Competitive hydrospeed on the Aude River
Competitive hydrospeed on the Aude: thrills on whitewater
Discover competitive hydrospeed on the Aude River, a thrilling descent through the heart of the gorges near Axat. Equipped with a float and fins, you’ll glide just above the water’s surface as you tackle the river’s rapids and currents. Led by a certified instructor, this outing offers an exhilarating whitewater swimming experience in the Pyrenees.
Your hydrospeed adventure on the Aude River
Key details about your outing:
Athletic
Ages 12 and up
About 3 hours
Starting at €51
From April to September
Belvianes-et-Cavirac
What's included
– Professional instruction
– Full equipment
– Shuttle service along the course
What you need to bring
– Swimsuit
– Towel
Sports hydrospeed on the Aude River in the Pyrenees: in pictures
Discover the adventure that awaits you on this whitewater rafting trip through the Aude Gorges. With powerful rapids, waves, and dynamic sections, hydrospeed lets you experience the river up close and personal and enjoy the thrill of the wild landscapes of the Pyrenees.




Where can you go hydrospeeding in the in the Pyrenees (South of France)?
The competitive hydrospeed descent on the Aude takes place in the Saint-Georges Gorges, upstream from Axat and Belvianes-et-Cavirac. This more dynamic section of the river features rapids, waves, and technical sections that are ideal for whitewater swimming in the Pyrenees.
Directions: 1 hour and 15 minutes from Perpignan • 1 hour from Carcassonne • 1 hour from Foix • 2 hours from Toulouse
What is a competitive hydrospeed run like?
Reception and Facilities
When you arrive, the instructor will meet you at the base and provide you with all the necessary equipment: a reinforced wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, fins, and a hydrospeed float.
Briefing and Safety
Before hitting the water, a briefing covers whitewater swimming techniques, navigating rapids, and safety guidelines.
River Rafting
Next, you’ll set off on an exhilarating hydrospeed descent down the Aude River. The rapids come one after another through the gorges, offering an immersive experience amidst the spectacular scenery of the Upper Aude Valley.
“Hydrospeed lets you experience the river up close. In the Aude Gorges, every rapid offers a unique thrill. My goal is for everyone to discover the joy of whitewater swimming while staying safe in this exceptional natural setting.”
Agathe D.
Rafting, whitewater swimming, and canoeing and kayaking instructor
A message from your hydrospeed instructor
Plan your hydrospeed adventure on the Aude River
Who can participate?
The hydrospeed adventure on the Aude River is open to anyone aged 12 and older who can swim and feels comfortable in the water. Thistrip is perfect for athletes or thrill-seekers looking to experience a dynamic whitewater activity in the Pyrenees.
Good physical condition is recommended to fully enjoy the activity.
What should you plan for?
swimsuit and a towel
We provide and fit all the necessary equipment so you can enjoy your descent in complete safety.
With us, enjoy competitive hydrospeed with complete peace of mind
Book your hydrospeed outing on the Aude River
Whitewater activities on the Aude River (rafting, whitewater swimming, and canoe-rafting) are now offered by Wilderness, the company run byAgathe, a state-certified instructor with whom we have worked for many years. To book your trip or get information about the routes, please contact their team directly.
Hydrospeed in the Upper Aude Valley



Want to learn more about the destination?
Discover other activities with Oxygen Aventure
Want to extend your adventure in the Pyrenees? Oxygen Aventure also offers other activities in Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, about 30 minutes from the whitewater base in Belvianes-et-Cavirac. Via ferrata, canyoning, and caving in the Galamus Gorges offer a unique way to explore the landscapes of the Pyrenees and the Corbières.
Frequently Asked Questions About Competitive Hydrospeed on the Aude River
At what age can you start competitive hydrospeed?
The competitive hydrospeed descent on the Aude River is open to participants aged 12 and older who can swim.
This trip is more challenging than the introductory session. It takes place in the rapids of the Aude Gorges and requires participants to be comfortable in the water.
Is competitive hydrospeed difficult?
Do you need to know how to swim to go hydrospeeding?
Yes, it is essential to know how to swim and be able to submerge yourself to practice whitewater swimming.
Is hydrospeed a safe activity?
Yes. The descents are supervised by a state-certified instructor, and a thorough briefing is conducted before entering the water.
I wear glasses. Can I keep them on during the descent?
Yes, you can keep your glasses on during the descent. We recommend using a cord to keep them from falling into the river.
What should I bring for the outing?
Just bring a swimsuit and a towel. All the necessary equipment is provided on site.
How long does the introductory hydrospeed outing last?
The trip lasts about 1.5 hours on the water and about 3 hours in total, including check-in, gear setup, transportation, instructions, and the descent.
What happens in case of bad weather?
This activity can be enjoyed even on cloudy days. If weather conditions do not allow for safety to be guaranteed, the outing may be postponed.
Can I use my phone to take pictures?
It’s not recommended to use your phone while riding, but you can use a GoPro to film your descent. You can also take photos during the ride.