A Beautiful Hike with Panoramic Views over Sainte-Croix Lake and Gorges du Verdon
Sommaire de l'article
The hike to the Plein Voir Viewpoint is a demanding 9.85 km loop with 804 m elevation gain, departing from Félines parking. It combines forest passages, exposed limestone ridge and two viewpoints with direct views of Sainte-Croix Lake and the Gorges du Verdon entrance.
Why Choose This Hike?
The Plein Voir Viewpoint is one of the Gorges du Verdon's most dramatic hikes: 1,168 m elevation ridge, 180° view over the lake and cliffs, natural arch as bonus. Yellow blazing is well-maintained but certain passages on Issioule ridge demand attention. Plan water — no supply points on the route. Discover also our top 3 Verdon hikes for other itineraries.
Hike to Plein Voir Viewpoint: The Essentials to Know
The Plein Voir Viewpoint, perched at the Gorges du Verdon's heart, is one of the Regional Natural Park's jewels. This demanding hike offers striking panoramas of Sainte-Croix Lake, Verdon cliffs and Provençal forests. With 804 m elevation gain over 9.85 km, this loop demands good physical fitness, but the visual reward justifies the effort.
Hike Technical Details
- Distance: 9.85 km
- Elevation Gain: 804 m
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Trailhead: Félines Parking, near Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
- Outstanding hike with striking ridge panoramas.
- Yellow blazing is clear and allows easy route-following.
- Certain unsecured passages need attention to prevent fall risk.
- No water points on the route, so plan adequate reserves.
Itinerary for the Plein Voir Viewpoint Hike
The hike is a loop beginning at Félines parking, easily accessible from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. The trail climbs gradually through a pine forest, offering appreciated shade in summer.
Félines Parking Departure: The start is on D952. Take the marked trail that crosses Mediterranean forest, ideal for beginning gently. About 500m from the start, at the first fork called "Bois de Félines," turn right at a path that descends slightly.
Saint-Maurin Cliffs Viewpoint: The Saint-Maurin cliffs offer a splendid panorama of the Gorges du Verdon entrance and Sainte-Croix Lake. It is the ideal moment to take breathtaking photos and take a well-deserved first break.
Saint-Maurin Spring: The trail continues to Saint-Maurin Spring. At this location, take the left fork to begin climbing toward Plein Voir Col. The ascent becomes steeper here.
Climb to Plein Voir Col: Following the trail, you progressively reach the col, peaking at 1,168 m elevation.
The First Viewpoint: An Essential Vista
Upon reaching Plein Voir Col at approximately 1,168 meters elevation, a first stop allows admiring the view of Sainte-Croix Lake and Verdon cliffs.
The Second Viewpoint: The Arch
The hike continues toward a second viewpoint, where one discovers a natural arch. This is where the view unfolds dramatically, with a unique framing over Sainte-Croix Lake below.
Descent via Col de l'Âne: This section is technical and exposed, requiring caution.
Return to Trailhead: The trail returns toward parking along the forest, offering a softer finish for this loop.
Elevation Profile of the Plein Voir Col Belvedere Hike
9.85 km, 804 m elevation gain, two viewpoints, an arch and the lake in view. Plan 5 hours total. Departure from Félines parking (D952, near Moustiers-Sainte-Marie).
Stay at Villa OVerdon
Villa OVerdon is at Aiguines, 30 minutes from Félines parking — directly on Sainte-Croix Lake shore. 3 bedrooms, up to 6 people, private garden with lake view.
Charming house (6 pers., 3 bedrooms, ground floor, 110m² with spacious living area) with panoramic view of Lake Sainte-Croix. Quiet, 2 min walk from the village centre. Preserved nature & ideal base for outdoor activities and tourism.
