Blue secret

Self-guided packrafting adventure around Lake Castillon

Blue secret

Informations about the adventure

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2 days from 9am to 4pm

From €120

level 2/4

Castellane

From 1 to 8 people maximum

How about spending two days discovering the Verdon in a different way, away from the crowds, close to nature?

This is a peaceful and flexible adventure in a quieter part of the Verdon.
No crowded gorges, instead, enjoy the clear waters of Lake Castillon, small hilltop villages, and quiet little coves where you can feel truly alone in nature.

Just as beautiful as the famous Lake Sainte-Croix, but calmer, more intimate, and still preserved from mass tourism.

You’ll walk along scenic trails, paddle across the lake in a packraft, and explore hidden places all at your own pace, without pressure.

This trip is perfect for those who want to explore freely, relax in nature, and enjoy the Verdon in a different way: peaceful, authentic, and off the beaten path.

Trip overview:

A two-day loop combining hiking and packrafting every day, through beautiful and untouched landscapes.
In the evening, you’ll stay in a quiet, eco-friendly campsite simple and comfortable, just by the lake.

Perfect for:

– Couples looking for nature and quiet
– Friends who want a gentle adventure
– Verdon lovers looking for hidden spots
– Anyone who dreams of wild swims and real villages

Highlights of this packrafting trip:

  • Beginner-friendly: no technical skills needed. The route is easy, and the packraft is very stable.

  • Comfort without compromise: spend the night in a fully equipped campsite, enjoy nature without the hassle of wild camping.

  • No logistics to worry about: the route is planned for you just follow the map and enjoy. Your overnight gear is transported by our team.

  • Support throughout: you’re supported before and during the trip briefing, GPS track, tips, and assistance if needed.

  • Total freedom: move at your own pace, with no group or fixed schedule to follow.

  • A different Verdon: far from crowded spots, you experience the true spirit of the area.

Pack weight : 7kg

18km hike over 2 days

Elevation gain: 650 m up, 800 m down

11 km of paddling over 2 days

Day 1: 3h30 of hiking and 3 hours of paddling

Day 2: 4 hours of hiking and 4 hours of paddling

Need some information?

Prepare your self-guided adventure: download the complete guide

Your preparation guide: everything you need to know for a self-guided adventure

💡 Want to plan your adventure down to the smallest detail?

Access, equipment provided, what to bring, how things work on site…

📘Download our practical guide — it gives you a complete overview before you go.

Features of the self-guided adventure

  • Price includes / does not include

    Price includes:

    • The roadbook with the full detailed itinerary

    • All navigation equipment (packraft, paddle, life jacket, dry bag)

    • Shuttle from the meeting point (where your car is parked) to the starting point of day 1’s hike

    • Shuttle from the day 2 finish point back to the meeting point (where your car remains parked)

    • Transport of your luggage

    • One night at the campsite

    Price does not include:

    • Meals.

    • Tent rental. You can rent a tent for an additional €20 per tent (maximum 2 people per tent)

    • Sleeping pad and sleeping bag

    All extras are to be added at the time of booking/payment.

  • Equipment to bring

    For navigation / hiking:

    • Swimsuit

    • Lace-up sports shoes with good soles (they will get wet)

    • Sunglasses, cap, and sunscreen

    • Shorts and t-shirt for hiking

    • 1 water bottle per person (1.5 L each)

    • Walking poles (optional)

    For the night at the campsite:

    • Tent

    • Sleeping pad and sleeping bag (ideally rated for 0-5°C comfort)

    • Headlamp (one for two people is enough)

    • Small towel for the evening

    • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)

    • Warm clothes for the evening: warm pants, long-sleeve top, fleece depending on the season, down jacket

    • Gore-tex and waterproof jacket, hat, neck warmer, socks, dry shoes

    Provided by Blue Secret:

    • The roadbook with detailed itinerary

    • All navigation equipment

    • One dry bag for every two people

  • Adventure level: Level 2 / Dynamic

    What is Level 2 / Dynamic?

    Level 2 / Dynamic: I venture off the beaten path.

    You have energy and generally enjoy sports.
    You can handle 5 to 6 hours of physical activity per day.
    You want to explore unusual places, far from tourist trails and clichés, all set in extraordinary natural surroundings.
    The idea of embarking on an outdoor adventure while maintaining a certain level of comfort appeals to you? Choose Level 2.

