Summer is the perfect time to discover new outdoor activities and enjoy nature. Here are five mountain sports to try to stay fit and have fun. Memories and adrenaline rushes are guaranteed.
Don't abandon your body to just sunbathing and playing pétanque. Yes, both activities are great, but there are so many new adventures to be had. We can't stress it enough: there's nothing better than exercise to soothe your mind and stay in shape.
There's something for every taste and budget. Whether you're with friends, as a couple, or on your own, one of these sports is perfect for you.
Climbing
For several years now, rock climbing has been a revelation for many French people. And for good reason: the benefits of this sport for the body and mind are countless. Flexibility, strength, concentration, self-improvement, coordination, and more... Climbing engages all your muscles and boosts your self-confidence.This practice really comes into its own in summer. Due to the terrain, climbing sites can be shaded and located in beautiful locations. Once at the top of the route, you'll be amazed. In addition to the satisfaction you get from it, you'll also be left with unforgettable memories.
For the less adventurous, there is still the great via ferrata option to start gently.
Rafting
Looking for a thrill with friends or family? Rafting is for you. This sport is performed in "white water," in a river or torrent. It is practiced aboard a raft, an inflatable boat designed to remain stable in rapids. The goal is simple: go down the river without falling into the water. Don't worry, this extreme sport is not dangerous, and its highly supervised practice ensures your safety and the protection of natural areas. Accessible to all, provided you know how to swim.
Canyoning
It's the sport of choice. More refreshing than climbing, more unusual than rafting. Canyoning involves descending the bed of a steep river through gorges and waterfalls. To overcome obstacles, you jump, descend a natural slide, or rappel.
Always accompanied by a guide, this activity will take you on a journey of geological discovery. Fun and aquatic, there's something for all levels. The difficulty, commitment, and duration vary depending on the group and, therefore, the itinerary. The Cévennes National Park is full of exceptional canyons to explore. Of course, as with rafting, the only requirement is knowing how to swim.
Paragliding
Much more contemplative but just as sensational, paragliding is a sport to try at least once in your life. Feel free, fly like a bird with a good dose of adrenaline. From the first takeoff, this sport is a self-confidence booster. It's also a great way to combat stress. Once your feet leave solid ground, you're hooked.Your first flights will be with an instructor, but the learning curve is quick. Schools offer introductory courses starting at €450 for a 5-day immersion. This gives you time to learn the safety techniques for flying solo. So why not embark on a week's vacation in the mountains, with the ultimate reward of flying free above the world?
Hiking
Hiking has never been so trendy. In France, this activity is more than ever ideal for discovering our lands and heritage. It's hard not to find happiness while walking through one of our 11 national parks . There is something for all ages and all levels of difficulty. Of all the activities, this is probably the one that can provide the most freedom. With your friends or family, isolated in the middle of wide open spaces. A hike is a human and sporting adventure. Little tips for hikes lasting several days:- Be well prepared. You will find all the advice you need in this article .
- If you dream of sleeping under the stars or in a refuge to observe the sky, know that the Cévennes National Park is the largest international dark sky reserve in Europe.
On behalf of the entire OKR team, we wish you wonderful adventures!
