The Verdon Gorge, the largest canyon in Europe, is one of the favorite places for vacationers during the summer season. Located in the PACA (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur) region, in the Alpes de Haute Provence, this canyon will make you appreciate the beauty of its landscape. Emerging at the Col d'Allos, its emblematic river in the south of France, is ideal for water sports thanks to its numerous currents. Young and older people are seduced by the feelings provided by these descents. Rafting is a perfect example, so what are you waiting for?

Where to go rafting in the Verdon Gorge?

• Castellane: From this small village in the Alpes de Haute-Provence, you will take a trip between 2 to 5 hours of pure happiness. Located just under 50 minutes from Entremont, you will enjoy the magnificent and breathtaking landscapes of the north of the PACA region. You will have fun in the crystal-clear waters of the Verdon, between mountain landscapes and Provencal villages, lakes and cliffs, and plains and waterfalls. Between the currents and waves, you will appreciate the beauty of the landscapes and the feelings they will give you. You may be lucky enough to spot some of the region's emblematic animals, such as the gliding vulture in the Grand Canyon. Between the Castillon and Sainte Croix lakes, you will live an unforgettable time that will make you want to come back!

• Les Salles-sur-Verdon: This village located on the shores of Lake Sainte Croix, in the Var department, also offers you the chance to have fun and excel yourself aboard a raft, on the impressive Verdon River. Several descents can be made from this one. Whether for families wishing to discover the discipline and the fabulous landscapes of this French jewel, or for the more athletic with more ambition to run the rapids in search of more sensations, happiness is there. These descents allow you to access the most picturesque natural landscapes of the region and even reach the Artuby bridge, the highest in Europe. Discovering two French prides in a single getaway, isn't it a dream? It is one hour from Castellane and Draguignan and one hour and a half from Aix-en-Provence.

Which experience to choose?

From one of these starting points, you will be able to do different types of activities according to your tastes and desires. The Verdon is a river that can be divided into three parts, each of them with its own characteristics, so our rafting centers will offer you three types of options:

- If you are looking for a first rafting experience, whether you are with friends or family, the course of the low gorges will be perfect for you. It is an initiation course accessible to everyone, in the heart of the quietest point of the Verdon, which will allow you to enjoy the feelings of rafting in a controlled way. It is accessible from the age of six, so it is perfect even for the youngest and for families accompanied by their children! This is the "discovery" formula par excellence.

- Those who wish to experience a little more thrill can choose the Middle Verdon route. Whether you are a beginner or already experienced, it will allow everyone to have fun in the water without too many turbulences, but without lacking a good dose of adrenaline! Opt for this classic formula open to all.

- For all the professionals of the descents, the brave and those tempted by intense feelings, hang on in the Grand Verdon. Between intense currents and waves, you will evolve on a course ranging from 6 to 100 meters wide and from 250 to 700 meters deep. Hold on tight, because you will be left breathless! If you find yourself defined in this section, this is certainly the “sport” formula you should definitely choose.

Finally, for those who can’t decide between the big currents and the peacefulness of the waves of the low gorges, the rafting centers will offer you a package through a "comprehensive" formula. The rafting trip lasts about six hours and includes different types of water currents to satisfy everyone on board. During this rafting day, you will live many different emotions and you will love it! You can also combine this activity with canyoning in Verdon Gorge.

Who can do this activity?

In the Verdon Gorge, rafting can be practiced from the age of six. However, they will indicate that this age is only illustrative, as it depends mainly on the state of the river. As it is subjected to natural conditions, for example, it can quickly become livelier or softer depending on the weather. However, depending on the segment of river, the minimum age for the trip may increase. For example, in the Grand Canyon, you can enjoy the thrill and adrenaline of the river from the age of 16.

Everyone can raft as long as they can swim and dive.

How to dress on the day of the experience?

We will provide you with all the professional equipment you need to enjoy rafting. We will lend you helmets, wetsuits and life jackets. All you need to bring is your swimsuit and sneakers. We do not recommend water shoes or sandals. Once you are dressed and you’ve been informed about the activity and safety instructions, you will start your adventure on the Verdon River with a qualified instructor on board. He knows the area perfectly and will make sure you enjoy a safe and fun descent.

When is the best time to do it?

The centers are open from April to October, every day during this period. However, in summer, the days may vary. The flow of the river, and therefore the level and intensity of the water, depends on the Castillon dam. Your instructor will keep you informed in case this happens, so you can reschedule the activity, so don't worry!

This activity will be ideal for young and old. A perfect combination of adventure sport and local landscapes, you will love this unique experience in an unforgettable environment.