There are loads of possible outdoor activities / extreme sports to do in the region and below just highlight some of the possibilities -
RIVER CANYONING NEAR ST PAUL DE VENCE
The South of France is a major destination for canyoning and the Alpes-Maritimes region has some of the best descents. The diversity of the landscape and the variety of the canyons attract both beginners and more experienced enthusiasts alike. Children can go canyoning from about 8 years old as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
Canyoning is a lot of fun. It involves making your way down a narrow river or stream on foot, sliding down natural waterslides, jumping into deep crystal clear pools, and abseiling down waterfalls. You need to wear a wetsuit to protect you from the cool alpine water and any potential scrapes on rocks. It’s also a challenging and very social activity, and the sport takes you to some of the most stunning scenery in the south of France.
WHITE WATER RAFTING IN THE GORGES DU VERDON
Full of thrills and spills, rafting is the perfect white water team activity. The inflatable boat is powered by a crew of 4-8 pax and maneuvered by the guide who ensures your safety. Whatever your white water experience you’ll enjoy this refreshing activity. Accessible to all under optimal safety conditions, rafting is the predilection activity for families.
The emerald waters of the Verdon have cut through Provence, north of the French Riviera, to create Europe’s greatest canyon. From its riverhead at the Col d’Allos (2247m) to where it joins the Durance River, the Verdon River flows some 175 km. Known as the Gorges du Verdon, the 22km of navigable river from Castellane to ‘Point Sublime’, the entrance of the Grand Canyon, is one of the most popular rafting courses in the South of France.
KAYAKING/CANOEING ON THE SORGUE
Canoeing or kayaking down the Sorgue river is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon. The Sorgue is a crystal-clear river that comes out of the ground at Fontaine de Vaucluse where your paddling adventure begins. You row downstream along a verdant avenue of trees to Isle sur la Sorgue, where a bus will bring you back to where you started. The river is a beautiful emerald green much of the way and you may spot a beaver or coypu, as well as drifting over the trout beneath you. At certain points you can stop off and have a swim if you are bold – the water temperature is 13C/55F year-round
HANG-GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING
Experience the thrill of gliding through the air. The hills and heights of the Côte d'Azur and Provence mountains allow for good thermals for hang-gliders, paragliders and parapente. The launch must be made from an authorised, listed site, of which there are 40 along the Riviera. Popular paragliding sites include Gourdon, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Mont Ventoux.
ACCROBRANCHING
Accrobranching is like an obstacle course in the trees. Walkways, rope bridges, swings, nets and zip lines, all strung up between pines trees. Children love this and because the courses graduate from beginners to really tough, there is something for grown-ups too.
HOT AIR BALLOONING
See the spectacular backdrop of Provence from the sky. A hot air balloon flight is a thrilling and serene experience that will stay with you forever.
