Canyoning

canyoning in wales uk

Canyoning

Canyoning involves a wet slip, slide descent following the meandering line of a river, that has been eroded by the power of the water over many thousands of years.  There are many rock steps to negotiate and waterfalls to slide down,  pools to swim through as part of this fun and popular activity.  This activity can be done year round with many sheltered venues. 

It was all about getting wet from the word 'go'. We were soon sliding down the spectacular canyon.

"The jump and slide into the pool was great, really exciting"
Naomi Gregory

Sliding and Scrambling

Canyoning is all about being in the water and heading downhill. Some rock steps you may be able to slide, others will require down climbing. There are a choice of venues and routes to take and we will chose the best line so to suitably challenge the group and maximise the adventure. Each step down the canyon will be overseen by our instructors to ensure everyone stays safe.  The group will be encouraged to look after one another as they journey towards the end point. 

Sliding and Scrambling in north wales
canyon-river-wales uk

Swimming and Jumping

To increase having fun in the water there will be pools to swim and jump in.  We issue you with warm wetsuits so you can fully enjoy the water in the canyon. The deeper pools can be jumped in from various heights. Slides are created from the water eroding and smoothing the rock, dropping you into the water below.

There are waterfalls to go under and behind, some being up to 30m high. There are various water challenges for all groups as you descend to the bottom.

Zip Lines and Abseiling

For added adventure we can set up roped activities within the canyon as part of your journey. Abseiling or roped lowers are possible down the various cliffs that form the sides of the canyon. Across the steep sides we tension ropes so that you can slide across at height for that extra thrill. 

canyoning activity center in north wales
wales adventure activities

Learning Outcomes

For Outdoor Education Courses

  • Work as a team to over come challenges faced through out the journey.
  • Identify risks in a new environment and suggest ways to keep themselves and others safe.
  • Explain features of the river environment and suggest why they are there or formed in such a way.
  • Discuss how we can look after the environment and leave little trace of our visit.

Further in-depth tailor made courses could include:

  • Explain the processes working in the river environment.
  • Classify the unique flora and fauna present.

Activity Venues

The canyoning venues are very condition dependant, needing low water levels and warmer water temperatures, as the water can be fresh coming straight off the mountain side.

Our local canyon is great for a half day and has a slide, jump, roped clip line and zip line all within a short section.

Cwm Llan is a popular sliding and jumping canyon, in a great location below Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). 

Canyoning Courses

Canyoning forms part of our outdoor education courses at Arete, it is popular full day activity. Through the outdoor adventures, and residential stay, we incorporate a range of educational benefits for the pupils. Canyoning can also be part of geography field work, looking at river processes and erosional environments or focusing on the river ecology. 

Courses of all lengths available throughout the year. A dedicated and experienced instructor is allocated per group. They will tailor the outdoor education programme, that will be flexible to adjust to pupil progression and weather.

Costs: As an example, a 5 day fully catered course starts from just £235 per pupil for courses in November – February.

How to Book: Please email info@aretecentre.co.uk or use our contact form. Let us know the time of year, approximate size of course, year group and any aspirations or learning objectives you may have.

 See our Primary or Secondary section from more information on our outdoor education courses. We also have a general Teachers & Leaders Guide.

All of our activities, including canyoning, can be booked as a private session for any type of group. This can be a half day or full day activity. It is also possible to combine with one other activity for a full multi-activity day. Possible combinations include canyoning and canoeing, abseiling or rock climbing.

Costs: Regardless of activity combinations, £70 per person for a full day of activity, £50 per person for half day of activity.
Minimum payment of £280 for a full day or £200 for a half day of activity.

Discounts: For groups, every 10th person can attend for free. 10% discount for schools, colleges, scouts & guides, cadets and certain youth charities.

Ratios: We run our courses at low ratios of 1:11 or less to ensure your safety and maximum participation.

Included: Safety kit, wetsuit and / or waterproofs as necessary. Transport can also be provided if you are staying at Arete Outdoor Centre.

How to Book: Please email info@aretecentre.co.uk or use our contact form. Let us know your preferred date, approximate size of course, year group and any aspirations or learning objectives you may have.

More information: Please see our page on Adult Groups, Youth Groups or Family Activity.

We run Gold DofE Residential courses and Summer Camps during the holidays. Canyoning  can form a part of this 5 day multi-activity course. The accommodation is fully catered. You will meet like-minded individuals and have a great week of adventure.

2018 Dates: 9-13 April, 20-24 August, 27-31 August, 3-7 September.

Cost: £295 per person fully catered

How to Book: Please email info@aretecentre.co.uk or use our contact form. Let us know you preferred date.

More information: See our Gold Residential or Summer Camp page. Alternatively contact us if you have further questions.