  • Technical prerequisite: Level 1 — "I am a beginner"

    Level 1: I am a beginner!

    I know how to go straight, turn, stop, and generally control my kayak or packraft.

  • Minimum age for this activity

    The minimum age for this adventure is 14 years. Please note that regardless of age, participants must know how to swim and meet the required physical and/or technical level.

    If you have any doubts, feel free to call us.

  • Group size

    From 1 to 8 people — you choose who to go with. Whether alone, with family, or friends, you book as many packrafts as you want (maximum 8).

  • Self-guided route

    There is no guide for this adventure - you set off alone with your gear and roadbook.
    Don’t worry, the route is clearly marked and has no technical difficulty.
    Assistance is available if you need help.

Cancellation Policy

  • Unfortunately, I have to cancel my adventure. What happens?

    If, for any reason, you are unable to participate in the adventure you signed up for, different options are available depending on the cancellation date:

    • If you cancel more than 30 days before departure, Blue Secret will fully refund you.
    • If you cancel between 12 and 30 days before departure, Blue Secret will issue a voucher* equivalent to the amount of the adventure. This voucher will be valid for 12 months on all our adventures and will be non-refundable once expired.
    • If you cancel less than 12 days before departure, we won’t be able to provide a refund. However, many insurance providers and credit cards may cover your cancellation.
  • Unfortunately, Blue Secret has to cancel my adventure. What happens next?

    Please note that changing the participant’s identity can be done at any time and at no extra cost, provided that the new participant also meets all the physical and technical requirements of the adventure.

    *Gift vouchers are not nominative. This means that the person of your choice can use them, but only if they also meet all the physical and technical requirements of the adventure.

Please note that changing the participant’s name can be done at any time and at no extra cost, provided that the new participant also meets all the physical and technical requirements of the adventure.
*Gift vouchers are not personalized. The person you choose can use them, but only if they also meet all the physical and technical requirements of the adventure.

  • Our local partners

    To discover the region, feel free to visit the tourist office website - it’s a great source of information.

  • Getting there by public transport?

    If you want to come by public transport, there is a bus that runs daily between Nice and Grenoble.

    Plus d'infos aussi sur le site de l'office de tourisme

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SELF-GUIDED PACKRAFTING ADVENTURE AROUND LAKE CASTILLON

See the adventure in pictures

Discover some images of our self-guided adventure around Lake Castillon.
An immersive journey through perched hamlets, turquoise waters, and wild coves.

They say it better than we do…

Our clients share their experience with you

Blue Secret

A real breath of fresh air, far from the hustle and bustle of the classic Verdon

Details of the packraft adventure

Day 1: From the hamlet of Blaron to Saint-Julien – between ridges, coves, and turquoise crossing

Your adventure begins in the hamlet of Blaron, perched north of Lake Castillon, in a calm and preserved setting. Our team will welcome you on-site to hand over the equipment and provide a full briefing: safety, navigation, points of interest, everything is planned for a smooth immersion.

In the morning, you set off on foot for a 10 km panoramic hike along the lake’s heights. The trail alternates between pine forests, open views, and peaceful stretches before gently descending to the launch point at the valley bottom.

After a well-deserved picnic break, you inflate your packraft and cross the lake towards Saint-Julien-du-Verdon. This section is one of the most beautiful of the route: turquoise water and wild coves. Take your time to swim, relax, or explore some secluded spots along the rocky shores.

Late afternoon, you arrive in Saint-Julien, a quiet village by the water. You spend the night at a nature campsite just steps from the lake perfect for a simple, peaceful, and refreshing evening.

Hiking distance: 10 km

Elevation gain: 320m up, 475 m down

Distance paddled: 5 km on the water.

Total activity time: 7 hours.

 Day 2: Heading to the island and perched ruins – between turquoise water, cliffs, and heritage

On the second day, set off by packraft to a small wild island accessible only by water. Up there, a 360° view of Lake Castillon awaits you. For the adventurous, cliff jumps (2 to 10 meters) or some climbing are possible.

After this magical break, you continue paddling to reach a trail that climbs up to a perched ruined village. The ascent is gradual, passing through Mediterranean forest and open views of the lake.

Once at the top, the view is spectacular. The place is full of history and invites you to slow down before descending to the finish point.
At the end of the day, you return the equipment and leave with a peaceful mind filled with beautiful images and nature.

