On this mind altering trip, we aim to submerse you in the world of canyoning combined with the beauty and tranquility of the French Pyrenees. Ariege and the surrounding area is a Mecca for canyoning and has some of the most iconic canyons in the south of France. Bordering Spain the climate during the summer months is very pleasant offering the most comfortable environment to be in the water.

Ariege is based just over an hour drive from Toulouse or Carcassonne airport, and right in the middle of canyoning country. We will be based at Spelio Canyon Ariege in the heart of the mountains. All equipment will be provided, and from here we have access to many canyons and cave systems. The Accommodation at Gitamiglos, a beautiful, comfortable chalet offers you full board, Breakfast, Lunch and Evening meal, including local wine and mountain cheese, so after and exhilarating day in the canyons you can immerse yourself into the French culture and local cuisine.

The week will involve canyoning trips to suit your ability, training sessions will be on offer and full guided excursions will take place daily.

We have spent years canyoning both recreationally and professionally all over the world but we always find ourselves returning to the French Pyrenees. Our experience and knowledge of these canyons is vast and we want to share our passion and this amazing experience with you.

Whether you are new to canyoning or fairly experienced, the Ariege region has so much to offer. Many of the canyons you will explore are full day experiences, beginning with a stunning hike in top of the descent. From here under the instruction and Guidance of two UKCA instructors you will descent the canyons in the most exhilarating way. Learning how to set your own ropes, rappel yourself and tackle epic jumps. Some of the canyons are very accessible and almost roadside, whereas some of the longer and larger canyons require up to a 2 hour hike in. The canyons around Ariege tend to be reasonably aquatic and relatively open, with lots of rappels and jumps. On every trip we will carry water, snacks and lunch. The lunch will be local meats cheeses and baguettes, with fruit and optional wine. There are also many caving systems in the area, which can be another option. Some of the canyons we will do on our trip will be:

Canyon de Marc (V2.A2.II)
Canyon de l’Artigue (V3.A5.III)
Canyon de l’Escales (V3.A5.III)
Canyon de l’Estat (V3.A3.III)
Canyon de l’Orlu (V2.A5.I)

Canyon de l’Argensou (V3.A3.II)
Canyon de Luqenac (V3.A3.I)
Canyon de l’Argensou Integral (V3.A2.II)
Canyon de Subra (V3.A3.III)
Canyon de l’Aggensou Inferior (V2.A2.I)

Find out more information about the International Grading System.

We don't strive to be the biggest but we are passionate about being the best. We will offer you the best equipment and the most experienced and qualified guides. Our knowledge of the local area means we can take you to the best places to grab a bite to eat, or after a day in the canyons we know some of the best French bars for a cold beer or glass of wine. 

We will base ourselves at Speleo Canyon Ariege. This Canyoning and Caving center is the most established in the Pyrenees. They use the highest quality equipment and the most up to date techniques. The Canyons will be selected in country to suit the group’s ability, and weather conditions. We work on a maximum ratio of 1 instructor to 4 trainees this gives you the best experience with your guide for the week.

On your trip to the Pyrenees with The Canyoning Company you will be accompanied by a UKCA and ICOpro Instructors, Ben Case and George Yates. But for the local canyon knowledge and ultimate experience we will be hosted by Rodolphe Strum. EX CEO and Head Master Trainer of ICOpro, he is the, owner and director of Speleo Canyon Ariage. Rod has lead the way with the development of canyoning worldwide and is a very influential canyoneer. In 2011, Rod lead the first Chamje Khola expedition in Nepal, the world’s Largest canyon. Rodolph has over 30 years’ experience guiding and instructing in the mountains and speaks fluent English.

Our Pyrenees tour is ideal for anyone who would like to explore more about canyoning. It is aimed at a beginner/ intermediate level. As with all our tours and experiences we require a basic level of fitness.

• You should have some experience canyoning or similar adventure sport.
• You should have a good level of fitness.
• You should be able to swim.
• You should be confident around water.
• You should be comfortable around heights.

The canyons can involve more technical rope work which means some experience abseiling is important. The canyons may have big jumps or long abseils. The approach to the canyons can be up to 2 hrs of uphill walking. The more advanced canyons can be more committing which means the ability to walk out of the canyon can be reduced due to its depth or steep walls. These canyons can last 3+ hours in the canyon. That said you don’t need to be an athlete!! On the hike ins we take lots of breaks and soak up the scenery. If you have any concerns or questions just contact us.

From our personal experience we have chosen the most suitable accommodation for your trip.
Gitamiglos is situated in Miglos a small village on the mountain side just outside Ariege. Gitamiglos is a collection of local Git’s, local chalet style accommodation, with private bedrooms, balconies, kitchens and communal areas. The main Git has a bar, swimming pool and large communal dining area. Gitamiglos is the perfect place to relax, take in the mountain scenery and have a glass of local
wine by the pool. In the evening the bar opens for free apero, afternoon drinks and snacks. Dinner is served around 8 o’clock with a local 4 course meal including a platter of local mountain cheese and the finest local wines. Every morning breakfast is served including cheeses, local bread and conserves, juice and lots of coffee, a perfect way to set you up for a day canyoning.

We will all be staying in a near by Git, this way we can plan the next day, arrange times, share stories and socialise in the evening.

You will be required to book your own flights to Toulouse or Carcassonne airport. It is preferable to choose a morning or afternoon arrival time. We will be around all day to pick up and transfer you to the accommodation (2 hours' drive away). 

Ben and George will be in the country before the trip begins. If it is cheaper, and/or easier for you to fly out a day early free, but also please note we only have the accommodation for the tour dates so it will be your responsibility to arrange any extra night’s accommodation/food etc.  

Canyoning Insurance

Canyoning is a moderate risk activity and does involve inherent risks, because of this The Canyoning Company LTD has full public liability and Indemnity insurance. This means you are covered for any canyoning injury or accident as a direct result of our fault. Our insurance does not cover personal injury, flights baggage or cancelation.

Travel Insurance

It is imperative you get your own canyoning travel insurance before coming out on this trip. This will cover you for personal injury, baggage, cancelation and mountain rescue. The Canyoning Company require your policy number before the departure date.

UPGRADE TO PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY

The canyons we visit are beautiful places. The Adventure Photographers will expertly capture our journey from start to finish ensuring you can relive every moment. You will receive the entire collection of full-resolution digital images, shot with top of the range DSLR cameras and delivered in your own private online gallery within 6 hours of your trip.

HOW TO BOOK

Once you’ve made your trip booking with The Canyoning Company, simply contact The Adventure Photographers.