If you are a collector of outdoor activities in the Southern Alps and you are looking for the next destination and experience to add to your list, we have a single phrase for you: Canyoning in the High Alps.

This 5th apartment is not only known for its stunning views, its culture and its history, but also for being the cradle of the best outdoor sports and leisure activities, both in summer and winter. In addition, being easily accessible by car and train, it is an exceptional destination to visit as soon as possible. If you add a canyoning excursion to your holiday, they will be perfect!

Where to go canyoning in the High Alps?

A stone’s throw from the silver mines of L'Argentière-la-Bessée, between Briançon and Serre Chevalier, you can take advantage of the different alpine rivers to spend a day of fun.

• The Fournel canyon: If you are looking for canyoning in L'Argentière-la-Bessée, this is the closest canyon to the city. It is very famous thanks to its accessibility for any audience and its easy route even for children. It offers a diversified tour and a mix of fun and adrenaline.

• The Ascension canyon Is located in the Clarée Valley, about 20 minutes from Briançon. It offers a terrain that adapts to both beginners and more expert canyoners. As well as being an exciting and fun activity, it offers stunning views, right on the Franco-Italian border.

• The Acles cliff: It is also a must in the department. This canyon takes you to the Guisane Valley, an hour’s drive from Serre Chevalier. It is equally accessible for beginners as for the usual. It is located in the municipality of Névache and allows you to descend the canyon two steps from the Italian border. However, it is usually visited for a more sporting adventure.

• The l'Eychauda canyon: A more of a sporty route, open to beginners or adventurers with a good physical condition. It is located in Vallouise-Pelvoux, 45 minutes from Briançon. You will have a spectacular view of the Southern Alps while you live exciting and sensational moments.

• The Haut Tramouillon canyon: Equally sporty, this canyon is situated between sunny waterfalls, overlooking the Gyronde Valley. Here you will spend a real get-away moment and relaxation. It is also known for having a magnificent waterfall of 20 meters high. You can descend it by rappelling and feel the excitement of the escape. It is 15.5 miles (25 km) from Briançon.

• The Oules de Freissinières cliff: This canyon will be perfect for those who want to feel a good dose of adrenaline! You will evolve between rocks and streams, jumping, walking and sliding through wonderful slides. As a bonus, you will enjoy descending the river in abseil, which will offer you unique feelings, releasing tensions. It will make you feel happy and relaxed! The canyon landscape includes rugged rock formations such as cliffs, waterfalls, narrow gorges and crystal-clear waters.

• Chichin canyon: Like the canyon mentioned above, it is located in Freissinières, half an hour drive from Briançon. It is characterized by its fabulous aesthetic. Indeed, the canyon landscape includes rugged rock formations such as cliffs, waterfalls, narrow gorges, as well as crystal clear waters. However, it is quite technical and requires a very good physical condition to traverse it.

• The Gâ canyon: For adventure lovers, whether family, friends or couple, these canyoning tours are ideal for experiencing the thrill of descent, while enjoying the scenery. Among the most popular places to practice this activity, we guarantee that you will have a great time in the crystal clear and refreshing waters of the Alps. With a fabulous landscape, you can abseil down waterfalls, slide and jump into the water: it’s a great way to get fit! It is located in the village of La Grave, less than an hour from Serre Chevalier.

• The Devil’s Eye canyon: Perfect for adventurers looking for pure nature and emotions. It combines both to perfection and offers you an unforgettable adventure. You will enjoy a magnificent view of the Ecrins National Park, while experiencing the adrenaline of this fabulous aquatic activity.

When is the best time to do it?

The canyoning in the High Alps, being an activity that requires water almost most of the time, its activities are performed outside the winter season. Therefore, our centers usually open between March and October.

Activities begin in the morning or early afternoon. In addition, your water excursion can last from half a day to a whole day, depending on the canyon and its difficulty.

Who can do this activity?

Our staff will propose departures from 7, 8 years minimum, in several canyons, in particular the Fournel canyon. It is important to know how to swim and dive in the water. Obviously, minors must be accompanied by an adult. Of course, the minimum age will also depend on the difficulty of the tour. For example, some canyons will allow the entry from the age of 16 for security reasons.

How does the experience develop?

Our guides will welcome you before the start of the activity. You will be on your way to the starting point after you have received all the equipment.

Depending on the weather, you can wear a wetsuit and neoprene socks. You will be provided with a helmet, life jacket and carabiners for rappelling. Once informed and prepared, you can start your adventure through the canyons of the High Alps!

What are the options for a descent?

Our team members will choose each cliff according to your needs: family, special adrenaline or sports. However, the same cliff can lead to several routes, depending on the level of each one. For example, the cliff of Oules de Freissinière can be made entirely in sports version or only the top for a sensational adventure, but less physical and shorter. You decide.

You will have a great time, whatever your level and age. It is ideal for everyone.