Canyoning

With steep faces everywhere you look and an enormous network of rivers, streams and lakes the Hautes-Alpes is one of the best playgrounds for the growing sport of canyoning.

What is canyoning?

Canyoning is the sport of negotiating your way down a river canyon by using various techniques; abseiling and jumping down waterfalls and cliffs, sliding down natural chutes and water slides, swimming through crystal clear pools and using special rope systems.

There is usually a small amount of hiking required to access most canyons.

Is canyoning safe?

As with any adventure sport, canyoning involves an element of risk... however with the assistance of a professional and experienced guide, and high quality safety equipment to control the risk element, you should enjoy a safe and positive canyoning experience.

Do I need experience?

No, canyoning can be enjoyed by first time canyoners. The guide will teach you the all of the necessary techniques for a safe descent. For those with canyoning or abseiling experience, more difficult itineraries can be chosen.

What if I can't swim?

A canyoning life jacket is worn which provides buoyancy. Therefore swimming skills are not usually essential.

When can I go Canyoning?

Guided trips in the canyons run from the end of June to the middle of September. If you are experienced it is possible to canyon outside of these dates depending on the weather and your ability to cope with very cold water!

What Canyons are nearby?

Within just a few kilometres of our apartments you will find the following canyons:

• The Fournel Canyon: this canyon is a very wet trip and involves a number of jumps and natural slides

• The Tramouillon Canyon: a beginners canyon

• The Saint Crépin Canyon: very steep

• The Eychauda Canyon: good for everyone, suitable for beginners and also options to hone your skills for the more experienced

• The Pra Reboul Canyon: very steep and only suitable for those with experience

• The Plampinet Canyon: steep with a lot of water

More detailed information on the canyons of the Hautes Alpes can be found here.

What does it cost to go on a guided canyoning trip?

Guided trips cost between 40€ and 55€ per person and this will include the hire of any specialist equipment that you may need for the canyon. Trips are usually a minimum of a half day activity.

If you are interested in taking a canyoning trip as a part of your holiday in our accommodation then we can help you to arrange and book it. Don't hesitate to ask us.