Step into the Haut Chassezac and let the river set the pace: a full-day canyoning adventure through limestone gorges, natural slides, and cold pools. Small groups, full safety kit, and guide-shot photos make this an accessible yet demanding Ardèche classic.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You hit the car park before the sun warms the limestone cliffs. The group gathers behind a wooden cabin at the Belvédère, neoprene and helmets piled like modern armor. For the next four hours the Haut Chassezac will decide how brave you feel: it dares you into turquoise pools, teases you with natural slides and asks for a willing body at the lip of optional jumps. The river is not polite — it moves, nudges, and rewards the bold with cold, bright runs and small, basalt-rimmed waterfalls.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–6 hours (4 hours activity, including approach and return)
Fitness Level
Should be in good cardiovascular shape with regular activity; comfortable swimming in open, cold water is required
Wildlife
History
The Chassezac canyon slices through limestone shaped since the Jurassic; shepherding and chestnut cultivation have historically defined local rural life.
Conservation
Guides emphasize leaving no trace—group sizes are capped at 10 to reduce impact, and participants are asked to carry out all trash and stick to established entry/exit points.
Reserve your spot on the Haut Chassezac, Canyoning Sports Day in Ardèche today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early and measured
Plan to be at the Belvedère car park 20–30 minutes before departure so staff can record height/weight/shoe size and fit equipment without holding the group up.
Wear a swimsuit under your clothes
You’ll change into a wetsuit on site — a swimsuit speeds the process and saves time between the water and the picnic.
Be honest about fitness and weight
Canyoning requires sustained swimming, climbing and exposure to cold water; disclose health or weight concerns during booking so guides can plan accordingly.
Trust the guide photos — and bring a small snack
Guides take and share photos of your descent, so you can skip an action camera; pack energy-dense snacks for the post-canyon regroup.
Swimsuit
Wear under clothing for quick wetsuit changes and comfort in cold water.
Quick-dry base layer or fleece
Keeps you warm after the canyon when temperatures drop in spring mornings.
spring
Reusable water bottle and snacks
Hydration and a solid picnic are essential after several hours of exertion.
summer
Light waterproof / dry bag
Useful to keep car keys and a spare layer dry between the meeting point and the canyon.