Rafting in Auvergne, sounds fun right? If you’re traveling through Haute-Loire, Allier or Puy-de-Dome in France, make sure to explore the region’s waterways with an exhilarating rafting adventure in Auvergne!
The Auvergne region is home to many rivers, and while not all of them are suitable for navigation, some sections offer the perfect setting for water activities. Rafting in Auvergne is an ideal way to combine adventure with exploring the stunning landscape.
If you’re searching for an exciting summer activity, consider rafting in Auvergne! Whether with family or friends, it’s a surefire way to have a thrilling and unforgettable time.
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Best Places to Rafting in Auvergne
1. The Gorges de la Sioule
Level: easy
Duration: between 2h30 and 5h
Distance: from 10 to 20 kilometers
Looking for an exciting and adventurous way to explore the Sioule river and its stunning surroundings? Why not try rafting in Auvergne? This beautiful region is home to a wide range of rivers, some of which are perfect for water activities like rafting.
The Sioule river is a tributary of the Allier river and is a popular spot for rafting enthusiasts. The gorges of the Sioule offer spectacular views and thrilling rapids, making it an ideal location for a day of adventure with family or friends. With various tour options available, ranging from shorter 10-kilometer trips to full-day excursions, you’re sure to find the perfect adventure for you.
The courses
Starting your rafting journey from Saint-Gal-sur-Sioule, you’ll enjoy a leisurely 10-kilometer descent to Ebreuil. The river is relatively calm, with only a few rapids, so you’ll have ample time to take in the natural beauty around you. Don’t miss the chance to explore the megalith and heather moors at Péraclos, and take a break at one of the many small beaches along the way.
But for the more adventurous, the Menat to Saint-Gal-sur-Sioule route is the way to go. This section of the river is more tumultuous, perfect for thrill-seekers who want a challenge. Be prepared for more overturned rafts and plenty of laughs! And if you’re feeling up to it, you can even combine both routes for a full day of rafting.
As you journey down the river, keep an eye out for raptors soaring above the cliffs. You’ll pass between granite rocks, evidence of the volcanic activity that shaped the Auvergne region in the past.
For the 10-kilometer route, plan for half a day and about 2.5 hours of actual rafting. If you opt for the full day, a 20-kilometer journey will have you rafting for about 5 hours, so make sure to pack a picnic lunch!
2. The descent of the Allier
Level: intermediate
Duration : 3h
Distance: 12 kilometres
Are you ready for an adrenaline rush in the heart of nature? Head to Haute-Loire and experience the exhilarating Gorges de l’Allier rafting route. This 12-kilometer section takes you from Monistrol d’Allier to Prades and promises to be the best whitewater spot for rafting in Auvergne.
With classes 3 and 4 rapids, and even a maximum level of 5, this descent guarantees a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. So gear up, and get ready to feel the rush of the river while taking in the stunning natural surroundings of the Haut-Allier.
The course
You and your companions will board a raft that can accommodate up to 8 people for an exciting day of rafting in Auvergne. The 12-kilometer route from Monistrol d’Allier to Prades takes you through the Haut-Allier and the best whitewater spot in the region. The river ranges from class 3 to 4, ensuring plenty of thrills and excitement during your journey.
As you navigate the Allier, you’ll encounter both calm and tumultuous waters, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery of one of the most remote places in the area. The Allier is home to the last strain of wild salmon in Europe, which migrates here annually to breed. This speaks to the pristine quality of the water and the tranquility you’ll experience during your rafting adventure in Auvergne.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of volcanic rocks and basaltic organs, which were carved by
The rafting descent on the Gorges de l’Allier promises a thrilling adventure for those seeking an adrenaline rush. The 12-kilometer route from Monistrol d’Allier to Prades takes you through class 3 and 4 rapids, providing an exciting rafting experience. The boat can carry up to 8 people, making it a great group activity to enjoy with family and friends.
The landscape along the way is simply breathtaking. You will witness the remote and untouched parts of the region with exceptional views of volcanic rocks, basaltic organs, and charming hamlets with stone houses. You may also spot wild salmon and otters during the descent, adding to the experience.
The rapids with names like sinus rinse, the dumpster, and the crying rock are a testament to the adventure that awaits you. But don’t worry, calm passages will give you a chance to catch your breath and admire the beauty of the surroundings. Small beaches along the course are perfect for a quick rest or a bite to eat.
3. The descent of the Loire
Level: easy to intermediate
Duration: between 3 and 6 hours
Distance: 10 to 24 kilometers
Embark on an exciting rafting adventure along the Loire river, which begins in Mont-Gerbier-de-Jonc and crosses the beautiful department of Haute-Loire. There are different routes to choose from, and if you’re a beginner, the Vorey to Chamalières route is perfect for you.
This 11-kilometer journey is covered in half a day and features calm waters with only a few peaceful rapids. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn how to maneuver the raft with a paddle and experience the thrill of rafting. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure and discover the stunning beauty of Haute-Loire from a unique perspective!
Other courses
From the Gorges du Lion to Lavoûte-sur-Loire via Peyredeyre, a second route will take you through 10 kilometers of beautiful countryside landscapes. You will appreciate the surroundings of Le Puy-en-Velay, whose cathedral is a Unesco heritage site. Arriving at Lavoûte-sur-Loire, you can admire the impressive silhouette of the Lavoûte-Polignac castle which stands at 45 meters and is enclosed by one of the meanders of the river.
If you are looking for a longer and more thrilling route, choose the section between Goudet and Coubon. Here, you will be upstream of the river, where it is still powerful and wild. As you raft through the forest, you will come across villages perched on rocky spurs and magnificent castles. It’s an unforgettable adventure that will make you feel the adrenaline rush!
Practical information
Descent rates
La Sioule (10 km) : 20€ per person
L’Allier (12 km) : 49€ per person
La Loire :
- Discovery trail Vorey-Chamalières (11 km): 35 € per person
- Gorges du Lion – Peyredeyre – Lavoûte-sur-Loire (10 km): 45 € per person
- Goudet – Coubon (24 km) : 55 € per person
Rafting is not only fun but also safe with the help of the expert guidance of professional helmsmen. Rates for this exciting water activity include transportation from the city center to the starting point and back, and equipment rental such as wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets.
Looking to make your special event unforgettable? Rafting organizations offer special packages, perfect for birthdays, bachelor or bachelorette parties, and other celebrations. Contact them to learn more and make your plans a reality!
Additional information
- A minimum age of 15 years is required for the descent of the gorges of the Sioule, 10/12 years for the gorges of the Allier.
- Rafting in Auvergne does not require any previous experience, apart from knowing how to swim.
- All rafting activities in Auvergne are supervised by qualified instructors.
- Rafting in Auvergne is generally practiced between April and mid-October.
- The centers that offer rafting in Auvergne are specialized in outdoor activities. You can establish a program on the day<.b> or for several days with them. The opportunity to practice other white water sports such as canoeing, hot dog or canyoning, but also climbing, mountain biking …
- To be expected: swimsuit, pair of sneakers, belongings and spare shoes, possibly snack.
Wrap Up
I hope you find the article “Rafting in Auvergne: 3 Best Places To Go” helpful.