Roya — Gorges de Saorge (Fontan to Pont de Gémion)
Roya · Alpes-Maritimes (06), Alpes du Sud
Grade
V
Type
gorge · dam
About
Classe IV-V (X at l'Avaloir - fatal siphon, portage). Steep, sporty gorge run through the Saorge narrows: short, punchy high-grade rapids on continuous gradient, starting where the EDF plant at Fontan returns the captured upper-Roya water. The 'Avaloir' passage under a bridge at the gorge entrance (between the Pont de la Bendola and a railway bridge) is a siphon that has killed several paddlers - identify and portage it without fail. Storm Alex (2020) heavily damaged this valley too: re-scout and watch for debris. Turquoise water and Ligurian-alpine scenery. Season: High water April-June and November; in summer paddleable on morning EDF turbine releases between Fontan and Breil Gauge reference: EDF Fontan-Breil turbine release timing (late-morning water); Vigicrues 'La Roya à Breil-sur-Roya'
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