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Watersports Guide for La Plagne

Discover the top La Plagne watersports

Location
Aime La Plagne
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Updated

From adrenaline-pumping rapids to gentle paddling, La Plagne has watersports for every pace. Rafting, canyoning and paddleboarding are all on offer in stunning mountain surroundings.

La Plagne is a really good base for summer watersports, with fast-flowing mountain rivers and scenic alpine lakes just a short drive away. You can try white water rafting for a thrilling ride through glacier-fed rapids, or test your balance with stand-up paddleboarding on calmer waters. For something more adventurous, have a go at canyoning or hydrospeeding – both offer an exhilarating way to explore the mountain streams, with expert guides on hand to keep things safe. Most activities are suitable for beginners and families, with options to suit all energy levels.

Jump to

  1. Canoeing / Kayaking
  2. Canyoning
  3. Hydro-speeding
  4. Paddleboarding
  5. Rafting

Canoeing / Kayaking

Canoeing / Kayaking Watersports in La Plagne

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Canyoning

A not-so-gentle but extremely refreshing summer activity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into the mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides – just make sure you choose a warm day!
You will make your way along rivers and rapids, using the river bed as a natural obstacle course. Not suitable for very young children, but anyone over the age of about eight can take the (very cold) plunge and try canyoning. With the safety of a guide, everyone can abseil down cascades, splash into pools and ride the river rapids. You can choose from short beginners’ routes or longer ones for the more adventurous.
Different companies will have their own policies on age limits but usually, unless they are booked onto a children's activity course, anyone under the age of about 14 years old will have to be accompanied by an adult. A basic level of swimming ability is required for safety reasons. There are a number of adventure companies that offer guided descents down the local waterways.

Canyoning Watersports in La Plagne

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Hydro-speeding

Hydrospeeding is one of the newer 'extreme' water sports to hit the market, it's a fun and exhilarating way to get yourselves down a river!. Using a large float, which bears a resemblance to a bodyboard, be ready to cling on for dear life as you send yourself hurtling down the rapids! This activity is a little more demanding physically than rafting or canoe rafting, but allows you to discover the unique sensation of surfing down white water rivers. It is also accessible to all, no need to be a professional diver or swimmer, you just have to be smart at using the water movements, obstacles and waves.
There's plenty of protection from the icy water elements as you'll be given a wetsuit, safety helmet and flippers. You will need to bring a towel, swimwear and if you wear glasses, a cord to keep them on. Guides will brief you with a safety demonstration at the beginning and there’s a vehicle to meet you at the end of the rapids that will shuttle you back to your starting destination. There are a number of adventure companies who will take you out for your hydro speeding experience.

Hydro Speeding Watersports in La Plagne

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Paddleboarding

Stand up paddleboarding is becoming increasingly popular. Originally from Hawaii, it is a great way to enjoy the mountain scenery and get away from the summer heat, whilst not being very demanding. There are a number of watersports centres in La Plagne offering paddleboarding.

Rafting

White water rafting

If you haven't experienced white water rafting before, then this is a definite 'must try' on your list of activities to do! There are a number of trained guides in the resort who will let you experience some of the best white water rafting available in the Alps. From the middle of May until September, the mountain rivers flow furiously as they are fed from the melt waters running off the glaciers high above the town. There are various options available from a three hour adrenaline rush to a full day excursion - this activity is guaranteed not to disappoint.

Rafting Watersports in La Plagne

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Latest News & Reviews

Find out all about what is happening in La Plagne and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in the valley. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.

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Upcoming Events

Each of the La Plagne resorts, as well as the surrounding villages, holds a number of events throughout the year. Ice climbing competitions and ski races take place in the winter months, in addition to the usual après-ski parties featuring live bands and DJs. The summer, on the other hand, attracts a number of trail running and cycling competitions, as well as live concerts.

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