All about the practice of water sports in the Pyrenees
Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre, central village of the Hautes-Pyrénées, is an inevitable passage of water sports in the Pyrenees. Alternating fast torrents and calm zones, Le Gave de Pau flows on this charming town of Hautes-Pyrénées and is considered by lovers of thrills in water as one of the most interesting sites in France. The practice of water sports is a major asset for this village in the Hautes-Pyrénées.
Several rafting and kayaking stations offer different courses and activities for both beginners and advanced competitors, the Gave de Pau is one of the best natural training pools in the world. Note that Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre hosts each year on its waters the slalom kayak world cup as well as several national freestyle competitions.
Water sports in the Pyrénées
Descent in rafting, miniraft, airboat, hotdog, canoe, kayak.
The Gave de Pau, collector of a watershed spread over many valleys of the Hautes Pyrénées and the Pyrenees Atlantiques, offers a flow allowing quality navigation even in the driest periods. In summer, from the beginning of July, several organizations offer activities such as rafting, miniraft, hotdog, canoeing, kayaking on the Gave de Pau.
Rafting et miniraft
Rafting, the must of the water sports in the Pyrenees, is a group sport consisting of sailing on rivers arms alternating fast water and calmer water. By sailing aboard this inflatable raft with a paddle, you will enjoy both the exceptional setting of the Gave de Pau, discover the banks that are inaccessible from the land, Intense adrenaline. These inflatable rafts are designed for rafting and are unsinkable and very stable, allowing you to cross rapids that are inaccessible to most boats (except canoes, kayaks and hydros). The large loading capacity of these boats makes it possible to bring food and equipment or to measure themselves in team to the rapids.
It is a convivial moment in group or in family from the age of 7 years not to be missed. You will discover the different rafting centers of our region by clicking on this page
kayak in the Pyrénées
Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre is one of the most famous spots in France for its descents of the Gave de Pau in Kayak. Practiced throughout the year, you will find several organizations of water sports proposing you different formulas either individually or in group. Whatever your level of practice, from the most experienced sports enthusiasts to the novice sports enthusiast looking for thrills, you will find several addresses on this link allowing you to practice these water sports safely.
HYDROSPEED
The Hydrospeed activity is a gliding activity which is practiced on the Gave de Pau. The hydrospeed consists of descending our eventful watercourse equipped with a small float, a reinforced combination and a pair of fins. This discipline is very popular in periods of high heat because you will enjoy both the freshness of the Gave de Pau and unforgettable sensations in a wild and natural setting. Practicing water sports in the Pyrenees, you have to try this unique experience, consult the organizations by clicking on this link
photo d’hydrospeed : les edelweiss du leman