Exploring the French Alps without a guidebook…..

The French Alps is one of the most popular paddling destinations in Europe especially for British paddlers. White water of all grades is on offer so it suits all levels of paddlers from beginner to expert. Most paddlers spend their trip in Briancon and the surrounding areas. There is a very good reason for this however the French Alps offers so much more. This summer I spent eight weeks in the Alps, which gave me time to explore different regions and sections of white water, that are not documented in guidebooks. I have had many trips to the Alps and have spent a lot of time paddling the guidebook sections. These are excellent but I prefer the challenge of places where I do not know what is round the next bend.

Some of the rivers that I got to paddle are so accessible that I am unsure on why they are not in the current British guidebook. However an equal amount require long hike ins and serious rope work.

A large amount of the exploratory paddling I have done has been solo and therefore a little restrictive when looking at big falls in gorges. I find it easier to operate independently or in small groups when exploring tight rivers that I know nothing about. Especially when the rivers require a lot of time to explore. It requires time and care but can be very rewarding. I love the classic sections but the best memories from this summer are from the rivers that are tucked away in the amazing little gorges.

Almost all the sections I have looked at get paddled regularly by local boaters. They are just off the radar for most paddlers travelling from Britain as people generally come on short holidays. It is understandable, as undocumented sections require a lot more time and effort than guidebook rivers, so on a short trip it is not worthwhile, mainly due to the amount of time it takes to travel to the Alps. However even the guidebook sections can be misleading as descriptions can be opinionated and notoriously inaccurate so care must always be taken.

Some of the rivers I have paddled run from Nice up to La Grave. These include the Tinee, Vesube, Daluise, Vars, Le Grand Tabuc, Le Petit Tabuc, Torrent de Oules, Upper Biasse, Torrent de Chichin and the Upper Gyr.

There are a few other sections that require a bit more planning for various reasons such as the Upper Claree which has access issues.

I am always happy to pass information on to people who might want to try any of these sections.

Feel free to contact me anytime!