If you didn’t know it, Hérault is full of exceptional natural sites. Here we take a look at the best spots for canyoning in Hérault (34). This region is well known for its coastal appeal and beach activities. But the region is rich in natural treasures and beautiful rivers ideal for canyoning.
A little history
Canyoning is a recent activity, with recreational canyoning emerging in the 1990s and 2000s. In the past, only hunters and fishermen ventured into canyons to feed themselves. So it was in other regions, such as the Alpes Maritimes, that this activity enjoyed great success with the public. With the arrival of specific legislation and the creation of a diploma to supervise this activity, canyoning has become more democratic and more fun. Nowadays, canyoning has established itself as a summer sports activity, attracting a varied public. Spots can be found in many regions: the Alps, the Verdon gorges, Corsica, Ariège, Ardèche, Savoie, Reunion Island, Guadeloupe and, of course, the Hérault gorges.
Canyoning in Hérault (34)
Hérault has 22 canyons, some of which are more worth a visit than others. Some canyons are vertical, others more aquatic.
Among the vertical canyons in the Hérault that we find interesting are the canyon d’Albès and the canyon de Salhens, both located in the Caroux massif. These two canyons are aimed at a sporting public, with in-depth abseiling training.
For canyons in the Hérault region combining aquatic character and a little verticality, we’d recommend the canyon of Vialaiscanyon, the Rec Grand canyon and the Ravin des arcs. Le Vialais and Rec Grand are also located in the Caroux near Mons la Trivalle. Ravin des arcs is near St Martin de Londres. The Rec Grand and Ravin des arcs canyons are incredibly beautiful initiation canyons. They are one of our flagship canyons (from age 8 upwards). The canyon du Vialais is an intermediate canyon that’s a little sportier (from age 12).
Le canyon du Rec grand et ses nombreux toboggans naturels
Canyoning in the Hérault: discovery with the Diable canyon
Our flagship canyon is located in St Guilhem le désert on the Hérault river. It’s a very playful canyon where workshops are not compulsory. You can just let yourself be carried by the water all the way down. This makes it a popular canyon for families. It will delight both experienced jumpers and contemplative types. You can try your hand at zip-lining, ejector abseiling, syphon crossings and, of course, learn to jump into the water at varying heights. Up to 9-10 m.
The main feature of this canyon is its aquatic character. We’re in a river, the Hérault, which is in water all year round, with periods of varying flow. In this Hérault canyon, we often practice the floating technique. This involves letting the water carry you on your back, with your feet forward and your arms acting like rudders.
For more information on Canyon du Diable, click here.
Canyoning Hérault (34), le canyon du diable à St Guilhem le désert !
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