Groin Canyon:
the cave adventure
In the Bugey, one of the most exotic canyons in the area. Caves, siphons, long swims in emerald water and jumps up to 12 m. A sporty, underground descent, one of a kind.
A descent between water and rock, like nowhere else
The Groin canyon lies in Artemare, in the Bugey massif (Ain), about an hour from Annecy. It is a very aquatic and spectacularly enclosed descent, renowned for its underground feel: you pass through caves, swim at length in emerald water, and cross siphons.
Its geological curiosity is unique: the Groin spring gushes from a cave located a kilometre upstream of the canyon. This pure, cool water gives the descent an unforgettable colour and atmosphere, between mineral and aquatic.
It is a sporty canyon (red grade), for people at ease in the water, from age 14. We run it as a private outing guided by a state-certified instructor, to experience this adventure in complete safety.
Caves, siphons and long swims
The Groin stands out for its cave passages: you move through galleries where the rock closes over the water, in a striking half-light. It is this underground dimension that makes the descent so singular.
The canyon has three siphons (passages where you briefly go under the rock) â only one is compulsory and requires putting your head underwater for less than 10 seconds, always secured by the guide. Add to that long swims, potholes and jumps up to 12 metres for the keenest.
An intense, complete experience: for those who love water, commitment and unusual atmospheres, the Groin is one of the most memorable canyons in the area.
(1 compulsory)
jump
upstream
Your outing, step by step
From welcome to return, here is how the descent goes.
Welcome & gear
The guide fits you with a wetsuit suited to cool water, helmet and harness, and details the route, the siphons and the safety rules.
Approach walk
An approach walk leads to the canyon entrance, in the wild setting of the Bugey.
Caves, siphons & swims
The descent alternates cave passages, long swims in emerald water, potholes, the compulsory siphon (supervised) and jumps up to 12 m. Every major obstacle has an alternative, except the main siphon.
Return & debrief
Exit the canyon and head back to the start. Gear is returned and the photos of this extraordinary descent are shared.
What's included (and what's not)
All technical gear and supervision are included in the private outing.
Included in the outing
- Wetsuit suited to cool water
- Certified helmet and harness
- Technical gear (ropes, descenders)
- Supervision by a state-certified guide
- Civil liability insurance
- Photos and videos of the outing
Not included (to bring)
- Swimwear (worn under the wetsuit)
- An old pair of trainers
- Towel and change of clothes
- Travel to the meeting point
- Tip for the guide (optional)
This outing is ideal if you are...
The Groin Canyon as a private outing adapts to your group and level.
Lover of rare atmospheres
Caves, siphons, half-light: the Groin offers a cave experience few canyons can match.
Water lover
Very aquatic, long swims, emerald water: if you love water, you will be served.
Seasoned athlete
Red grade, from age 14: for those wanting commitment and strong thrills.
Adventure seeker
An out-of-the-ordinary outing, to experience as a private group for a striking memory.
The Groin Canyon at a glance
The descent's key features so you can picture it.
Everything to know before you come
The logistics to prepare your outing.
đ Meeting point
The meeting point in the Bugey is confirmed when you book your private outing.
đ Access
- â 1 hour from Annecy
- Artemare, Valromey (Ain)
- Car-sharing possible depending on the group
đ Organisation
- â 3h30 descent
- Half-day outing
- Morning or afternoon
- By private booking
â ïž Requirements
- Minimum age 14
- Very at ease in water
- Good physical condition
- Willing to cross a siphon (head under <10 s)
A local, state-certified team
Since 1994 we have guided canyoning around Annecy and Savoie.
State-certified guides
CĂ©line, Ătienne and Vincent know every canyon in the area and adapt the outing to your group.
Safety first
Certified gear, checked landing pools, an alternative at every obstacle: your safety comes first.
Tailor-made outing
Date, level, group size: we build your private outing around your wishes.
Your questions about the Groin Canyon
Answers to the most common questions about this outing.
What is a siphon, is it dangerous?
Is the Groin canyon difficult?
Why is it called a cave canyon?
Is the water cold?
How do I book?
Discover our other descents
From family canyons to the sportiest, around Annecy and in Savoie.
Fancy descending the Groin Canyon?
This outing is run as a private group, guided by a state-certified instructor. Contact us to set your date and format.