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Our canoe and kayak routes in Ardèche

Our canoe and kayak routes in Ardèche

7 trips from the Pont d'Arc to the Gorges, from age 7, over 1 or 2 days

Our canoe routes

7 canoe routes in Ardèche, from the Pont d'Arc to the Gorges

Viking Bateaux offers 7 canoe and kayak trips in Ardèche, leaving from our base in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc. From the 6 km Mini half-day to discover the Pont d'Arc with the family, up to the Full Run 36 km to paddle through all the Gorges in a single day, or the 2-day bivouac deep in the Nature Reserve.

Every route is open from age 7 (must swim 25 m). Preferential online rates up to -20 %, safety briefing before departure and return shuttle included.

Compare the routes

Comparison of all 7 routes

Route Distance Duration Level Highlights Online price
Mini Trip
6 km
6 km ~1h30 Easy The Pont d'Arc 3 rapids 25 € View →
Midi Trip
12 km
12 km ~3h Easy The Pont d'Arc Canoe slides 5 rapids 34 € View →
The Reserve
24 km
24 km ~5h Moderate 8 rapids 37 € View →
The Sporty
30 km
30 km ~6h Sporty The Pont d'Arc 10 rapids 37 € View →
The Full Run
36 km
36 km ~7h Expert The Pont d'Arc Canoe slides 12 rapids 40 € View →
Nature Bivouac
30 km
30 km 2 days Moderate The Pont d'Arc 10 rapids 59 € View →
Adventure Bivouac
36 km
36 km 2 days Sporty The Pont d'Arc Canoe slides 12 rapids 63 € View →

Adult online rates (up to -20 % vs counter). Kids and group rates available on the rates page.

For a half-day

Ideal with family or to get started

A little under 2 or 3 hours on the water, no technical rapids. Perfect for a first trip with kids, or to combine with another activity during the day.

For a full day

Deep in the Gorges de l'Ardèche

5 to 7 hours on the water, through the most spectacular part of the Gorges: Cathédrale, class I-II rapids, pebble beaches reachable only from the river. For paddlers who want to see the essentials.

For two days with overnight

A night in the Gorges, the ultimate adventure

The bivouac option splits the trip over 2 days with an overnight stay at Gaud or Gournier, deep in the Nature Reserve. The bivouac pass must be booked separately with the Ardèche Gorges Tourist Office. See our full bivouac guide →

Unsure yet?

Which canoe route should you choose?

3 profiles, 3 direct recommendations. To go further, see our interactive map or give us a call.

Family with children

First time, kids aged 7-12, you want to enjoy without pressure. → Mini 6 km or Midi Trip 12 km (with canoe slides). See our family page.

Athletes looking for a challenge

Fit adults or teens, you want to see all of the Gorges. → Full Run 36 km in one day, or 30 km Sporty if you want less time pressure.

Looking for an escape

Couples, groups of friends, you want the full experience with a night under the stars. → Nature Bivouac 30 km or Adventure 36 km depending on your level.

Your questions

Frequently asked questions about our routes

1 Do all routes start from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc?

Yes. All our routes start from our base in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, on the Route des Gorges. Depending on the route, the arrival point is Châmes (6, 12 or 24 km), Sauze (30 km, 30 km bivouac) or Saint-Martin (36 km, 36 km bivouac). The return shuttle is included in every rate.

2 Which route is best for a first time?

The Mini 6 km is perfect for discovering canoeing without pressure. No technical rapids, passing under the Pont d'Arc, reasonable time on the water (~1h30). If you want a bit more adventure from the start, the 12 km adds the smooth-concrete canoe slides.

3 What is the difference between the 30 km and the 36 km Full Run?

The 30 km Sporty does not include the canoe slides (it starts slightly downstream). The Full Run 36 km adds the Pont d'Arc + canoe slides + arrival at Saint-Martin to cross the entire Gorges. It is our most complete one-day route.

4 Can I do a route in a single-seater kayak?

Yes, on every route, from age 14 with parental consent. Single-seater kayaks are more demanding technically. Our team will guide you at the briefing based on your level and preferences.

5 From what age can you take part?

Minimum age: 7, it's a local regulation (no exceptions). Your child must be able to swim 25 m and accept being in the water. On the 6 km, most of the paddling can be done by the parents if the child gets tired.

6 Do the online rates apply to every route?

Yes. Booking online through the "Booking" button at the top of the site gives access to a preferential online rate (up to -20 % on some headline routes). See the full details on the rates page.