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The Reserve of the Gorges de l'Ardèche by canoe, descente en canoë dans les Gorges de l'Ardèche
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24 kmThe Reserve of the Gorges de l'Ardèche by canoe

The wild day : 24 km in the heart of the Réserve Naturelle des Gorges, between dizzying cliffs, the Cathédrale and 8 rapids.

Moderate
~4h30
La Cathédrale
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A day in the heart of the Réserve Naturelle des Gorges

The 24 km trip takes you into the heart of the Réserve Naturelle des Gorges de l'Ardèche, the wildest and most spectacular part of the canyon. Setting off from Châmes, you enter the deep gorges right away : limestone cliffs of 150 metres, class II rapids, isolated beaches accessible only from the river. The highlight : the Cathédrale, an immense rocky cirque towering above you. This route is for those seeking raw nature, far from the busiest sections. A full day of immersion in one of Europe's most beautiful canyons.

The Cathédrale, 150 m of cliffs

The most spectacular rocky cirque of the Gorges, accessible only from the river.

In the heart of the Réserve Naturelle

The wildest section of the Gorges, with isolated beaches and untouched nature.

8 rapids including a class II

A progressive engagement for a day that is both physical and contemplative.

Return shuttle from Sauze

Canoe, life jackets, paddles, watertight barrel and shuttle back to the base.

Step by step

How the trip unfolds

  1. 1

    Departure from Châmes

    Welcome, safety briefing and launch into the gorges
  2. 2

    Dent Noire Rapid

    First rapid of the gorges, entry into the Gaud meander
  3. 3

    Bivouac de Gaud

    Wild beach a third of the way through, picnic break Accessible only from the river.
  4. 4

    Toupine de Gournier Rapid

    Powerful currents and whirlpools, the most committed of the route
  5. 5

    La Cathédrale

    Immense rocky cirque, the spectacle of the route
  6. 6

    Pastière Rapid

    Last technical rapid before exiting the gorges
  7. 7

    Arrival at Sauze

    Disembark at Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche and shuttle back
Practical info

Start and finish

Hours
Departure between 8.30am and 9.30am
Starting base
Viking Bateaux base — Châmes
Finish point
Sauze landing (Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche)
Return shuttle
Return shuttle included
Before you set off

What's included

Included in the price

  • Two-seater canoe (or single-seater on request)
  • Life jackets
  • Paddles
  • Watertight 30 L barrel
  • Full safety briefing
  • Return shuttle by minibus

What to bring

  • Swimsuit
  • Closed water shoes (no flip-flops)
  • Waterproof sunscreen
  • Water (1.5 L minimum per person)
  • Picnic mandatory (full day)
  • Hat or cap

Your itinerary

Your route on the map

  • Launch points
  • Landmarks
  • Bivouacs
  • Rapids
  • Villages
  • River
  • Active route

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to see the map

River Your route Launch points Monuments Bivouacs Rapids
Your questions

FAQ about the 24 km trip

1 Why doesn't this route pass under the Pont d'Arc?

The Pont d'Arc is upstream of Châmes, the starting point of the 24 km. This route begins where the Réserve Naturelle truly starts : the wildest part of the gorges. To combine the Pont d'Arc and the gorges, choose the 30 or 36 km.

2 What level is required for the 24 km trip?

A sporty level is recommended. Some rapids are committed and the day demands stamina (5 h of paddling). Prior canoeing experience is a plus, but not essential if you have good physical fitness.

3 Can you stop for swimming breaks along the route?

Yes, many pebble beaches dot the route. They are accessible only from the river, which gives them a wild and unspoilt feel. Allow time to enjoy them.

4 What time do you arrive at Sauze?

Setting off at 9am, you'll usually arrive between 3pm and 5pm depending on your pace and breaks. The return shuttle then takes you back to the base.

5 Do you need to bring your own picnic for the 24 km trip?

Yes, the picnic is essential for the day. There are no refreshment points along the route. Also plan at least 1.5 L of water per person.

Keep reading

Guides and tips for your trip

Guide

Which canoe route to choose in Ardèche?
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