Things to do in the Languedoc:   Watersports:   Canoeing and Kyacking.

The best place for this sort of activity is without doubt the River Aude, where national championships are often held.  The river Aude has its source in the the high Pyrenees and runs North to Carcassonne before turning East towards theMediterranean Sea.  In times past felled trees were floated down here.  The river is navigable for most of its length in various waters, from foaming white water for thrill-seekers or quiet waters for families. The upper reaches, around Quillan, are ideal for white water sports (canoeing, rafting, tubing, white water swimming, and canyoning)

Canoeing down the river Aude, in 6 sections (9 stages) over 170 km.  The stages are classed from I (safe and easy) to IV (dificult and potentially dangerous):
1 Bayra - Pierre Lys. 12 km, class III to IV.  The descent of the "Gorges de l'Aude".  Suitable for thrill seekers.
2 Pierre Lys - Couiza.  16 km, class II.  Sportive stage with rapids.
3 Couiza - Piège à Loup.  13 km, class II. A tranquil section passing through Alet-les-Bains.
4 Piège à Loup - Carcassonne.  33.5 km, class I to II.  Long section, in 2 stages with a stop at Pomas.
5 Carcassonne - Puichéric.  34 km, class I to II.  Quiet section.
6 Puichéric - Mer Méditéerranée.  61 km, class I to III.   3 day section in 3 stages.

Canoe-Cayak Club De Quillan, Quillan, Vallee de l'Aude, Jean Pascal DELMAS, route de Perpignan, 11500 QUILLAN