10 places to make canyoning in the Pyrenees

Looking for an adrenaline dose during your Pyrenean getaway? Here are the 10 best spots to make canyoning in the Pyrenees!

Did you know that canyoism was born in the Pyrenees? The torrents, the erosion and, of course, the few million years, have carved in the mountains of the deep canyons. They have long remained unexplored and have largely inspired folklore and Pyrenean legends. This will soon attracted the speleologists, who left to discover them in the nineteenth century. The mysterious gorges also call lovers of strong sensations that, little by little, will develop canyoning in the Pyrenees.

Do you want to perpetuate this tradition? You will first have to choose the ideal spot, adapted to your level, but also to your desires. In this article you will find the 10 best places to make canyoning in the Pyrenees!

1. The Llech canyon

The Llech canyon is not only one of the best canyoning spots in the Pyrenees, it is also one of the best spots in France! It offers a very good balance between reminders and jumps. However, it is above all its slides that give it its reputation. During the course, you will be asked to know the "wash machine". We don't tell you more, the name is sufficiently evocative.

2. The Gourg of Anelles canyon

The beginning of the course gives the tone: a 30-metre drop! The Gourg of Anelles canyon is indeed very vertical. It offers dizzy jumps, up to 8 meters. However, all are bypassable. This allows this course to be suitable at different levels. Not to mention the originality of some passages, which bring piquant to experience. Ideal for a friendly outing in the Pyrenees-Orientales!

3. Le canyon du gave d’Héas

What a better place than the emblematic circus of Gavarnie , in the Upper Pyrenees, to learn about canyoism? The gorge of the Haeas gave a playful path that makes the part beautiful to the aquatic element. You will chain jumps, reminders, cascades and slides with a very good rhythm. And all this bathed in clear water, surrounded by a landscape of striking purity. An ideal experience for beginners and families!

4. The canyon of Arlos

Do you want to make your children discover canyoism? Then the canyon of Arlos is perhaps the best place to make canyoning in the Pyrenees. Located not far from Luchon, it allows to experiment smoothly. Walking on the rocky bed of the river is punctuated by a dozen natural slides. At the end, a little jump awaits you to finish the course in beauty! The little plus? No need to know how to swim to get started.

5. The Mascùn canyon

Visit the Sierra de Guara Natural Park on the Spanish side. It houses one of the best spots to make canyoning in the Pyrenees, the Mascùn canyon. A true reference, this parade offers an unforgettable experience. It is nevertheless reserved for those who are looking for a challenge! Some passages are very technical. The nail of the show? A reminder of over 30 meters! All in a sumptuous setting.

6. The Canceigt Canyon

Decidedly, the Ossau valley contains many treasures. The Canceigt Gorge located near Laruns is renowned for its lush vegetation, which gives it an almost tropical atmosphere. This particularity earned him the nickname of little Amazonia! Although there are effective reminders, jumps and slides, the course’s strength is above all its beauty. From light pools to underground passages, the wonder will follow you throughout the experience.

7. The Gourzy Canyon

Want to try something new? Go to Gourzy canyon, near Pau, for a canyoning session! In a white background, you evolve with a specialised monitor.

Between the sounds suffocated by the snow and the stalactite cascades, the atmosphere is simply magical. The technological evolution of the combinations allows today to open this extraordinary activity to a wide audience. So why don't you also throw yourself in the winter gorges?

Note: In summer, Gourzy canyon is also an excellent playground.

8. The canyon of the neste of Oô

If you stay in the valley of Luchon, do not miss the canyon of the nest of Oo. This is one of the best places to make canyoning in the Pyrenees for beginners. Indeed, the throat offers everything you can expect from an initiation session. Jumps, stunts, reminders, slides and siphons connect.

You don't know your limits? No problem! Here, all obstacles are optional. Moreover, the nest evolves in an enchanting forest setting, which does not spoil anything!

9. The Caouba Canyon of the Maillet

In the heart of the Upper Pyrenees, between the Circus of Troumouse and the circus of Estaubé, is the gorge of the Maillet. Tortuous and accidental, it opens only to the bravest. Jumps, slides, reminders... everything is there to challenge you. But in addition to adrenaline, she will not fail to marvel at you by her majestic beauty! The limestone rocks are bathed by a water of a bright turquoise. An adventure not to be missed.

10. The canyon of the Soussouéou

For you, canyoning is above all an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, without a headache? The throat of the Soussouéou does not present any difficulty, but the experience is transcended by its great beauty. Let yourself be carried by the quiet clapotis of the cascades and the intoxicating transparency of the vasques! An idyllic setting, ideal for a day combining memories and lightness, with friends or family.

Rates and practical information

Rates

What is the price of canyoning in the Pyrenees? Here is an idea of the prices practiced:

• Mini-descent: 35€ per person;
• Discovery or classical course (between 2h and 4h): 40 / 50 € per person;
• Canyoning day (between 4h and 6h): 50/70€ per person;
• Expert canyoning day (between 4h and 9h): 80/90€ per person.

Practical information

• Reservation: you can easily book the activity on the website of canyoning centres;
• Equipment: plan a bathing suit, towel and sports sneakers;
• Accessibility: there are courses adapted to all levels and for all ages. If you’ve never practiced canyoism, you’re not athletic or you’re suffering from dizziness, start slowly! Do not hesitate to call the centres for more information on the routes;
• Autonomous Canyoning: If you are experienced and trained, you can run into autonomy. Learn well on the canyon and plan all the necessary equipment (combination, chausson, baudrier, etc.);
• Finally, enjoy! If some passages can be impressive, you are accompanied by professionals. Enjoy the beautiful nature of the Pyrenees!