You thought that Aquatic sports were only for 'summer ? Take a look at all the possibilities you have to play sports in sea or in bright waters , even if it is a cold duck! Adventure activities are the best way to enjoy the calm offered by the hollow period and immerse yourself as close as possible to the wonderful landscapes of winter season .
Finding benefits in sport is an easy task. By combining aquatic sports with winter characteristics, positive points are multiplying! It is obvious that the water temperature is lower, but by adventing you in aquatic environment, you:
  • Considerably improve your blood circulation by stimulating it by cold.
  • Burn more calories , due to the supplement of energy spent by the body to maintain its internal temperature.
  • Release more endorphins and stimulate the parasympathetic system: the perfect recipe for relaxation and stress reduction.
  • Stimulate your immune system and increase your natural defenses in the face of seasonal viruses.

To help you navigate, we have selected the Top 4 best aquatic activities to do in France in winter:
1. Diving 2. Surf 3. Canyoning 4. The Paddle stand-up


diving


Exploring the aquatic immensity in winter is to discover this discipline in a whole new light. The underwater techniques that you may know are subject to a few modifications to adapt to the water temperature: if it is less easy, winter diving is much more breathtaking ! In winter, water is clearer , you have better visibility, and you can observe different species.

This is also an opportunity to explore new spots! Do you know the Ice Diving ? During this activity, an instructor leads you to Discovery of the bewitching landscapes of icy lakes: a show that you can only admire during this time of year. The Haut-Lieu of diving under ice in France is the Savoie and its many frozen lakes .

Ice diving in the lakes of Savoie

surfing


Forget the idyllic images of California and surfing in Malibu… The best waves meet out of season ! Not only are the beaches much less frequented, but the swoes are more regular, better trained and more conducive to long sessions. Even if adrenaline and the pleasure of surfing will make you forget the temperature, we recommend that you bring your most beautiful combination in neoprene to face the cold! Or even gloves and a hood for the most chilly.

The Atlantic Coast is ideal for sliding on the waves in winter. In particular, you will appreciate a wild session on the ribs of Brittany Basque coast .

Winter surf lessons in Hendaye

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canyoning


During snowfall on the summits, the streams and the torrents take care of clear water that opens the canyoning season! Beginner often from March, it has in store for you an invigorating activity, particularly useful for stimulating your blood circulation and recharging your batteries with nature.

We advise you to taste the rivers of Pyrénées-Atlantiques , Verdon , or ardèche to make the most of the thrills offered by canyoning! Find our activities now in the most spectacular canyons, everywhere in France

A natural slide in the Valentin gorges

the stand-up paddle
The winter season is ideal for enjoying the calm of the most popular spots and usually invaded by tourists! Some rental services are open all year round on Mediterranean coast . If you prefer country frames, you will find your happiness on the lakes of southern France , nestled in green writings.

You will appreciate the comfort of a combination to face temperatures and protect yourself from the cold in the event of a fall. Above all, don't forget your sunscreen ! Even if the winter sun is lower, between direct radiation and reverberation on the surface of the water, your skin deserves to be protected.

We often complain that the days shortened: conversely, if you opt for a session at the end of the day, you will be amazed by the sunset around six hours! What to add a touch of romanticism to all duet getaway .
As you can see, winter is the time of year when aquatic activities offer you as many tranquility as Invigorating sensations . In off-season, some of them are even more appreciable than when summer visitors point to their nose.