Canoeing down the Gorges

A descent for all levels

Between Sampzon and Saint-Just d'Ardèche, many holidaymakers take to the water every year to paddle several kilometres in a canoe. For 6, 8, 12, 24 or even 32 km, the scenery flies by to the rhythm of the paddles.

The apprentice kayakers are taken to different departure points, depending on the organisation, and share the waters of the Ardèche for several hours each day. The length of the trip depends on the level of each participant and whether they prefer a more sporting or more leisurely pace... Tourists opting for the 12-kilometre descent generally allow 5 to 6 hours to make the most of the canyon's charms.

For the longer trips, of 24 or 32 kilometres, the boats are launched right into the heart of the Nature Reserve. This adventure generally takes two days, which means a night in a bivouac at one of the spots set aside for the occasion. Adventurers therefore need to have a minimum of experience, but this magical escapade is unforgettable to say the least!

Wonder along the water's edge

All along the route, one scenery follows another, offering budding kayakers a dazzling sporting and visual experience. Sand or pebble beaches, breathtaking cliffs, lush green natural spaces and translucent waters are revealed as the day progresses.

As well as the visual thrills, let's not forget that this ride is first and foremost a physical activity... so it's not unusual to get your fill of thrills too! Designed to take advantage of the river's natural features, slides (similar to toboggans) are installed at a number of points. These slippery passages are sometimes synonymous with falls, nothing dangerous, just an impromptu dip...

There are also more natural rapids to cross along the way, giving you a chance to test your steering and boat handling skills. It's sure to be a lot of fun with family and friends!

An adventure full of surprises

As the mood takes them, the adventurers stop off on the banks of the Ardèche, to enjoy the sumptuous scenery of this descent in a different way. For a swim, a picnic or a photo, the canoes are released on their sides and the small beaches are transformed into remarkable spots.

At each of the slides and at several rapids, photographers are waiting for tourists to take a photo of them in action. A great souvenir to have online at the end of the day! Here's a little tip: pack a picnic lunch to take with you in the canteens provided on the canoes, to enjoy in the sunshine with your feet in the water.

The highlight of the descent is crossing under the Pont d'Arc, a unique and impressive experience. This natural arch is crowded with tourists, who come to admire and photograph this symbol of the Ardèche.

From the canoes, the view is breathtaking and unique, rewarding the efforts made to discover it. Before or after passing under the bridge, stop off to the side for a swim between the kayakers, in a setting like no other in the world!

Before you set off down the Gorges in a canoe, make sure you've memorised all the swimming techniques you'll need for your adventure! Once you've put on your swimming costume, you'll need a good layer of sun cream. Don't forget to apply it several times during the day, as many holidaymakers skip this stage in the belief that they can escape the harsh Ardèche sun and its dangerous reflection on the water... A misconception!

For spectacle wearers, some companies provide strings to attach them to the lifejacket. For the more far-sighted, bring one with you, as it's easy to fall off... On boats, a water bottle can be attached and you can take a few things with you, but beware: it's not 100% waterproof. All that's left now is to embark on this mythical descent, which has plenty of surprises in store for everyone!