54 metres high, 60 metres wide: the iconic passage of every descent in Ardèche
The Pont d'Arc is a natural arch 54 metres high and 60 metres wide, carved by the erosion of the Ardèche river through limestone over millions of years. Classified as a Grand Site de France, it is the emblem of the Gorges de l'Ardèche and the most photographed passage of any canoe or kayak descent.
Located just outside Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, the Pont d'Arc marks the entrance to the Réserve Naturelle des Gorges de l'Ardèche. It also lies right next to the Grotte Chauvet 2 (UNESCO World Heritage), a replica of the oldest decorated cave known in the world (36,000 years old).
After a few minutes of calm paddling from the Vallon-Pont-d'Arc launch point, the arch gradually appears as you round a bend. The current carries you gently towards the opening. No rapid before the passage: it is a moment accessible to everyone, including beginners and families with children from age 7.
As you pass under the Pont d'Arc, the temperature drops a few degrees, the echo of the water changes, and the light shifts. The 54 metres of rock above your head create the impression of a natural cathedral. The passage lasts 30 to 40 seconds depending on the current. A suspended moment you will not forget.
The best angle to photograph the Pont d'Arc from your canoe: facing the arch as you arrive, with the low-angle morning light (departure before 11am). In the afternoon, the light comes from behind the arch and creates a dramatic backlight. Bring a waterproof pouch for your phone, available at our base.
| Route | Distance | Duration | Level | Online price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Trip | 6 km | ~1h30 | Easy | 25 € | View → |
| Midi Trip | 12 km | ~3h | Easy | 34 € | View → |
| The Sporty | 30 km | ~6h | Sporty | 37 € | View → |
| The Full Run | 36 km | ~7h | Expert | 40 € | View → |
| Nature Bivouac | 30 km | 2 days | Moderate | 59 € | View → |
| Adventure Bivouac | 36 km | 2 days | Sporty | 63 € | View → |
The Mini Trip 6 km (1h30) is ideal to enjoy the passage. For the Gorges, go for the 30 km or The Full Run.
In the morning before 11am for the low-angle light on the arch (ideal for photos). In the afternoon for the dramatic backlight and the turquoise water in summer. In peak season (July-August), the first departure (9am-10am) guarantees a quieter passage.
From May to September. In June and September, visitor numbers are low and conditions are excellent. In July-August, the water is warmer (22-26 °C) but the site is very busy, set off early.
Waterproof phone pouch (available at the base), waterproof sun cream, a hat with a strap, closed water shoes. A 30 L waterproof barrel is provided with each boat for your belongings.
The Grotte Chauvet 2 (UNESCO replica, 15 min from the base), the Pont d'Arc beaches upstream (free swimming), and the Pont d'Arc belvedere (plunging view of the arch, 10 min on foot).
Yes. The passage under the Pont d'Arc is calm and has no rapid. It is accessible to everyone, including children from age 7 and people who have never canoed before. You receive a briefing before departure.
The 6 km Mini Trip. Departure from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, passage under the Pont d'Arc, 3 fun rapids, arrival at Châmes. About 1h30 on the water, ideal for families.
Yes. Two pebble beaches lie on either side of the arch. In summer, they are open for swimming but very busy. From your canoe, you can stop for a break just after passing through.
No. There is no rapid under the arch. The current is steady and the depth is sufficient. With a life jacket (provided), the passage is perfectly safe for the whole family.
Yes, from the beaches below (free access, paid parking in summer) or from the belvedere above (10 min walk). But the canoe passage offers a unique perspective, right at water level under the arch.
In the morning before 11am for the ideal light and fewer people. In July and August, the first departure (9am-10am) guarantees a quieter passage under the Pont d'Arc before the crowds.
