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Ready to take on the power of the Verdon’s current? Hydrospeed, also known as white-water swimming, awaits you for a memorable aquatic adventure. Lying on a float and propelled by fins, you become one with the river. From our camping site in the Verdon, L’Oasis du Verdon, adventure is within easy reach. This guide gives you all the essential information to plan your hydrospeed outing in the Gorges du Verdon.
To help you quickly visualise your upcoming adventure, here is a table summarising the most important details.
| Feature | Key details |
|---|---|
| Required level | Sporty. Good physical condition and confidence in the water are essential. |
| Minimum age | Variable, generally between 12 and 16 years old depending on the provider. |
| Activity duration | Around 3 hours in total, including 1.5 to 2 hours of actual descent on the Verdon. |
| Average price | Between €55 and €60 per person for a half-day outing. |
| Best period | April–June and September for stronger flows. In July–August, only on Tuesdays and Fridays. |
| Starting point | Mainly the Carajuan bridge, about 15 km downstream from Castellane. |
Hydrospeed places you right at the heart of the action, unlike rafting where you remain a passenger. Lying on your float and driven by fins, you feel every wave and every current. This total immersion delivers unique gliding sensations, while teaching you how to read the river and manage eddies and counter-currents.
This activity takes place in the heart of the Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, between towering cliffs and turquoise waters – an experience that is both athletic and awe-inspiring.
Accessible to anyone who can swim and has a good level of fitness, hydrospeed is ideal for thrill-seekers looking for a dynamic and unforgettable adventure.
Planning your hydrospeed outing in the Gorges du Verdon depends on two main factors: the route and the dam release schedule.
Most descents take place on a specific section of the Middle Verdon. The starting point is the Carajuan bridge, around 15 km from Castellane. This is where the gorges begin to narrow and the current accelerates, creating perfect rapids for white-water swimming.
The route passes through evocatively named sections such as “Les 3 Toboggans” and the famous “Solitaire” (Class IV), before a spectacular finish at the entrance to the Couloir Samson.
The flow of the Verdon is regulated by EDF dams upstream, directly affecting white-water activities.
On other summer days, when the Verdon’s water level is lower, it is a great opportunity to discover another activity: aquatic hiking (or aqua trekking), which lets you explore the canyon on foot and by swimming.
The Castellane area is home to many qualified professionals. All guides hold a state-certified qualification, ensuring a safe and well-supervised experience. Here are some well-known operators for organising your hydrospeed session in the Verdon:
Online reviews often highlight the quality of supervision and the positive attitude of the guides, which is essential to fully enjoy your hydrospeed experience in the Verdon.
To make your first descent a success, good preparation is essential.
The providers supply all the technical equipment: helmet, full reinforced neoprene wetsuit, life jacket, fins and float. You only need to bring a swimsuit, a towel and a pair of closed shoes (such as trainers) suitable for water use.
Hydrospeed is a safe activity when properly supervised. The golden rule: listen carefully to the guide’s briefing and follow their instructions closely. You must be able to swim at least 25 metres and not be afraid to put your head under water.
Lying on the float, grip the handles firmly. Propulsion comes from your legs through effective kicking, while your body helps steer the float. Stay relaxed to better feel the movement of the current and conserve your energy.
After an emotion-filled day on the Verdon, imagine the pleasure of returning to the comfort and tranquillity of your accommodation. Our Camping L’Oasis du Verdon awaits you to relax and share the memories of your hydrospeed adventure in the Gorges du Verdon. Book your stay and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
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