Which canoe trip should I choose in the Ardèche?

Canoeing down the Ardèche River is a must-do activity during a stay in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.

Every year, thousands of visitors come to discover the Ardèche River, paddling through spectacular scenery. From short trips accessible to all to longer descents in the nature reserve, there are several routes suitable for all levels.

So, which canoe trip should you choose in the Ardèche?
It all depends on the time you have, your skill level, and the type of experience you're looking for on the river.
Here's a short guide to the main routes available from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.

5 km Ardèche Canoe Trip

An easy trip ideal for families: this 5 km canoe trip is the most accessible route for discovering the Ardèche River.
It's located upstream from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc on a calm stretch of the river, mostly flat. This route features several weirs equipped with canoe slides, specially designed to allow canoes to navigate these obstacles easily and playfully. These small water slides are often a favorite with children.

Duration of the descent: approximately 1 to 1.5 hours
Ideal for:
• Families with children
• Beginners
• A short activity
• A gentle introduction to canoeing

Ardèche Canoe Trip 8 km

The must-do route with passage under the Pont d’Arc: the 8 km canoe trip is one of the most popular in the Ardèche. It allows you to discover the river while passing under the famous Pont d’Arc, a spectacular natural arch sculpted by the river.
Passing under the Pont d’Arc is a unique experience and one of the most well-known and photographed natural sites in the Ardèche.

The trip offers a good balance between paddling, swimming, and exploring the scenery.

Trip duration: approximately 2 to 3 hours
Ideal for:
• discovering the Pont d’Arc
• a half-day activity
• an outing with family or friends

13 km Canoe Trip on the Ardèche River

A full day on the river: this 13 km canoe trip allows you to fully enjoy a day on the Ardèche River.
The route begins approximately 5 km upstream from Vallon-Pont-d’Arc on a relatively calm stretch of the river.
This first section includes four weirs to navigate using canoe passes designed as natural slides.
These fun passages allow you to easily cross the weirs while adding a bit of excitement to the descent.

The route then passes under the Pont d’Arc, before reaching the first sections of the river's wild landscapes and the beginning of the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve.

Trip duration: approximately 3.5 to 5 hours
Ideal for:
• a day on the river with swimming
• enjoying the scenery and beaches
• discovering the Pont d’Arc by canoe

Ardèche Canoe Trip 24 km

The grand descent of the nature reserve in a single day: this 24 km canoe trip allows you to traverse the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve in one day.
This route is one of the most spectacular, as it allows you to paddle through the heart of impressive limestone cliffs and unspoiled wild landscapes, following in the footsteps of the Aurignacian people.
Throughout the trip, you can admire:
• the cliffs of the Ardèche Gorges
• the wild beaches
• the flora and fauna of the nature reserve
Descent duration: this complete descent generally lasts between 6 and 7 hours, including breaks.

Ideal for:
• a great day adventure
• discovering the Ardèche Gorges
• enjoying an immersive nature experience

Ardèche Canoe Trip (32 km)

Adventure with an overnight bivouac in the Gorges
For those who want an even more immersive experience, it's possible to complete the 32 km descent over two days with an overnight bivouac.
This adventure allows you to take the time to enjoy the exceptional landscapes of the Ardèche Gorges.
The night is spent at one of the two official bivouac sites located in the nature reserve:
• Gaud bivouac
• Gournier bivouac
These sites are equipped with restrooms, water points, and camping areas.
Sleeping in the Ardèche Gorges is a unique experience that allows you to enjoy the tranquility of nature and an exceptional starry sky.