Itxassou / Pyrénées-Atlantiques / Nouvelle-Aquitaine / France open the map
Lakes and rivers
With the family

A paddleboard is a large inflatable board. Standing on your paddleboard (or stand-up paddleboard), discover the Nive, the Basque Country’s iconic river. An introduction to river paddleboarding: a 2½-hour taster session (including a briefing and the trip itself) in unspoilt natural surroundings. Come and give this trip in the great outdoors a go!

Packages

2½-hour river paddle descent

From30€
per person

Terms and conditions of the activity

  • Ages 12 and over
  • Must be able to swim
  • A pair of trainers is compulsory
  • Suitable for all ages, ideal for families and groups

How the activity works

1️⃣ Preparation and equipment

  • Location: base located in Itxassou on the River Nive, an iconic river in the Basque Country.
  • Equipment provided: river paddleboard, paddle, life jacket and wetsuit if required.
  • Requirements: you must be able to swim; minimum age 12 years.

 

2️⃣ Session programme

1. Briefing: safety instructions and basic techniques (balance, propulsion, turning) led by a qualified instructor.

2. Journey: transport to the starting point by shuttle bus or direct departure from the base, depending on the route.

3. Paddle (approx. 1h30):

  • Route: a mix of rapids (Class I–II) and calm stretches, exploring the lush green gorges of the River Nive.
  • Sightings: wildlife (herons, kingfishers) and local flora, with commentary from the guide.

 

3️⃣ Practical information

  • What to bring: swimming costume, towel; trainers compulsory.
  • On-site facilities: showers, changing rooms, picnic area and secure car park.

 

4️⃣ Educational commitment

  • Environmental focus: paddling in protected areas whilst raising awareness of the river ecosystem.
  • Supervision: an optimal guide-to-participant ratio to ensure personalised attention.

 

This activity combines accessible water sports with immersion in nature, making it ideal for discovering the Basque Country from a water-based perspective.

Good to know

  • Be over 12 years old
  • Be physically fit
  • Be able to swim
  • Trainers must be worn

 

Important notice to buyers: once the ticket has been purchased, it is the customer’s sole responsibility to contact the provider of the relevant activity to arrange a booking during opening hours.
RESASOL accepts no liability for the confirmation, amendment or cancellation of bookings, nor for the practical arrangements for accessing the activity. It is the customer’s responsibility to check directly with the provider regarding booking procedures, opening hours and any other conditions necessary for taking part in the activity.
By purchasing a ticket, the customer accepts these terms and conditions and acknowledges that they must take all necessary steps to confirm their booking with the service provider before the desired date of the activity.

 

 

🕗 OPENING HOURS

 

ACTIVITY AVAILABLE FROM 15/04/2026 TO 30/09/2026

📞 BOOKING REQUIRED 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE

If you do not receive an immediate response when you call, please leave a voicemail message stating your booking request and your contact details (surname, first name, telephone number and email address), and/or send an email to the contact address provided in the confirmation email you received when you made your booking, so that we can get back to you.

  • Open every day

Included in the offer

The pass/ticket purchased is valid for the year in which it was purchased, subject to the activity’s opening dates.

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Frequently asked questions
🏞️ Do you need to know how to paddleboard to go on a river?

No. River paddleboarding is suitable for beginners. After a brief introduction to the basic techniques and safety rules, anyone can learn to find their balance and enjoy a trip on the water.

🚸 Is river paddleboarding suitable for children?

Yes, river paddleboarding can be enjoyed as a family, depending on the conditions of the route and the children’s ages. The activity is carried out using appropriate safety equipment, including the wearing of a life jacket.

📅 When is the best time of year to go stand-up paddleboarding on a river?

The ideal time is generally from spring to autumn, when temperatures are more pleasant. Sailing conditions, water levels and the weather determine which routes are accessible.

⚖️ What’s the difference between paddleboarding at sea and paddleboarding on a river?

Paddleboarding on rivers offers a calmer experience and allows you to explore natural landscapes, wooded areas and unspoilt waterways. Paddleboarding at sea is more influenced by waves, wind and tides.

🦺 What kit do you need for a river paddleboarding trip?

We recommend that you wear suitable clothing for water activities: a swimsuit, clothes that can get wet, closed-toe shoes, sun cream and a bottle of water. The board, paddle and safety equipment are usually provided.

🧘 What’s it like to go paddleboarding on a river?

River paddleboarding offers a gentle activity that combines balance, relaxation and exploring nature. It’s the perfect way to take in the scenery, switch off and enjoy some quality time with friends or family.