Where to make rafting in Biarritz?

Would you like to taste the joys of the river slip during your stay in the Basque Country? Go and rafting next to Biarritz!

A city with a privileged setting and a strong character, Biarritz is a popular destination for both French and French travelers. Few cities can boast to offer, like it, direct access to the ocean and proximity to the mountains. This exceptional geographical location allows its visitors to practice many outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking and rafting.

Are you looking for strong sensations in the midst of natural landscapes? Are you wondering where to make rafting in Biarritz or around? The main river of the Nive, or Errobi in Basque, is the perfect playground! Presentation of the two best rafting routes to be made between friends, family or colleagues near Biarritz.

Good to know.

• The period between months April and November is the most conducive to the practice of rafting in Biarritz;
• The Nive offers nearly 35 kilometers of water-water in the spring and beautiful sections in the summer. Its relatively low denial makes it a family river, ideal for starting with rafting;
• If the rafting on the Nive is accessible to all, know how to swim at least 25 metres is mandatory for this activity. A minimum age is sometimes required by certain organizations (5, 7 or 8 years);
• You will be guided and supervised by qualified and experienced guides who will ensure your safety;
• The rafting excursions around Biarritz are usually offered during the day or half day. In addition to the time spent on water, plan an additional 45 minutes for transport, equipment and briefing. It is possible to include lunch and/or combine with another outdoor activity according to the formulas;
• Finally, don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, closed shoes, as well as water in sufficient quantity. You can also expect food, especially if lunch is not included in your trip. Safety equipment such as helmet, life jacket and neoprene top are provided by the body.

1. The Ossès-Bidarray route

Course

If you want to rafting in Biarritz, you'll have to reach La Nive. This stream extends over nearly 80 kilometers and takes its source in the mountains of the Bass-Navarre, beyond the Spanish border . It crosses the Pyrenees-Atlantiques to throw itself into the Adour in Bayonne, nearby town of Biarritz.

The Bidarray site is relatively short but promises you strong sensations and a fun adventure in an exceptional natural setting. The rafting descent on this route is accessible to all, including beginners.

The starting point of this route is in Ossès where a descent of 7 kilometers awaits you to reach the charming village of Bidarray. This route will lead you to cross several rapids of variable intensity through beautiful landscapes.

This portion is in Class 2 (out of six levels) and has a few Class 3 passages. You can also enjoy it to observe the wildlife of the Basque Country, such as pottoks (small Basque horses), sheep or vultures. Unless you're too busy running your boat!?

Practical information

• The meeting point is located in Bidarray, approximately 45 minutes road to Biarritz;
• Around Bidarray, the practice of rafting in Biarritz is generally possible starting in March. Note, however, that any session depends on the climatic conditions of the moment (meteo, water level and flow rate, accessibility...);
• Since the watercourse is lower and less powerful in the summer, it is an excellent time to achieve this course with children in the early age;

2. The route of the Gorges du Pas de Roland

Course

What if you extend the course? On this itinerary you take the portion between Ossès and Bidarray, then continue to Itxassou. This descent on the Nive allows you to discover the legendary Gorges du Pas de Roland, whose name is linked to a natural curiosity. Indeed, the Pas de Roland is a strange cavity caused by erosion in the rock of the Gorges de la Nive.

This is also the origin of two legends. One tells that Roland , nephew of Charlemagne, would have attempted to break his Durandal sword on this rock during a leak so as not to leave it to the enemies. The other evokes a blow of sabotage from his faithful horse, Veillantif...

So, what should you expect on this route? Prepare yourself for a fun and sporting adventure, surrounded by green wild landscapes in the Nive Valley, at the foot of the Basque mountains. The Gorges du Pas de Roland sur la Nive are one of the most beautiful rafting routes around Biarritz and even the Basque Country.

This is a true dive in the heart of the elements! Just like on the first part of the course, you will alternate between fast and quieter portions.

Practical information

• Itxassou, the rendezvous point, is at 30 minutes road to Biarritz;
• This nautical hike is often complemented by moments of swimming, stuffing on the banks and a picnic. For a whole day ;
• Depending on your level and the conditions of the moment, you can choose to descend on a raft with monitor or semi-autonomous on a smaller boat.

Did you ask where to rafting in Biarritz or its surroundings? You now know the two spots closest to the city where to embark for a memorable adventure on the Nive. Good descent!