pass. Aside from the more accessible educational trail, the other routes lead through a mountainous area that requires preparation and caution:
- Bring appropriate gear, including hiking boots, a backpack, telescopic hiking poles, warm or rainproof clothing (poncho, emergency blanket, fleece), a hat, and sunglasses.
- Check the weather before setting out, and postpone your hike in the Saint-Pierre Gorges if the weather is likely to worsen.
- Carryan adequate amount of water and energy bars or other snacks (dried fruit, biscuits, etc.).
- Do not hike alone, or make sure to inform others of your planned route.
