Embark on the ultimate experience offered by Ariège Évasion with the “Sensations” route, the longest route in the upper Ariège! An epic 15-kilometer descent that combines all of our routes for maximum adrenaline and a great diversity of landscapes.
Your experience
The “Sensations” route connects Sinsat to the Mercus nautical base for an estimated 3.5-hour trip. It is the most intense and comprehensive descent in the valley.
The departure takes place in a breathtaking high mountain setting, at the foot of the Quié cliffs in Sinsat. Forget the quiet acclimatisation phase: here, you immediately dive into the thick of it with challenging sections, including the famous “Tic Tac” rapid. You will need to manoeuvre your boat with precision in these playful and exhilarating currents. Because of this start without a transition, some previous experience in canoeing is highly recommended to fully enjoy the activity!
As you follow the water, you will pass through the town of Tarascon-sur-Ariège and navigate a series of small rapids until the river calms down near Bompas. The last three kilometres of your adventure will take place on the calm and majestic waters of Lake Garrabet to Mercus. A striking contrast and a welcome relaxing finale to rest your arms and admire the Pyrenean peaks! The activity is not guided: with your waterproof containers provided, you are free to stop on the banks for a picnic in the heart of nature.
Logistics made easy
Ariège Évasion takes care of the logistics for this sports day. Park in the free car park at our base in Ornolac-Ussat-les-Bains. From there, our shuttle takes you to the starting point in Sinsat (departures possible at 10 AM, 11 AM, or 12 PM). Once your 15 km journey is over in Mercus, a drop-off shuttle will pick you up to take you back to the base (departures every 30 minutes from 12 pm to 6 pm). On site, hot showers, bathrooms, and cold drinks await you to help you recover from the excitement.
What's included:
Boat rental (solo kayak or 2- to 3-seater canoe at no additional cost)
Paddles and life jackets (new, up-to-standard equipment)
Waterproof barrel for your packed lunch and personal items
Minibus shuttles (outbound trip to Sinsat and drop-off from Mercus)
Access to the base's facilities (free parking, showers, bathroom facilities)
Know before you go (mandatory prerequisites):
Minimum age: 7 years old.
It is a pre-requisite that you know how to swim well (at least 25 metres) and submerge yourself.
It is recommended to have already gone canoeing at least once to master the first rapids on this route.
Closed shoes (such as trainers) must be worn to go paddling. (Water shoes can be purchased at the front desk).
