Canyoning in the heart of the Diable canyon in the Hérault gorges
The aquatic hike in the canyons of St-Guilhem-Le-Désert is among the most peaceful and splendid of our routescanyoning in Hérault.
At the gates of Montpellier, just 25 minutes by car, between Ganges and Saint-Bauzille-De-Putois, the Diable canyon in Saint-Guilhem-Le-Désert is the ideal family route in Hérault.
Small canyon or canyon of initiation, we prefer here the term of aquatic excursion.
Jump, dive, swim, let yourself be guided, but above all laugh and enjoy!
The aquatic hike uses the same techniques as canyoning but consists of progressing in streams that are less tight and easier to access.
The course of the Diable canyon includes a zip line, abseils under waterfalls, passage under siphons but also many jumps of up to 10 meters, all avoidable for the less adventurous.
Details of your canyoning course in Saint-Guilhem-Le-Désert
Considerable for half a day for the short course, and for the full day with a picnic moment for a more in-depth exploration, this hike will allow you to spend an unforgettable moment with your family through an introduction to canyoning techniques in Saint-Guilhem-Le-Désert.
Upper part of the Devil's canyon
The upper part of the Devil's Canyon is the older of the two. Located downstream from Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert on the Hérault river, it was opened some 20 years ago.
Access / return conditions
Ideal for initiation with family or friends, the approach and return steps are almost nonexistent on this part of the canyon. Indeed, the starting point of the route is located just below the Brunan mill and the car park on the other side of the road, 2 minutes are enough for the launch !! It is the same for the return which will take place on the left bank in the shade of the oaks, about 5 minutes, before performing a last jump allowing to cross the river and conclude this discovery.
The advantages of the course
The Devil's Canyon is often appreciated for the multitude of jumps it offers. The depth of the Hérault river makes it possible to multiply the promontories favorable to this.
It is also very popular for its passage under the “umbrella” waterfalls, waterfalls with crystal clear waters and verdant walls.
Finally the abseiling workshops or other zip line and siphon complete the range of activities offered by this canyon to the delight of these practitioners.
Lower part of the Devil's canyon
Open due to restrictions and enthusiasm linked to the practice, it was created in 2017. It is also located downstream from Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert on the Hérault river.
Access / return conditions
Like its big sister in the upper part, a short walk of 5 minutes allows us to easily reach the start of the course of the Diable canyon.
Slightly steeper on the last few meters but a little warm-up is not superfluous for this kind of activity.
The return to dryness will be of the same duration (5 minutes), just long enough to discuss with the guide or the rest of the group the dizzying final abseiling.
The advantages of the course
Its geographical position gives the Devil's canyon (upper and lower part) one of its main qualities: the water temperature is pleasant.
In fact, unlike other routes where the water temperature can be around 5 ° C, that of the devil’s canyon is welcoming and makes it possible to appreciate the descent even more.
Many rope workshops (zip line, abseiling, etc.) and other jumps are also part of the descent. They will allow you to discover with pleasure the joys of canyoning!
To conclude, I would say that the Diable canyon (upper part or lower part) is ideally suited to exploring canyoning with family or friends. The diversity of crossings present on these routes make them complete and fun discoveries.
How to get to the Devil's Canyon?
Recommended routes
Meet with your personal vehicle in the parking lot near the Grotte de Clamouse.
By car :
- From Montpellier: Take the A750 towards Millau then take the junction at exit 59 “Gignac". Follow Gignac then Aniane.
- From Millau: Take the A75 then the A750 towards Montpellier. Exit at exit 58 “Gignac". At the roundabout take the first right towards Lagamas. Once in Lagamas follow Saint-Jean-de-Fos / Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert.
Pour les coordonnées GPS : Route de Saint-Guilhem-Le-Désert, 34150 Saint-Jean-de-Fos.
After the Pont du Diable in Saint-Guilhem-Le-Désert at the time agreed when you made your reservation. One of our Alteo monitors will be waiting for you on site with the necessary equipment.
Travel time: 40 minutes from Montpellier. 1 hour from Bédarieux, Béziers, Cap d'Agde. Close to Saint-Guilhem le Désert. By public transport: From Montpellier: bus line 308 from Hérault Transport with stop in front of the cave.
By public transport:
From Montpellier: bus line 308 from Hérault Transport with stop in front of the cave.
Material provided by Alteo Nature
Standards and controlled equipment
5 mm neoprene wetsuit
Harness
Carabiners
Lanyards
Helmets
Personal equipment necessary for the aquatic hike of Saint Guilhem le Désert:
Lace-up sneakers (3 euros rental possible if you don't have one)
Swimsuit
Towel
Water
Our articles on the canyoning routes in Saint-Guilhem-Le-Désert