Category: The Verdon river

Welcome to the thrilling world of rafting in Castellane , an adventure that combines both adrenaline and discovery of the breathtaking landscapes of Haute-Provence. Castellane, located at the gates of the majestic Gorges du Verdon, is a true paradise for lovers of outdoor activities, and rafting occupies a special place there. Whether you are an adventurer looking for thrills or a beginner wanting to explore white water in a fun and safe way, this experience is for you.

In this article, we guide you through everything you need to know to prepare for your trip to the Castellane rapids: equipment, safety, best routes, and much more. So, embark with us on this incredible adventure!

The unique rafting experience in Castellane

Castellane, a gem located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is famous for its exceptional rafting offerings. This small town, gateway to the Verdon Gorges, is the ideal starting point for an unforgettable rafting adventure. The unique blend of stunning landscapes and dynamic waterways makes Castellane a favorite spot for thrill-seekers and natural beauty seekers.

The Verdon River: an ideal playground for rafting

The Verdon, with its clear, white waters, offers a spectacular setting for rafting. Courses vary in difficulty, offering options for all levels, from families seeking a gentle, fun experience to experienced rafters seeking more intense challenges. Sailing on the Verdon means treating yourself to an extraordinary natural spectacle, with breathtaking views of the limestone cliffs and the lush vegetation that line its banks.

A rafting experience for everyone

In Castellane, rafting is an activity accessible to everyone.

Local companies offer guided excursions, where experienced instructors accompany you to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. Whether you opt for a leisurely descent or a course strewn with pitfalls, safety is always the priority. With the equipment provided and the expert advice of the guides, even beginners can indulge in rafting with complete confidence.

Rafting in Castellane: more than just an activity

Rafting in Castellane is much more than a sport; it’s a way to experience an adventure, to create connections with nature and to discover breathtaking landscapes. Each paddle stroke brings you closer to a deep connection with the environment, while providing an adrenaline rush and moments of pure joy. It is a unique opportunity to escape from everyday life and immerse yourself in the immensity and beauty of the Gorges du Verdon.

Preparing for rafting: tips and recommendations

Before diving into the exhilarating adventure of rafting in Castellane, proper preparation is crucial to ensure an experience that is both safe and memorable. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for your descent on the white waters of the Verdon.

Equipment needed for rafting

The right equipment is the key to a successful rafting experience. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Appropriate clothing: Choose comfortable clothing suitable for water. Consider wearing a swimsuit under a neoprene suit provided by the organizers.
• Protection: A life jacket and a helmet are essential for your safety. These elements will be provided to you and adjusted by professionals.
• Shoes: Opt for closed shoes that stay in place and protect your feet.

Safety tips for risk-free rafting

Safety is paramount during a rafting session. Here are some rules to follow:

• Listen to your guide: The instructors are there to ensure your safety. Follow their instructions carefully.
• Stay alert: Keep an eye on the surroundings and other participants.
• Know your limits: Do not hesitate to express your concerns or your physical limits to your guide.

Best times of year for rafting

The ideal time for rafting in Castellane is from spring to autumn, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring is particularly recommended for thrill-seekers, with more turbulent waters and greater flow. For more details on the rafting season, read the article on Le Haut Verdon, a well-kept secret that is revealed in spring .

Choosing your rafting route in Castellane

When it comes to choosing your rafting route in Castellane, you’ll discover a variety of options to suit all tastes and skill levels. Castellane offers courses ranging from gentle and family-friendly to more daring and technical descents.

Course for beginners and families

If you’re new to the world of rafting or looking for an adventure suitable for the whole family, Castellane has what you need. Beginner courses are designed to provide both a safe and exciting experience, allowing rafters of all ages to enjoy whitewater without the technical difficulties of more advanced courses. These gentle descents offer the perfect balance of moderate adventure and nature enjoyment.

Route for experienced adventurers

For more experienced rafters, Castellane offers courses that challenge even the most daring. With more difficult rapids and more unpredictable waters, these courses offer a dose of adrenaline and technical challenges for those looking for a more intense rafting experience.

Find the ideal route

To choose the route that best suits your expectations and your level of skill, do not hesitate to consult the detailed offers on the different pages of the site: Rafting Airboat and Rafting Airboat Verdon . These pages will provide you with all the necessary information about the different options available, allowing you to select the rafting adventure that suits you best.

Discover Castellane and its surroundings

After an exhilarating day on the white waters, Castellane invites you to discover its many treasures. This charming town, located in the beautiful Haute-Provence region, offers much more than rafting adventures.

The village of Castellane: a historical and cultural jewel

Castellane, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, is a place steeped in history and charm. The village is famous for its Notre-Dame du Roc chapel, perched on top of a cliff offering a panoramic view of the region. Strolling through the streets of Castellane is like taking a trip back in time, discovering artisanal shops, and tasting the tasty local cuisine.

Explore further

For those who want to know more about the activities and attractions in Castellane, the articles The village of Castellane, an essential stopover during your stay in the Verdon and The best activities to do in Castellane offer a complete overview of the opportunities that await you in this exceptional region.

