• TO & Travel Agents
  • Medias
Pont roman à trois arches des Gorges de la Méouge
©Bodin B.

Top rivers in the Alps

  1. Home
  2. Alpes
  3. Get inspired
  4. Lakes and Rivers
  5. Top rivers in the Alps

Water is never far off in the Alps! Let the current lead you to a plethora of enchanting Alpine rivers and canyons for the most refreshing moments.

Hike to the Source du Var

Some of the most beautiful things must be earned and the Source du Var is no exception! Head to Chemin du Plateau d’Estenc, set at an altitude of 1,790 metres in the Parc National du Mercantour. At the start of the walk, you can choose between the summer and winter itinerary. But whether it’s adorned with greenery or snow, the Source du Var is a stunning sight in every season. After crossing the footpaths lines with majestic larches, take time to admire the immense rocky mountains contrasting with the gentle landscape of the plateau.

 

 

Get an eyeful of colour at Gorges du Cians

Set out to discover the fascinating Gorges du Cians canyon, aptly nicknamed the « Colorado of Nice ». On the programme: a 25-km footpath linking the lower gorge and upper gorge, topped with breathtaking scenery. The red shale rocks and power of Rivière du Cians offer a show you definitely don’t want to miss while you’re touring the Alps.

Enjoy a quick dip at Gorges de la Méouge

A paradise for walkers seeking a refreshing break and holidaymakers keen to rest and relax in exceptional surroundings, Gorges de la Méouge canyon is a must-do. Set in the Parc Naturel Régional des Baronnies Provençales, not far from Sisteron, Méouge boasts a radiant setting of crystal-clear waters, waterfalls and limestone cliffs.

Take to the heights at Gorges de Saint-Pierre

The aerial footpath carved into the rock at Gorges de Saint-Pierre offers a totally unique experience. In winter, the frozen landscape adds a different twist to this quasi-surreal decor, while spring is the perfect time to observe the local flora and fauna. The steep rock faces plunge down so deeply into the river below you could easily mistake this for the Grand Canyon.

Recharge your batteries at Val d’Entraunes

A genuine wilderness, Val d’Entraunes is an ode to tranquillity. Simply pick your favourite walking itinerary and head out to tackle the Alps! Nestling in the heart of Parc National du Mercantour, you’ll be amazed at this site’s rich biodiversity, overflowing with rivers, mountain streams and larch forests. Take time to contemplate the view and let the gentle murmur of water cradle you. If you want to recharge your batteries without having to plan a hike, opt for a Retrouvance outing.

Get your fill of thrills with a canoe trip on the Durance

Ideal for family outings, the Durance is a marvellous place for a canoe trip. Once you’re in the water, let the river’s natural pace propel you along and make the most of this moment out of time to observe the flora and fauna of the Alps . Once you’re back on dry land, the Parc National des Écrins and its 42,000 acres of majestic glaciers awaits you for a myriad of unforgettable excursions.

 

Play adventure games at Torrent du Guil

Set in the Vallée du Queyras, Torrent du Guil is a mountain river typical of those found in the Hautes-Alpes area. Simply stand back and admire its powerful flow and incredible blackened canyon walls – truly awe-inspiring! The Guil is also the perfect place if you’re keen to explore virgin Alpine landscapes, set between mountains and valleys.

Tame the waters of the Ubaye

The Ubaye is without a doubt the most emblematic river of the Alps. Sometimes wild and sometimes tranquil, the Ubaye goes with the flow of the surrounding Alpine scenery. Guided by the bubbling current, you can enjoy a walk departing from Lac de Serre-Ponçon to admire the stunning Alpine landscapes of canyons, mountains and forests. We recommend stopping off at Martinet-Lauzet to make the most of the jaw-dropping views over the Falaises de Méolans cliffs and explore the Ex Infran du Bas – the wildest area in the Vallée de l’Ubaye.

Discover the secret Gorges of Fontgaillarde

Lesser-known that its supposedly more-spectacular peers, Gorges de Fontgaillarde in the Verdon is a genuine haven for outdoor sports lovers! You’ll love the ultra-wild Alpine decor and little waterfalls tumbling down into the river on the way to the gorge. Pack a picnic to make the most of Gorges de Fontgaillarde’s gorgeous scenery when you arrive.

Close