Rafting Aude - Pyrénées Audoises - France

Discover rafting on the Aude with Wilderness Origin Pyrénées, your go-to destination for exciting rafting adventures located between Axat and Quillan. Our base in Belvianes and Cavirac offers direct access to stunning rafting routes suitable for all levels, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned rafters.

We believe that adventure should be accessible to everyone, which is why we offer rafting outings for children aged six and above, accompanied by their parents. Our diverse courses ensure that every participant has an unforgettable experience in complete safety, with the exhilarating white waters of the Aude providing a magnificent setting for families and friends to discover the joys of rafting together.

To enhance your experience, we provide all necessary equipment, including wetsuits, life jackets, helmets, and paddles. Our experienced guides accompany you throughout the descent to ensure your safety while offering tips to make the most of your adventure.

Our rafting routes on the Aude are tailored to accommodate every skill level, whether you’re seeking a leisurely float to enjoy the scenery or a more thrilling ride to get the adrenaline pumping. With a mix of exhilarating rapids and calmer sections, you’ll have the chance to witness the region’s natural beauty from a fresh perspective.

Join us at Wilderness Origin Pyrénées for an unforgettable rafting experience on the Aude. Book your adventure now and get ready to create lasting memories amidst nature.

Booking

Given the required organization and the limited number of spots, it is necessary to make a reservation to participate in our activities. For any additional information or questions, we are available by phone or email. Additionally, you can register directly online via our secure booking platform, where you will also find real-time availability (payment by credit card only). However, for payments in cash, by check, or holiday vouchers, please contact us to finalize your reservation.

Access Information and Items to Bring

Once your reservation is confirmed, we will send you practical information via email, including the meeting place, time, and items to bring.

On the Day of the Activity

Our white-water base is equipped with picnic tables and a shaded guinguette. You are welcome to arrive at your convenience and check in at reception upon arrival. However, it is ideally recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time. This way, we will have enough time to welcome you and explain how the activity will proceed.

The Activity

After your arrival and a visit to the restrooms and changing rooms, we will provide you with the personal equipment necessary for rafting: shoes, wetsuit, life jacket, and helmet. You only need to bring your towel, swimsuit, and a bottle of water. Once equipped, you will be transported by minibus to the starting point of the course, where you can enjoy your descent accompanied by an instructor on board the boat. Crews are formed based on your number, level, expectations, and language. Each boat can accommodate between 4 and 8 people. Before the descent, time is dedicated to explanations where your instructor will detail all safety instructions, the actions to take, and the course of the route. Swimming and bathing stops will be offered throughout the course. Your guide can also introduce you to the fauna, flora, and heritage of the Upper Aude Valley.

The Aude River springs from the Eastern Pyrenees near the ski resorts of Font-Romeu, Les Angles, and Formiguères at an impressive altitude of around 2100 metres. This stunning region is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and a wealth of outdoor activities. Just sixty kilometres further upstream from our nature sports base in Belvianes and Cavirac, you will come across the charming villages of Axat and Saint Martin Lys. It is here that the Aude cascades down from the mountains, unveiling some of the most spectacular rapids, particularly in the Saint Georges and Pierre Lys gorges. Between Belvianes and Quillan, the river adopts a more tranquil pace and the scenery opens up, providing an ideal backdrop for family-friendly water sports and fun activities such as tubing, hydrospeed, and canoeing. Finally, after its journey through the Pyrenees, the Aude flows through several towns including Limoux and Carcassonne before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea near Narbonne, situated between Béziers and Perpignan.

To ensure you enjoy a half-day in excellent conditions, both thermally and securely, all necessary equipment is provided. It is advisable to bring your swimsuit, a towel, and a bottle of water. Additionally, lockers are available at our base to store your personal belongings, such as clothing, car keys, and shoes. We recommend against bringing phones during the activity, even if they are in a waterproof pouch, due to the risk of loss or damage. Moreover, this will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without distractions.

Swimming Ability:

It is essential to know how to swim, as you will be on the water and might fall out of the boat. It is recommended to be able to swim at least 25 meters and not be afraid of submersion.

Physical Condition:

A good physical condition is important (especially on the 8km course), as rafting is a sport. You must be able to paddle and follow the instructor’s directions. To ensure safety and compatibility with our equipment, we do not recommend rafting activities for individuals weighing more than 125 kg.

Minimum Age:

Depending on the difficulty level of the river, we require participants to be at least 6 or 12 years old. Additionally, children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Appropriate Equipment:

Wear the life jacket and helmet provided, as they meet standards and are regularly checked. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is monitored and recorded. It is not possible to use your own life jackets and helmets. Regarding the wetsuit and shoes, you have the option to use your own equipment if you wish.

Follow Instructions:

Be ready to listen to and follow the safety instructions given by the instructor.

No Incompatible Medical Conditions:

Ensure that you do not have any medical contraindications for practicing white-water sports, such as heart problems or recent injuries. Feel free to inform your instructor of any issues you may encounter or any necessary equipment (such as for asthma, diabetes, allergies, etc.), so they can take it into account during the session. If you have any doubts or questions, do not hesitate to contact us before making your reservation.

Sports and Disabilities:

Certain activities, such as rafting, can be adapted depending on the type and degree of disability. We offer tailored sessions for individuals with motor, visual, auditory, or mental disabilities. It is essential to inform us in advance so that we can organize the session optimally.

Canoeing and Kayaking on the Aude, a trip in Quillan

Discover our inflatable canoeing and kayaking activities on the Aude, an experience halfway between rafting and canoeing that is also accessible from the age of 6.