Conditions for canoeing down the Ardèche
To paddle down the Ardèche, you must be at least 7 years old, know how to swim, be able to fully immerse yourself (including your head), and be in good physical condition.
During the activity, wearing a life jacket (provided by us) is mandatory, as well as wearing closed-toe shoes.
Respect Nature – Be Eco-Responsible!
The Gorges de l'Ardèche are home to a rich and diverse ecosystem. Please respect the local wildlife and plant life, and make sure to leave no waste behind.
Equipment required for your canoe trip
To explore the Ardèche by canoe or kayak, wear clothing suitable for outdoor activities (shorts, t-shirt, swimsuit, closed-toe shoes, etc.).
Be mindful of the sun and prepare accordingly. We recommend wearing UV-protective clothing to reduce the need for sunscreen. Don’t forget a cap or hat and sunglasses.
If the weather is uncertain, bring a windbreaker/K-way and warm, dry spare clothes.
To avoid losing your glasses, use a retention strap.
For short descent packages, stay hydrated by bringing water.
For one-day trips, pack a picnic and plenty of water, as there are no restaurants or shops in the Gorges.
For multi-day trips, don’t forget your camping essentials: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, flashlight, and a change of clothes.
Let’s help preserve nature—bring trash bags for your waste.
To store your equipment during your descent
For the storage of your personal effects, we will provide you with watertight containers, but we cannot guarantee their perfect watertightness, this being subject to the way in which they are closed.
Consequently, we advise you to be careful with equipment that fears water.
Do not hesitate to take additional protection with you such as small plastic bags or even waterproof bags.
Timetables and access to RIVIERE and NATURE
Ready for an unforgettable canoe trip down the Ardèche?
When are we open?
In April, May, June and September, we are open 7 days a week from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm.
In July and August, we are open 7 days a week from 8 am to 8 pm.
To find us:
From Lyon: A7 exit Montélimar sud, N7 to Pierrelatte, D13 to Bourg-Saint-Andéol, then D4 to Vallon Pont d'Arc.
From Marseille: A7 exit Bollène, D994 to Pont-Saint-Esprit, N86 towards Vallon Pont d'Arc and take the road to the Ardèche gorges D290.
From Montpellier: A9 exit Nîmes Ouest, N106 towards Alès, D16 then D979 towards Barjac, D579 to Vallon Pont d'Arc.
GOOGLE MAPSThe bivouac areas in the nature reserve
The bivouac areas are designated zones within the nature reserve, where you can spend the night near the river.
At the Gaud and Gournier bivouacs, you will find essential facilities for your comfort: toilets, showers, barbecues with charcoal, picnic tables, trash bins, as well as guardians available in case of an emergency.
A few practical details before you depart:
-The use of stoves may be subject to restrictions depending on weather conditions.
-Don’t forget to bring trash bags for your waste.
-Alcohol is prohibited in the bivouac areas.
-Navigation in the gorges is prohibited after 8 PM.
-Bivouac reservations must be made directly by you.
For all multi-day descents:
BIVOUAC AND CANOE PACKAGE HERE
Link titleEquipment provided for your descent of the Ardèche
For your descent of the Ardèche, RIVIERE et NATURE offers you:
A wide choice of boats: Kayaks single / 2 or even 3 places (with a child in the middle) sit-on-top, unsinkable, self-bailing (Tarka, Balawika, Optimo, Taiki, Treck), Canoes 2 or 3 places (with a child in the middle) (Canadia / Inca, more traditional Old town’s).
A small, recent and well-maintained equipment: Buoyancy aids (CE certification) / Single or double paddles / Watertight containers (different sizes) / Helmets approved (equipment not mandatory).
Different transport vehicles: minibus / T.E.C. (Public Transport) / 4X4.
Link titleMore comfort for your descent of the Ardèche
To make your descent even more comfortable, you also have the possibility to rent additional equipment:
Neoprene wetsuit(included in the price at the very beginning of the season)
Waterproof windbreaker
Comfort backrest(for optimo double) for people with back pain /
Tent / Bivouac pack including tent, camping gaz, kitchen set, small ground mattress (carré’mat).
In case of bad weather
The VIGICRUES system keeps you informed about the water level of the Ardèche in real time. If the weather is confirmed to be bad and the river is not navigable, you could postpone the reservation, or cancel it and receive a full refund.
Can I bring my dog with me?
The Gorges de l'Ardèche Nature Reserve is prohibited for dogs in canoes. The 24, 30, 36 and 60km courses cannot be done with your dog.
For thedescents of 6, 8, 12 and 14km, dogs are allowed, only if able to swim and free on the boat. Your dog is under your full responsibility.