Experience Hydrospeed on the Aude River in the French Pyrenees
Immerse yourself in the river with a buoy and fins for a unique white water adventure. Suitable for both first-timers and experienced river riders.
What is Hydrospeed?
Hydrospeed, also known as white water river swimming, is an outdoor activity where you descend a river using a buoy and fins. You lie on a foam board and navigate rapids by steering with your body and fins, giving you one of the most direct and exciting ways to experience moving water.
Hydrospeed on the Aude River
The Aude River in southern France offers spectacular scenery and thrilling rapids. You’ll explore sections of river framed by limestone gorges such as Pierre-Lys and Saint Georges while being guided and supported by professional instructors.
How It Works
Before entering the water, you’ll receive a briefing on safety techniques and how to use your equipment—buoy, fins, helmet, and reinforced neoprene suit. Then you’ll enter the river and begin your descent, feeling every wave and turn firsthand.
Hydrospeed Courses
We offer two main types of descents:
Discovery Hydrospeed
An easier introduction to hydrospeed, perfect for beginners or families. Glide through gentle rapids and learn basic river swimming techniques in a safe environment.
Sport Hydrospeed
For more adventurous participants, the sport hydrospeed route includes longer sections with more intense rapids — ideal for intermediate to experienced participants after a solid briefing and safety introduction.
Requirements & Safety
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Participants must know how to swim to take part in hydrospeed.
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A professional guide accompanies each session for safety and instruction.
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We reserve the right to modify or cancel sessions due to weather or participant skill levels.
Equipment Provided: buoy, fins, helmet, life jacket, reinforced neoprene suit.
Where to Meet
The meeting point is usually at the base located near Axat in the Aude region. Parking is available at the Pont d’Aliès roundabout and you are guided from there to the hydrospeed launch point
FAQ
Do I need to be an experienced swimmer?
Yes, all participants must know how to swim to join hydrospeed.
Is hydrospeed suitable for children?
Yes, hydrospeed is accessible to kids around 10+ depending on the route and skill level.
What equipment is included?
All safety gear including helmet, life jacket, fins, buoy, and neoprene suit is provided.
Can sessions be canceled?
Yes, sessions may be modified or canceled due to bad weather or safety reasons.