Hiking distance: 8 km

Elevation gain: 330 m up and down

Distance paddled: 6 km on the water.

Total activity time: 8 hours.

Do you have any questions about your self-guided packraft adventure AROUND LAKE CASTILLON?

  • Is it possible to book a private group?

    Yes, it is of course possible to book a private adventure. The price will be at least equivalent to the participation fee for 6 people. For a customized adventure, don’t hesitate to contact our team, they’ll be happy to assist you.

  • Does the team speak a foreign language?

    Yes. Our logistics team speaks English, and some also speak Spanish. Anyone who speaks English or understands it well enough to follow safety instructions is welcome to join our adventures.

  • Do I have to stay with a group or other people?

    You are free to go alone, with family, or with friends—there is no obligation to join a pre-formed group. During your stay, you’ll have the chance to meet other adventure enthusiasts. Depending on your preferences, you can choose to share your experience with them or continue on independently. This flexibility lets you tailor your adventure to your preferred company.

  • How do we handle meals?

    Meals are not included in Blue Secret’s standard offer; you are invited to bring what you need to prepare your own meals.

  • Is there a minimum age to participate in the activities?

    The minimum age for this adventure is 14 years old. Please note that regardless of age, participants must be able to swim and meet the required physical and/or technical level.

  • Can I choose between a single or double packraft?

    We have both single and double packrafts available. However, the choice of packraft depends on stock availability. For special requests, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

  • What are the different physical fitness levels?
    • Level 1 / Beginner: I’m discovering a new activity.
      No special training or physical condition is required for this level, as long as you are in good health. You want to try packrafting and learn the basics of this new activity in a natural, relaxing setting without much physical effort.

    • Level 2 / Dynamic: I venture off the beaten path.
      You are energetic and generally enjoy sports. You are capable of physical effort lasting 5-6 hours per day. You want to discover unusual places, away from tourist spots and the usual sights, all within a natural environment.

    • Level 3 / Committed: I’m taking on an extraordinary expedition!
      Reserved for strong athletes who regularly practice endurance sports (at least twice a week). You can sustain physical effort for 7-8 hours per day. Used to outdoor sports but not necessarily fully autonomous or specialized, you enjoy camping in remote and exceptional locations (some help setting up camp will be requested). You seek nature and adventure to recharge in unique, hard-to-reach places. Weather conditions can sometimes be unpredictable, but you’re not afraid. You want to live an intense experience that can be a challenge to test your limits and push out of your comfort zone.

    • Level 4 / Expert: I explore little-known lands!
      Reserved for experienced athletes practicing endurance sports intensely (more than three times a week). Portages can reach up to 20 kg, and physical activity can last up to 12 hours per day. Adventurers used to outdoor expeditions, with strong motivation and mental toughness. Progression takes place in isolated and potentially very demanding environments, especially if weather conditions turn extreme. Geographic isolation means limited rescue options. These are ambitious projects where reaching the goal and group safety depend on everyone’s commitment. A spirit of solidarity is essential!

  • What are the different types of technical skill levels?
    • Level 1: I am "The Beginner!"
      I have never paddled before.

      Level 2: I am "The Intermediate!"
      I can go straight, turn, stop, and generally control my kayak or packraft. I have already paddled on a class 2 river (small currents, waves).

      Level 3: I am "The Advanced!"
      I navigate comfortably on class 2/3 rivers. I fully control my boat in this type of river. I can help set up group safety for technical sections.

      Level 4: I am "The Expert!"
      I navigate class 3/4 rivers. I can roll (eskimo roll), read the river, and set up safety for technical sections.

       
       
  • Do you need to know how to swim?

    Knowing how to swim is an absolutely mandatory requirement.

  • Will my shoes be okay in the water?

    Yes, your shoes will get wet. Please note that for safety reasons, wearing shoes is mandatory on all our adventures.

  • What type of shoes do I need?

    You’ll need a pair of sneakers with good soles, like regular sports shoes.

  • What happens in case of bad weather?

    La sécurité est notre priorité ! Même si la météo est mauvaise (pluie, vent, nuages…), l’aventure continue tant que la sécurité des participants n’est pas en danger.
    Si la météo rend le parcours risqué, un itinéraire alternatif peut être proposé pour protéger le groupe.
    Si aucun autre itinéraire n’est possible, l’aventure sera annulée.

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