The Les – Pont de Rei section
The main rafting run in the Aran Valley starts from the village of Les and ends at Pont de Rei, beside the French border. The 8 km descent follows the Garona through class II-III rapids: enough force to feel the river, paddle as a team and pass through fast sections, but without the technical demands of rivers like the Noguera Pallaresa.
The Garona here is a wide river with good flow from May to September. Rapids alternate with calmer stretches where the group can take in the views.
Family rafting with children
Rafting on the Garona is one of the most family-friendly adventure activities in the Pyrenees. Children from age 6 can join, accompanied by an adult in the same raft. The class II-III rapids deliver enough excitement for kids to feel the adventure without reaching levels that compromise safety.
The guide adjusts the pace to the group and makes sure younger participants are well positioned. Children's gear (wetsuit, life jacket, helmet) is provided in small sizes. Swimming ability is not required (life jackets are worn throughout), but it helps if the child is comfortable around water.
What is included
Full wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, paddle, certified professional guides (English, Spanish, Catalan and French), shuttle from the base in Les to the start point and back, free parking and accident and liability insurance.
You should bring: swimsuit, towel and shoes that can get wet.
The Garona river
The Garona (Garonne in French) rises at Pla de Beret (1,860 m) in the heart of the Aran Valley. It flows through the valley from east to west before crossing into France at Pont de Rei, continuing as the Garonne to the Atlantic at Bordeaux. In the Aran Valley, the river is fed by snowmelt from peaks above 3,000 m (Maladeta, Besiberri, Aneto), giving it strong flow from May to July that moderates in August and September.
Season and best time
The rafting season runs from April to October. May-June: highest water levels (snowmelt). July-August: moderate flow and warmer temperatures, the most comfortable period for families. September: fewer crowds and autumn colours.
How to get there
Meeting point at the activity base in Les (Aran Valley), 15 minutes from Vielha via the N-230. From Baqueira Beret, 25 minutes. From Barcelona, approximately 4 hours. From Toulouse, 2 hours via the A-64.
Frequently asked questions about rafting to the Vall d'Aran
From what age can children go rafting?
From 6 years old, accompanied by an adult in the same raft. The equipment (wetsuit, life jacket, helmet) includes children's sizes.
Is prior experience necessary?
No. The guide explains the basic paddling techniques and safety procedures on land before the descent. In 5 minutes, you'll have everything you need to enjoy the trip.
Is it necessary to know how to swim?
It's not mandatory. All participants wear life jackets throughout the trip. Being comfortable in the water helps, but it's not a technical requirement.
What section is covered?
The main section is Les – Pont de Rei (8 km on the Garonne River, Class II-III rapids). Other sections are available depending on the water level: Les Bordes – Bossòst (9 km, longer and with more intense sections).
How long does the activity last?
Approximately 2 hours in total: 30 minutes for equipment and explanation, 1 to 1.5 hours on the water, and 15 minutes for the return trip. What happens if it rains?
Light rain does not cancel the activity. It is only suspended if the river level rises to levels that compromise safety. In that case, a change of date will be offered.