This pastime is widespread in the Ardèche and, to a lesser degree, on the Alpine rivers, lakes and the Rhône. With many equipment and facility providers, and thanks to the natural locations, the region has a strong potential for canoeing and kayaking. It remains, however, a minority sport in the springtime (fast water) but a mass participation one during summertime.
The Ardèche Forges by Kayak
This magnificent nature reserve, only accessible on foot or by boat, provides visitors with unforgettable views. After the Pont d'Arc, a 60m high natural arch, the Ardèche descends into deep gorges, edged by 300m high cliffs and carving out meanders interspersed with many rapids. The river hugs the foot of the wild cliffs for 32km.
With a scattering of around thirty little rapids, class I or II, the descent will entertain you yet provide the opportunity to discover the surrounding wild flora and fauna. There is also the opportunity to stop on the numerous beaches which line the route.
Options range from the 8km mini-descent (90 minutes) to a 32km descent through the gorges over 1 or 2 days with a bivouac on designated bivouac sites. This journey is open to anyone from Easter until the end of October, the ability to swim is all that is required. Many companies offer kayak hire and arrange for you to return by bus.
Kayaking and Canoeing Tour
Sailing down the river Drôme by canoe or by kayak, by day or by night, is an adventure at the heart of nature. On board your small boat, you will sail down the river where you can leave your boat for a moment here and there to swim in the river.
The "Grande Randonnée" trip is a 50km journey over 2 days with a bivouac.
The night time version will enable you to discover the aquatic environment in a different guise: a magical moonlit sight, where the noises of the night take on a different aspect, where the trees, the rocks and the water dance around your little craft. Depatures from Saillans, between 11pm and 2am, over 6km, with certified instructors.
© RA Tourisme / JL. Rigaux
Kayaking on the Old Rhône
See the Old Rhone as never before by taking some of the numerous Lônes, former branches of the Rhône and a labyrinth of water and vegetation.
Family Canoe Trips on the Guiers River
The route was lengthened in 2006: you can now begin your descent of the Guiers by canoe at Pont de Beauvoisin and reach Saint Genix sur Guiers, either independently or accompanied. A fun and family-orientated journey between the sandstone rocks brought to life by crossing weirs and rapids.