Long descent - 30 km

The Pont d’Arc and the Ardèche Gorges by canoe… Magical!

Prices long descent – 30 km (18.64 miles)
  Off-season High season
Adult 36 38
Child 7 to 14 years 23 25
Child 7 to 10 years in third seat 16 17

High season : July and August.

These costs include canoe or kayak hire, life jackets meeting the European standards, paddles, waterproof containers, neoprene tracksuits, windcheaters, directions and other information you might need, the trip back with a private bus, a cup of coffee before leaving, and some refreshment upon arrival.

Dear sporty friends… The long 30-km (18.64 miles) descent is just right for you!

(except for after rain showers, when the water level is too high!).


1 hour after your departure in Vallon, you will pass under the famous Pont d’Arc and then you will go through the nature reserve for 24 km (14.91 miles).
If you are lucky, you might get to see one of the protected species of the Ardèche Gorges, such as the Bonelli's eagle, the Egyptian vulture, the peregrine falcon, the European beaver. (this one mostly comes out at night though…).


In total, you will need around 6 hours and 30 minutes (without breaks) before you arrive at the landing stage of Sauze, where we will meet you again.

In the meantime, you will have plenty of time to admire the beauty of the Ardèche Gorges. You will pass several rapids including “le Charlemagne”, “la Dent Noir”, “la Toupine du Gournier”, and “la Pastière”.


If you wish to canoe with your children, we strongly advise you to opt for the 24-km (14.91 miles) nature reserve descent, which is less tiring!


As for the 30-km (18.64 miles) long descent, you will have to leave between 8 and 9 AM.
Naturally, the earlier you leave, the more time you will have to take some breaks and have a swim!

Gradual proceedings of your journey

 

To start your day well in the freshness of the morning, you will be offered a cup of coffee at the Castor-Canoë reception.


A piece of advice before you leave for this magnificent canoe descent on the Ardèche river: please keep in mind to bring your picnic and enough water as there are no restaurants or bars along the gorges!... Just you and the unspoilt nature!


Additionally, in order to make you feel assured about your belongings, we will provide you with a small waterproof container in which you can store your mobile phone, photo camera, keys, etc. This container can be stored in a larger 55-litre container (double security).


After the preparations, we will explain your canoe route with the aid of maps and pictures, e.g. from the rock “la Cathédrale”, you will have 2 hours of paddling left before you arrive, including a long straight line.
Additionally, we will give you some advice on how to steer your boat (canoe or kayak) and some important information about the security guidelines, e.g. the buoyancy aid jacket, which you will need to wear and will be provided before you start.

We would like to remind you that no access to the road is possible in the Ardèche Gorges nature reserve. So it is important that you adapt the route to everyone’s physical capacities.


However, if necessary, it will be possible to stop at the Gaud or the Gournier bivouac, where you will be able to refill your water bottles.


In order to finish the day well and out of respect for everyone, we ask you to arrive at the landing stage of Sauze between 4 and 5 PM. Thank you for respecting this schedule!



On the spot, a Castor-Canoë team member will collect the jackets, paddles, and boats and will give you instructions for the bus ride back to the base.
Although several shuttles buses will be available, filling the vehicles will take some take before they can leave. We will do our utmost to let you wait for as less time as possible. However, in case of delay, you will be shown a small open-air café, where you will be able to quench your thirst in all peace in the shadow. (very welcome after an entire day in the sun).


Your way back to Castor-Canoë will take around 45 min, but you will be rewarded with a cold drink. (rosé, squash, etc.) Being together and sharing your experiences will be beneficent for you after this journey.