HYDROSPEED-AUDE
all our hydrospeed outings
Hydrospeed In The Aude (11)
Live an unforgettable aquatic experience immersed in the rapids of the Aude gorges (11)
Made full of sensations time for a descent of whitewater swimming (or hydrospeed) in the charming village of Axat in the Aude region (11), bordering the Pyrénées-Orientales region (66).
For a first experience or for hydrospeed enthusiasts, the exceptional site of the Gorges de l'Aude will offer you a range of sensations adapted to all your desires.
Exterior Nature offers you 2 levels of hydrospeed descent in Axat (11):
- The course sports hydrospeed
Along a 7km course in the Gorges de Saint-Georges, experience the sensations provided by swimming in white water, during this descent and its class II / III rapids.
For students over the age of 12.
- The course hydrospeed feeling
Challenge the parade of Pierre-Lys. This hydrospeed course is exclusively reserved for those who already have whitewater swimming experience. Thrills await over 7km. Prepare to have your head underwater as you navigate class III/IV rapids.
For students over the age of 14.
Discover more
Hydrospeed is a whitewater sport, commonly known as whitewater swimming.
Equipped with a rigid foam float (hydrospeed), a reinforced neoprene suit, a life jacket, a helmet and flippers, you will be immersed in the rapids of the Gorges de l'Aude, for an ideal aquatic activity and a sensational moment with family or friends.
During your hydrospeed outing, you will learn how to use your body to steer through rough Class II to IV waters.
History of hydrospeed:
Whitewater swimming made its first appearance in the 50s in Canada and appeared in France 10 years later, in the 60s.
At the time, the equipment was rudimentary and only consisted of a simple pair of flippers.
It was in 1978 that the Frenchman Claude Puch invented the hydrospeed, this unsinkable rigid foam float fitted with handles, essential for swimming in white water today.
Its usefulness has proven to be multiple: protection of the torso, pelvis and arms against shocks with rocks.
The first French whitewater swimming club was born in 1980.
In 1990, the French Canoe Kayak Federation integrated hydrospeed into its disciplines. At the same time, whitewater swimming is developing as a tourist leisure activity.
Exterior Nature invites you to discover this sliding sport in the Aude region (11) on the border of the Pyrénées-Orientales, accompanied by our team of whitewater sports professionals.
A swimsuit
Please note, it is essential to know how to swim 25m and immerse yourself for a hydrospeed descent.
We provide all the necessary equipment:
- Reinforced neoprene wetsuit
- Helmet
- Safety jacket
- Neoprene slippers
- Pair of palm
- Rigid foam float (hydrospeed)
Our team of state-certified professionals are committed to offering you quality supervision so that you can enjoy your whitewater activity in complete safety.
With more than 10 years of experience, passing on our knowledge and our passion for whitewater swimming (or hydrospeed) to you is our priority. We guarantee you a unique experience, strong in emotions and sensations.
Our hydrospeed guides are at your disposal to help you experience the pleasures of this sliding sport in the Aude gorges (11) between Axat and Quillan, not far from the Pyrénées-Orientales region (66).
