Canoe Tour on the Ardèche: A classic choice for anyone vacationing with us in the Gard
Hardly any other excursion is as popular with us as a canoe trip on the Ardèche. The Gorges de l'Ardèche, with the famous Pont d'Arc—the natural rock arch spanning the river—are among the most beautiful canoe routes in France.
By the way, if you don't have a car or would rather take it easy, you can also hop on right here in town: More on that below.
Directions from the vacation home to Vallon Pont d’Arc
Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is the classic starting point for canoe trips on the Ardèche.
Distance: approx. 27 km
Travel time: about 33 minutes
Route: via Route de Saint-Ambroix and then on the D579
This makes the Ardèche one of the closest destinations in our area—it’s easily doable even as a half-day trip.
Which route is right for you?
Local providers offer trips of various lengths, so there's something for families with children as well as for serious paddlers:
5 km, "Mini Toboggans" (approx. 1.5 hours): a short route with four small, easy rapids, great for beginners and families
8 km, classic route to the Pont d'Arc (about 1.5 hours): the most popular route, which leads directly under the famous rock arch
13 km, "Maxi Mini" (approx. 2.5 hours): slightly more challenging, also with a view of the Pont d'Arc
24 km, "Découverte" (approx. 4.5 hours): continues into the Gorges Nature Reserve, with over 15 rapids
32 km, "Sporty Day" (approx. 6.5–7 hours): the entire gorge in one day, for experienced paddlers
Important to know: Some parts of the Gorges de l'Ardèche are accessible only on foot or by canoe; participants must be at least 7 years old and able to swim about 25 meters on their own.
Providers and Prices
One of the best-known and longest-established providers is Aigue Vive in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, which has been renting canoes and kayaks for the Ardèche river trip since 1987.
The price usually includes equipment and return transportation by bus to the starting point. In addition to Aigue Vive, there are several other certified providers in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc; you can find a list at the Office de Tourisme Gorges de l'Ardèche – Pont d'Arc. During peak season, it's a good idea to make a reservation a few days in advance.
Our tip for getting around without a car: Rent a canoe right in town
If you don't feel like driving or prefer a more leisurely pace, you don't have to go all the way to the Ardèche: Right here in Saint Ambroix, you can go to Cap Canoë to rent canoes and kayaks for the Cèze, the river that practically flows right past our town.
Season: April through October
Popular route: Saint-Victor to Malcap, about 4 km, 1–2 hours—ideal for families and beginners, with a swimming spot at Moulin du Roc Tombé
Longer route: Saint-Victor to Saint-Denis, about 8 km, 2–4 hours, passing by the Grand Rocher, where you can swim
To put it in perspective: The Cèze is much calmer than the Ardèche and is better suited for a relaxing afternoon than for a major canyoning adventure. On the other hand, you can jump right into the water right outside our door—no car or advance planning required.
Additionally, in case it rains
Anyone interested in the region's history can combine the trip with a visit to the Caverne du Pont-d'Arc , an elaborate replica of the world-famous Chauvet Cave with its millennia-old cave paintings. Opening hours and prices vary by season.
Practical Tips for a Canoe Trip
Water Level: When water levels are very low in midsummer, certain sections may be temporarily closed.
Sun protection: Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water; there’s hardly any shade on the river
Change of clothes: Don't forget to pack dry clothes for the car or your return trip.
Valuables: A waterproof container for smartphones and valuables is usually provided by the vendors
Whether it's the grand Ardèche Gorge with the Pont d'Arc or a leisurely trip down the Cèze right outside our door: for us, a canoe trip is one of those excursions that should be part of just about every visit.
