Rafting down the Isère: beware of splashes

A left-bank tributary of the Rhône, the Isère rises in the Vanoise National Park. This major 286-kilometre-long river offers a wealth of water sports activities in all seasons. Canoeing, kayaking, canyoning, swimming, hydrospeed and above all rafting are all popular with mountain tourists in summer. The rapids add to the challenge, the waterfalls add to the wonder and the memories that will stay with you - that's the programme for this trip down the Isère.

The Isère is a fast-flowing river, with many currents and a very fast flow. The relief is varied and there are some very pretty waterfalls in these 286 kilometres of water. The Pissou, de la Roche, de la Pisse, de l'Alloix and de la Fauge waterfalls are great places to see and walk if your trip takes you to the surrounding area.

With family or friends, it's all in the same boat! Coordination and adaptation are the keys to success on this descent (which takes a bit out of you). There are several options to choose from, ranging from 8 to 20 kilometres. Depending on the route you choose, there are more or fewer points of interest. Don't be afraid of the kilometres on paper - they fly by with the speed of the river's currents!

The rafting trip from Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a great way for novices to discover this white-water sport, as a guide accompanies them. In an inflatable raft, in groups of five to eight people, everyone paddles to steer the equipment along the planned route.

It's a fairly expensive activity, but the support of a professional justifies the price, which also includes shuttle transport and the equipment needed for the descent. Led by two team-mates at the front, the boat is a veritable cradle of thrills, and helmets and lifejackets are a must.

Depending on the descent chosen, holidaymakers have the chance to discover the Centron gorges. A landscape almost reminiscent of Thailand, with its vivid blues and resplendent greenery, in a timeless and grandiose atmosphere!

In Grenoble, the summer period is an opportunity to experience the descent of the Isère in a different way. During the five-kilometre canoe trip, the magic of nightfall is revealed by the torches placed on each boat. The lights of the town will accompany the canoeing as it sails along.

Worthy of a ski torchlight descent, this canoe torchlight descent reflects the mountains in the heart of a bustling city. From Ile Verte to Pont d'Oxford, this route, made original by its timetable, makes a perfect end to a mild summer's day, with the coolness of the river.

You'll pass under several of Grenoble's bridges, enjoy views of the Fort de la Bastille and the historic centre, and discover the city's night-time colours with a new eye.