Refreshing thrills for all ages and abilities! Discover canyoning in the Ossau Valley in the Pyrenees.
This outdoor white-water activity consists of descending a deep river (canyon or gorge) using walking, jumping, swimming, natural slides and abseiling. Half-day or full-day outings, ideal for families aged 10 to 77 or friends! This activity requires a very good knowledge of the natural environment, particularly because of the variations in water flow. The presence of a professional is strongly recommended.The main canyons in Ossau
There are around ten canyons in the Ossau Valley. Their ratings vary from very easy to difficult.
The Canyon du Canceigt (Béost)
A short descent with a very attractive finish. Well-equipped canyon for beginners to advanced.
Fun and enjoyable for a half-day trip, with a constant flow of water, even in summer. Steep passages with an underground atmosphere.
Practical information
Level: Easy
Technique: Rope technique, river progression, jumps, slides, highest waterfall: 13 metres
Period: May to October
Duration: Approach walk 5 minutes, descent 2 h 30, return 15 minutes
The Soussouéou Canyon (Gabas)
A varied and pleasant gorge carved out of granite in the heart of a forest. A fun introductory canyon where crystal-clear water flows endlessly through a multitude of small slides and pools. This is the best-known canyon in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
Practical information
Level: Easy
Technique: Rope technique, river progression, horizontal progression, jumps, slides, de-escalation, highest waterfall: 10 metres
Period: June to September
Duration: Approach walk 30 minutes, descent 2 h 30 to 4 hours, return 5 minutes
The Canyon du Bitet - lower section - (Gabas)
An emblematic route in the Ossau Valley. The descent offers special moments in a wild and particularly beautiful setting. Numerous pools and waterfalls accompany the descent. The grand cascade remains the key passage of the route, with a brief but magnificent underground passage.
Practical information
Level: Intermediate - Sporty
Technique: Rope technique, river progression, horizontal progression, jumps, slides, de-escalation, highest waterfall: 32 metres
Period: July to October
Duration: 0 to 25-minute approach walk, 5-hour descent, 5-minute return.
Canyoning in all seasons!
Canyoning can now be enjoyed in winter too!
Thanks to advances in equipment, canyoning is now a winter sport. Equipped with wetsuits specially designed and adapted for extreme conditions, come and discover the snowy and icy canyons of Ossalon.
Practical info:
- Prerequisite: previous abseiling experience
- Age: from 17 years
- Level: sporty
- Period: winter