Conclusion

The rafting experience in Castellane is an unforgettable adventure, combining adrenaline, discovery and immersion in an exceptional natural setting. Whether you are a beginner looking to taste the joys of white water or an experienced rafter looking for challenges, Castellane offers a range of courses adapted to all desires.

Beyond rafting, this charming town in Haute-Provence is a true treasure, rich in history, culture and outdoor activities. Each visit to Castellane is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories, whether by sailing the Verdon rapids or exploring the hidden treasures of the village and its surroundings.

For those who are ready to dive into this thrilling adventure, don’t wait any longer. Visit the Rafting Verdon page for more information and to book your rafting experience in Castellane. It’s time to experience an adventure that will remain engraved in your memory!

Verdon level and whitewater activities: understanding the role of dams

In the Gorges du Verdon, water releases from dams regulate the flow of the river. An operation to know to practice sports activities in white water.

The Verdon river constitutes a true geological wonder which attracts thousands of visitors each year.

To discover its beauty, nothing like trying out whitewater sports, which will offer you, in addition to spectacular landscapes, beautiful sensations!

To practice these activities, it is necessary to understand how the level of Verdon . The river takes its source above the Col d’Allos. It then flows for nearly 170 km and is regulated by hydroelectric dams . These are the Castillon and Chaudane dams upstream of the Gorges, and the Sainte-Croix, Quinson and Esparron dams downstream.

It is on the Chaudanne dam that we linger since it is the one that regulates the flow of the Verdon from Castellane to Lake Sainte-Croix, the part of the Verdon on which our activities take place. When the dam is open , the flow of water is strong and the flow is rapid: the conditions are then ideal for the practice of rafting and canoeing . If this is closed , the level goes down but the river is not dry. The water flow is lower and it is then possible to do aqua-hiking and canyoning without a rope in the Grand Canyon du Verdon .

Summer period: opening of the dam on Tuesday and Friday

Our activities depend on information provided by EDF , which regulates the dam. In July and August, water releases are regular . Thus the water flow allows the practice of rafting and canoeing Tuesdays and Fridays . The other days, the river is not dry but the water flow is lower. All you have to do then is let yourself be carried by the current in aqua-rando, or try a canyoning outing. In September, the releases are irregular but more frequent . Do not hesitate to contact us, our teams will be happy to inform you about the activities that you can practice!

In spring: irregular water releases

During the spring season, the releases are carried out depending on weather conditions . They are therefore irregular . They may be more frequent due to precipitation or snowmelt. EDF only gives us the information on the release days a few days in advance. They are often scheduled on weekends, especially during the May holidays .

These periods are then particularly suitable for the practice of rafting and canoeing. In spring, it is also possible to discover the Haut-Verdon, which does not depend on water releases! And allows you to discover a completely different aspect of the region, less known and wilder. Or even go further downstream towards the Gorges de Baeaudinard or the lake of Quinson or Esparron and why stop on the way at the village of Trigance and learn about the Trott’Elec !

The Verdon river, turquoise water and splendid landscapes

It is by flowing in the middle of limestone rocks that the Verdon river carved out the Gorges of the same name, considered today as one of the most beautiful canyons in Europe.

A water with emerald reflections of rare intensity.

With its color oscillating between blue and green, the Verdon river will not fail to charm you … But do you know what gives Verdon this unique color? These are microscopic algae and fluorine, present in its bottoms, which make it one of the most beautiful rivers in France. To discover the river and appreciate the superb landscapes that surround it, many activities are possible : rafting , aqua hike , canoe Kayak , canyoning or even hikes …

The river in the heart of the Gorges du Verdon

It is in the massif of the Three Bishoprics , in the town of Allos, that the Verdon takes its source. Following a route of approximately 175 kilometers , it then flows into the Durance, in the town of Saint-Paul-les-Durance.

To experience white water sports, two areas of the Verdon are passable :

The section of Haut-Verdon

Located between the villages of Allos and Saint-André-les-Alpes, it flows over forty kilometers. Spring is the best time to discover it by rafting, a unique wild and sporting experience!

The Moyen-Verdon section

It breaks down itself into two parts: the pre-gorges of Castellane , and the famous Verdon Canyon , known for its 21 kilometers of deep and wild gorges.

In the part of the Gorges du Verdon, rafting and canoeing are legion since many rapids follow one another. You may have the opportunity to hear their names: at barre-Saint-Jean, la Dégoulinante, the Tourniquet, Imbut , the solitary…

Book your family discovery rafting activity now.

Five lakes to discover

By following the Verdon river, you can discover the five artificial lakes which also offer exceptional landscapes in the region. These are the lakes of Castillon and Chaudanne upstream of the Gorges du Verdon and the lakes of Sainte-Croix, Quinson and Gréoux-les-Bains , which are located downstream. The practice of nautical activities is authorized there, with the exception of the lake of Chaudanne.

The five dams of the same name play a major role in the region since they allow the production of electricity thanks to the force of the retained water. They are also essential for the organization of whitewater sports.

Book your activity on the Verdon lakes now.

Haute Provence Outdoor also offers other activities while staying dry! You have the choice between the Deval’Bike or the all-terrain electric scooter .