What is Hydrospeed?
Hydrospeed in Barcelonnette (04) is a water activity which consists of going down the rapids of a river equipped with a float and fins. This activity, also called “ white water swimming“, is particularly appreciated by lovers of thrills and extreme sports. In France, in the Alps, theUbaye is one of the most popular rivers for practicinghydrospeed.
Ubaye in thein the Barcelonnette valley (04) is a river located in the Southern Alps, in the department of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. It takes its source at an altitude of 2,700 meters, on the southern slope at Lac du Longet near St Paul sur Ubaye, and flows into Lake Serre-Ponçon, near the town of Embrun.
Ubaye is a river very popular with water sports enthusiasts, particularly for descents in hydrospeed. It regularly hosts the French hydrospeed championships.
The hydrospeed descent into the Barcelonnette valley
To practice hydrospeed in Ubaye, it is recommended to contact Crazy Water rafting who specializes in supervising white water swimming near Barcelonnette.
Crazy Water raft at Lauzet Ubaye 04340 offers outings supervised by hydrospeed guides on the Ubaye, which allow you to discover the river's rapids in complete safety. Ubaye hydrospeed outings are accessible from the age of 10, and do not require any particular swimming skills; knowing how to swim with fins is a plus.
Hydrospeed – white water swimming in pictures
Hydrospeed suitable for beginners
Hydrospeed courses on theUbaye are suitable for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Beginners can try the easiest rapids, with moderate currents and few obstacles. The more experienced will be able to tackle the most difficult rapids, with powerful currents and numerous obstacles.
The most popular route to practicehydrospeed in Ubaye is the one between the village of Martinet and Lauzet Ubaye 04340. This 7 kilometer route offers rapids of moderate difficulty, with currents oscillating between level 3 and level 4.
The more daring can also try the impassable route of the Hauts, which offers rapids of level 4 and 5, a hydrospeed course in Ubaye unique in the Alps and throughout France.
What are the conditions for practicing Hydrospeed?
Hydrospeed in the Barcelonnette valley
The practice of hydrospeed on the Ubaye requires several conditions to be taken into account in order to ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants. Here are some of the conditions to take into consideration before embarking on this activity:
- Good physical condition : Although hydrospeed is accessible to beginners, a minimum physical condition is recommended. It is essential to be comfortable in an aquatic environment and to have a certain endurance.
- Swimming level: Swimming skills are essential. Participants must be able to swim with fins or know how to swim the front crawl.
- Minimum age: Generally reserved for people aged at least 10 years old. We also offer family descents suitable for children on request.
- Some technical prerequisites: Certain technical prerequisites may vary depending on the level of the watercourses. It is recommended to start with easier level rapids and gain experience gradually.
- Optimal season: The hydrospeed season depends on weather conditions and snowmelt. The best times to practice the activity are generally in spring (it can be very cold) and in summer, when the river flow is optimal.
- Professional supervision: Hydrospeeding on the Ubaye should ideally be done under the supervision of experienced guides. These professionals provide safety instructions, navigation techniques and are equipped to intervene if necessary.
The practice of Hydrospeed in Barcelonnette
To practice hydrospeed in Barcelonnette, it is necessary to have suitable protective equipment. It is recommended to wear a neoprene suit, neoprene slippers, a helmet and a life jacket. It is also advisable to wear sunscreen to protect yourself from UV rays.
Practicing Ubaye hydrospeed offers many thrills and allows you to discover the river from another angle. Indeed, being on the surface of the water, you can observe the banks of the river, the rocks and the surrounding landscapes of the southern Alps.
In addition, hydrospeed in Barcelonnette allows you to feel the power of the water and fight against the currents, which offers a unique and intense experience.
However, it is important to remember that practicing hydrospeed involves risks, particularly in the event of impact or collision with rocks or other obstacles. It is therefore essential to follow the safety instructions given by the guides supervising the outing, and to respect the limits of your own level of practice.
You can contact us to improve your skills individually and also get closer to a club affiliated with the French federation of canoe kayak and hydrospeed or diving, swimming in white water.
The Barcelonnette valley
In addition to hydrospeed in Barcelonnette, Ubaye offers many other nautical activities, such as rafting, the kayak, or even canyoning. The surrounding landscapes of the Alps are also ideal for hiking and exploring of nature. The typical villages of the region, such as Barcelonnette or Saint-Paul-sur-Ubaye, Jausiers offer an immersion in the history and culture of the region.
Ubaye is also renowned for its gastronomy, with specialties like Italian and Mexican food. The many restaurants in the region offer quality local cuisine, based on fresh, seasonal produce.
In summary, hydrospeed in Barcelonnette in the Ubaye valley is an ideal water activity for lovers of thrills and extreme sports. The Ubaye River offers routes suitable for all levels, and allows you to discover the surrounding landscapes from another angle. The Ubaye region also offers many other activities and discoveries, for a complete and memorable experience.