Blue secret

Self-Guided Discovery of Lake Castillon

Blue secret

Informations about the adventure

×

1 day from 9AM to 5PM

60 €

Level 2/4

Castellane

1 to 8 people maximum

Discover the Verdon differently, on a one-day adventure

Escape to a lesser-known, preserved part of the Verdon for a full day of adventure. Far from the tourist crowds of the Verdon Gorges or Lake Sainte-Croix, Lake Castillon reveals a different side to the region: turquoise waters, wild coves, perched hamlets, and breathtaking scenery.

Your day begins with a panoramic hike above the lake, followed by a peaceful packrafting journey down to the water, including swim stops and breaks in secluded coves accessible only by boat.

This is the perfect itinerary for those who want to explore at their own pace, enjoy the refreshing waters of the lake, and experience an accessible outdoor adventure combining hiking, paddling, and stunning landscapes.

🎒 Perfect for:

– Curious visitors looking for an alternative to mass tourism in the Verdon
– Those seeking a  hassle-free, full-day activity at an affordable price
– Nature lovers who enjoy easy hikes and refreshing swiming spots

Highlights of this packraft adventure:

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

  • No logistics to worry about: the route is planned for you — just follow the map and enjoy! Our team will transport your overnight gear.

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

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

Pack weight : 7kg

10 km hike

Elevation gain: 320m up, 475 m down

5 km of paddling

Total activity time: 7 hours.

Need some information?

+33 7 65 23 02 89

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 finish point on Day 2, 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 pads and sleeping bags

    All extras must 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 confort temperature of 0-5°C )

    • Headlamp (one for two people is enough)

    • Small towel for the evening

    • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)

    • Warm clothes for the evening: warm trousers, long-sleeved top, a fleece depending on the season, and a down jacket

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

    Provided by Blue Secret:

    • A roadbook with  the 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 you 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, surounded by extraordinary natural scenery .
    Does 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 paddle on a straight line, turn, stop, and generally control my kayak or packraft.

  • Minimum age for this activity

    The minimum age requirement for this adventure is 14 years. Please note that regardless of age, participants must be able 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.  You can book as many packrafts as you want ( maximum 8) Whether you going alone, with family, or friends.

  • 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 they are no technical difficulty.
    Help and assistance is available if you need it.

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 you can change 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.

    For more information, visit the Tourist Office website.

Adventurers have already set off
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Eco-responsible adventures
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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.

Navigation en packraft sur le lac de Castillon
Navigation en packraft sur le lac de Castillon
Navigation en packraft sur le lac de Castillon
Navigation en packraft sur le lac de Castillon
Navigation en packraft sur le lac de Castillon
Navigation en packraft sur le lac de Castillon
Navigation en packraft sur le lac de Castillon
Navigation en packraft sur le lac de Castillon
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

We’re used to the Verdon around Sainte-Croix, but this part is much quieter and more natural. Lake Castillon is a real gem. Everything was smooth, accessible, and well organized. The mix of hiking and paddling is perfect for staying active without rushing. And then the little villages, the ruins, the swimming… everything was there, but without the crowds. We’ll definitely come back.

Julie R.

We know Lake Sainte-Croix well and love it, but in summer it’s really crowded. This time, it was the complete opposite: no noise, no pedal boats, just us, the silence, and the turquoise water. The mix of hiking and packrafting is really well thought out. We took our time and swam in coves all to ourselves. A wilder, more intimate Verdon… we didn’t think that still existed!

Nathanael P.

We were looking for a nature getaway without going far. The result: total change of scenery! The hike on the first day was stunning, and crossing the lake by packraft under the sun… simply magical. The little campsite in Saint-Julien is super peaceful, far from the big tourist spots. And the view from the island the next morning—wow. A wonderful surprise just steps from home.

Olivia F.

Inspirer, partager et sensibiliser

Details of the packraft adventure

From the hamlet of Blaron to Saint-Julien – along ridgelines, hidden coves, and turquoise crossings

Your day begins in the hamlet of Blaron, perched on the northern shore of Lake Castillon, in a peaceful and preserved setting. Upon arrival, our team will welcome you with a full equipment handover and briefing: safety, navigation, points of interest—everything is set for a confident and immersive start.

In the morning, you will set off on a panoramic hike of around 10 km overlooking the lake. The trail winds through pine forests, natural viewpoints, and a few moderate climbs, offering stunning views of the turquoise water below. A gradual descent will lead you to the launch point, where you will enjoy a picnic break in a wild and scenic spot.

The afternoon is dedicated to packrafting: glide across Lake Castillon at your own pace, tracing the steep shores and secluded coves. The crystal-clear water invites you to swim and pause for quiet moments of reflection.

At the end of the day, you will arrive in Saint-Julien-du-Verdon, a charming village nestled by the water. A shuttle will be waiting to take you peacefully back to your starting point.

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 come 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 allows you to tailor your adventure to your desired 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 paddle in a straight line, 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?

    Safety is our priority! Even if the weather is bad ( rain, wind, clouds...), the adventure continue as long as the safety of the participants is not at risk. 

    If the weather makes the route risky, an alternative route may be proposed to protect the group.

    If no alternative road is possible, the adventure will be canceled.

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