Rafting Trip Through the Verdon Gorges

Rafting: A Must-Try Activity in the Verdon

Rafting is an ideal activity to enjoy when you’re in the Verdon. Riding the rapids of the Verdon River in group rafts, getting your fill of thrills while discovering new wilderness landscapes—that’s the whole appeal of trying this must-do outdoor activity from the Gorges du Verdon campground.

There are several possible routes in the Verdon, and depending on which one you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to see different landscapes while trying out various navigation techniques.

These trips are suitable for everyone, regardless of their level of rafting experience. Whenever you set out on a trip, it’s always done safely and in a group.

The Verdon is the perfect place for outdoor activities, with its diverse landscapes and all the beauty it has to offer.
Rafting is no exception—and it adds a healthy dose of thrills to the mix.

Book your rafting trip with our partner

To get the most out of your Verdon experience during your stay at the Oasis Verdon campground, we recommend our partner, Raft Session—a passionate team with expert knowledge of the area.

Since 2001, this team of guides and tour leaders has been helping visitors explore the Gorges du Verdon through iconic activities such as rafting and water hiking. Their base, located in Castellane, welcomes vacationers from April 1 through October 30. Once there, you’ll be outfitted before setting off on your adventure and can enjoy a place to cool off before or after the activity.

Whether you’re with your partner, family, or friends, the guides will tailor each tour to your skill level and preferences to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in Europe’s largest canyon.

Book

Rafting Down the Verdon Gorges

The Verdon Gorge boasts magnificent landscapes and a variety of flora and fauna that hold many surprises, and one of the best ways to explore them is none other than rafting.

Rafting down the Verdon Gorges lets you enjoy the lush green scenery while participating in a fun, active sport that’s perfect for families or groups of friends. Anyone can go rafting as long as they know how to swim, and there are some must-try routes in the Verdon.

For those interested in whitewater rafting, the Vésubie Gorges have everything you need, including a route that’s particularly well-suited for the activity. To experience the rapids, head to the Daluis Gorges on the Var River.

Finally, for a more leisurely stroll through the turquoise rivers, start in Castellane and just go with the flow.

The Best Rafting Spots in the Gorges du Verdon

Departing from Castellane
The rafting trip through the Verdon Gorges starts in the village of Castellane. From there, set off on a 7-kilometer rafting trip that will last about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Right from the start, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of Castellane, its ramparts, its Roc, and its chapel perched nearly 200 meters high. Along the way, rapids alternate with calmer stretches.
Toward the end of the route lie the famous Barre Saint Jean rapids—a sort of waterfall that will safely splash more than a few participants.
Discovery Rafting This rafting trip is particularly well-suited for families and anyone looking to explore the Gorges du Verdon. In fact, it’s the shortest route, which can be completed in 1 hour and 30 minutes. The famous Verdon Gorges are within paddling reach: a 12-kilometer descent from Castellane, a 2.5-hour exhilarating ride spiced up by the rapids at Porte St-Jean.
More thrills in a kayak and more relaxation in a raft for a happy ending for everyone.

Pont de Soleil Rafting
The “Pont de Soleil” rafting trip is the intermediate option. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach the Pont de Soleils. The bridge is named after the small village of Soleils, located in the municipality of Trigance.
Rafting Point Sublime
This is the extended version of the route from Castellane to Point Sublime. An 18-kilometer descent that passes through all the previous rapids, including the famous “Solitaire” rapid. The “Solitaire,” located just upstream from the Samson Gorge, is the icing on the cake of this route. The final stretch between Pont de Soleil and Pointe Sublime winds through gorges of great beauty and untamed wilderness.

Top 6 Rafting Rental Companies in the Verdon

Secret River
Secret River – Castellane
Rafting, packrafting, canyoning, kayaking.
Starting at 40€ depending on the activity
Action Aventure
12 rue Nationale – Castellane
Rafting, canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, water hiking, and caving
33 to 68 euros per person depending on the activity
Parental consent required for all minors*

Haute Provence Outdoor
Huttopia Gorges du Verdon Campground – Castellane
Hiking, rafting, canoeing and kayaking, canyoning
45 to 70 euros per person, depending on the activity
Raft Session
Chemin des Hautes Listes – Castellane
Rafting, mini-rafting, canyoning, escape games, water hiking
Starting at 35 euros per person, depending on the activity
Verdon Rafting
8, Place de l’Église – Castellane
Rafting, canyoning, canoeing, hydro-speed
40 to 70 euros depending on the activity
Feel Rafting Verdon Canyoning
12 Rue Nationale – Castellane
Rafting and Whitewater Sports
Starting at 40 euros

When is the best time to go rafting in the Verdon Gorge?

The Verdon is a 166-kilometer-long river in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var departments in southeastern France. It is the southernmost river system in the French Alps, and as a result, the snow melts early, making May and June ideal months for paddling.

In July and August, twice-weekly water releases feed the Grand Canyon du Verdon, allowing kayakers to paddle the legendary Class 5 descent from Pont de Carejuan to Lac-de-Saine-Croix.

From Castellane to Point Sublime, take it easy on 2–3 rapids for a fun rafting trip for groups and families. Or leave the raft guide behind and amp up the excitement with two-person inflatable canoes. You’re guaranteed to get soaked!

How to Prepare for a Rafting Trip?

Probably the most important piece of advice is to pay close attention to everything your guide has to say.
Above all, always wear your life jacket and helmet.
Family-friendly rafting trips are available. At all times while you’re on the river, your life jacket and helmet must be securely fastened. Before getting on the raft, make sure both are properly fitted and comfortable.
And finally, let yourself be fully present and enjoy your time on the river.

Prices for a Rafting Trip on the Verdon River

Prices will depend on the course—whether it’s a long or short course, the Discovery Course, the Sun Bridge, the Sublime Point, and so on. On average, in the summer, the price is 40 euros for a “discovery” course, starting at 45 euros for the “Pont de Soleil” course, and 45 to 70 euros for the “Point Sublime” course. However, it’s important to check the starting and ending points before signing up and to compare prices.

Sports Activities Available at the Campground

Enjoy this natural setting, which is unique in the world, and try your hand at the many activities available in the Verdon Gorge.