Unmissables
Stand-up paddle: 12 dream spots in the mountains
Stand-up paddling, or SUP, is a gentle, soothing water activity that can be enjoyed in the mountains, in the heart of breathtaking scenery. All you need is a board and a paddle, and you’ll be sailing along in a picture-postcard setting! We’ve found 12 heavenly spots in the mountains for you!
Just imagine…
Green mountains overlooking a pocket of lagoon-coloured water. Absolute calm, interrupted only by birdsong and the gentle lapping of the water beneath your feet. An aquatic ride where you move around in complete peace and quiet, using a paddle on a stabilised board. That’s the stand-up paddle effect! So where can you find the perfect spot? Right here!
#1 – Peyragudes
From the tree-covered peaks to the colour of the water, this fascinating array of verdant colours might suggest a little piece of Canada. And yet here we are, in the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées, on Lake Genos. Grab your paddle and let yourself drift along in complete tranquillity!
#2 – Serre-Chevalier
If, like our adventurers La Baze and Mon Copain Ray, you love the mountains, away from it all, then you’ll love a little paddle outing in the great outdoors at the end of your day’s hiking. Here in Serre-Chevalier, just before spending the night in a bivouac.
#3 – Les Angles
In the Pyrénées-Orientales, the Lac de Matemale at Les Angles is the perfect spot for a paddle. Situated on a vast plateau at an altitude of 1600m, it offers spectacular views of the peaks, and in summer offers a range of water-based activities, including stand-up paddling. Worth a try!
#4 – La Plagne
The Centron leisure centre offers you the chance to try out stand-up paddling under the guidance of certified instructors. Once you’ve mastered the balance and gliding sensations, admire the beauty of the surrounding peaks or, for even more fun, try your hand at sand-up polo!
#5 – Les Orres
Turquoise water reflecting the Alps, 80km of beach and a plethora of water sports activities to enjoy in summer: it’s impossible not to fall under the spell of Lac de Serre-Ponçon. Stand-up paddling is particularly magical in the morning, when the sun’s rays add a heavenly dimension to this emerald setting.
#6 – La Clusaz
As part of the La Clusaz Yoga Festival, from 19 to 21 July, combine stand-up paddle and yoga postures! It’s the perfect opportunity to work on balance and relaxation, in an enchanting setting on the Beauregard plateau.
#7 – Tignes
The Haute-Tarentaise resort offers stand-up paddle lessons from its water sports base. Here, the steep, green mountains contrast with the turquoise waters of the lake, while in the background, the white glaciers enhance this picture-postcard setting.
#8 – Gérardmer
On the Vosges side, it’s on the majestic Gérardmer lake that you can enjoy a peaceful stroll with your board. As you move away from the banks on the town side, you’ll enjoy a 360° view of the dense forest surrounding the lake. If you look up, you’ll see the ski resort overlooking the lake, at an altitude of 675m.
