Is the particle exasperating you? So go and refresh yourself by coming to the canoe-kayak in the Pyrenees!
The Pyrenees form a mountain range between France and the Spain . It is the second French mountainous massif after that of the Alps. With more than 3,400 m of altitude, the Pyrenees are known for their sweetness of living and their beautiful possibilities of sliding sports. Ski, snowboard, sled... but not just!
You can also make canoe-kayak in the Pyrenees. Placid lakes or flooded torrents: there are for all tastes in this southern massif of character. The beautiful days coming, why not come and enjoy it in your turn?
In order to find out more about canoeing in the Pyrenees, Wanderlix offers you this comprehensive guide to pick up without galerating. Let’s go to your paddles!
The best activity: making canoe-kayak on the Gave de Pau
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Amateur007
? Rates: from 20 € per person
? The most of this activity? initiation to progression in rapids
Here's the best solution to make canoe-kayak in the Pyrenees! Find below the description of the activity and all the information you need to know to try it out.
The course of the activity
Canoe-kayak in the Pyrenees on the Gave de Pau , it is to discover this tributary of the Adour otherwise. Everything starts on the road to Lourdes and more precisely in Montaut. The time and place of appointment will be fixed at the time of booking. A small nautical base along the river will be the starting point of the adventure!
You will then become acquainted with the team of friendly and experienced monitors who will make you discover the place. After a trip to the changing rooms if necessary, you will equip your vest (and a combination if necessary). Here, making canoe-kayak in the Pyrenees starts with a bus ride to the water. Your boat, for one or two people, is waiting for you... after you have read the safety instructions and good water practices. Don’t worry, it’s very simple and intuitive!
The kayak (for a person) or the canoe "hot dog" (two places) are inflatable for maximum pleasure. They will allow you to make the descent of the river interspersed with some boulder jumps. Doing canoe-kayak on the Gave de Pau, between Lourdes and Lestelle Bétharram, it’s rubbing with rapids from class 2 to 5. Your monitor watches your safety, fear!
In particular, you will have the opportunity to discover the Flip Flap wave and Pont des Grottes . These are internationally renowned spots where prestigious competitions are organized. Regardless of the weather conditions, your session can be maintained because itineraries can be adapted. The trip lasts between two. and three hours depending on current intensity. At the arrival point, the shuttle will pick you up to get you back to the base. Douches, taste and pictures await you!
The information to know
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Chaton Chokpatara
Doing canoe-kayak in the Pyrenees does not improvise. It is essential know how to swim and, for children under 18 years of age, to submit a parental authorization. The latter should, however, be aged at least 12 years to be able to make the descent.
You'll also have to for a swimsuit or swim shorts, closed baskets can be wet and one towel . A buoyancy vest and a combination will be provided.
The rates are more than reasonable: 20 € per person (for groups over eight) up to 28 € per person (for groups of one to four persons). The site is closed in January, February and December. Last recommendation: glasses station, smartphones and other gadgets on kayaking. Not only does it cost expensive in case of loss, but also and above all... it pollutes this sublime watercourse!
Alternatives
Canoeing at Lake Bious-Artigues
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Jordan Faget
? Rates: between 15 € and 30 € per person
? The most of this activity? the discovery of a sumptuous water plan
Lake Bious-Artigues is located 1,400 meters above sea level at the gates of the Pyrenees National Park . You are at the foot of the majestic Pic du Midi d’Ossau, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
This lake – artificial – is powered by Bious's gull and several streams. They offer a water oscillating between deep blue and emerald green. Doing canoe-kayak in the Pyrenees (Atlantic!) on this water plan does not pose any danger and addresses a very large clientele. The rental of canoes is possible as a guided tour offered by a jovial monitor.
For example, an hour to rent a biplace canoe is cost 15 € . The canoe formula with a bivouac for the night only costs 30 € ! The lifejackets are lent you for a safe discovery of the place. Accessible within three years, this activity is recommended between June and September .
Canoe on Ariège
Photo credit: Flickr – Sébastien Launay
? Rates: between 18 € and 60 € depending on the chosen formula
? The most of this activity? company engaged in eco-tourism
Welcome between the cities of Pamiers and Cintegabelle, more precisely in Le Château, a hamlet of Saverdun. You are in the heart of Ariège, a department that owes its name to the eponymous river.
You are going to go down the latter! This dynamic river includes many small rapids and its flow rate is constant throughout the year. Many formulas are available to make canoe-kayak in the Ariegean Pyrenees. The descent of a nine-kilometre stretch of river lasts between 1 h 30 to 2 h ( 18 € by child, 20 € per adult).
You can even opt for forty kilometers of descent on a day and a half! Accessible from 6 years old, you can choose to perform the activity accompanied by a monitor... or only by renting your boat. On the menu: small beaches, beautiful river landscapes and an arrival under the arches of the red brick bridge of Cintegabelle... Beautiful!
Our tips to make canoe-kayak
For a successful canoeing or kayaking session, there are some prerequisites. Nothing bad, but information equally essential for a memorable experience.
- Whether you choose a canoeing or kayaking session (which are two different boats), think about keeping you straight throughout the activity. Your back will thank you;
- Paddle slowly, but surely. To go faster, nothing serves to paddle faster. You will simply have to go to the deepest of the water, and paddle with strength, making wide and wide movements;
- A suitable outfit (sport holder, water resistant) is obviously recommended to you in order to enjoy a maximum of the activity;
- Before any canoeing or kayaking session, learn about currents and navigation conditions (flow, river classification, dams..) This information is available in the territorial branches of the French Waterway (VNF), tourist offices and town halls;
- It is not necessary to have a medical certificate or to be in very good physical condition to make canoe-kayak;
- Always wear a lifejacket, even if you can swim perfectly. In the event of an accident, he could save you life.
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