Family Canoe/Kayak Trip in Ardèche, about 3 hours, 12 km

Family Canoe/Kayak Trip in Ardèche: An Exciting 3-Hour Adventure for the Whole Family

The Family Canoe/Kayak Trip in Ardèche offers a perfect mix of gentle paddling, thrilling rapids, and eye-catching scenery. This 3-hour excursion covers approximately 12 km along the Ardèche River, starting at the Plaine des Mazes and concluding at Châmes. The tour is carefully designed with family-friendly features, including three slides, three rapids, and a passage under the Pont d’Arc, making it a memorable introduction to canoeing and kayaking.

With departures every hour from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., flexibility is built into the schedule. The small, friendly organization ensures a warm, personalized experience, with guides who prioritize safety and fun. Suitable for children over 7 years old who know how to swim, this trip is an excellent choice for families seeking an active, scenic outing that combines adventure with relaxation.

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Key Points

• Family-friendly, suitable for children over 7 who know how to swim
• 3 hours of paddling over 12 km of the Ardèche River
• Includes 3 slides, 3 rapids, and a passage under the Pont d’Arc
• Flexible schedule with hourly departures from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Start at Plaine des Mazes and finish at Châmes, with options to relax or swim
• Small organization ensures attentive guidance and safety

Starting Point: Alain Bateaux Pier in Salavas

The adventure begins at the Embarcadère Alain Bateaux located in Salavas. The meeting spot is easy to find, marked by blue and white signs, and features a large shaded free car park. The address is La Bouchette, 07150 SALAVAS, with GPS coordinates 44.3944, 4.3877. The parking area is shaded by acacia trees, providing a comfortable space for gear preparation before the trip.

The Calm First Stage at Plaine des Mazes

The trip starts with a gentle section at the Plaine des Mazes, where three slides are located. This initial calm stretch helps paddlers get accustomed to steering and paddling at their own pace. The tranquil beginning appeals especially to beginners and families, offering time to orient themselves before encountering more dynamic segments.

The Excitement of the Second Part: Rapids and Passage Under the Pont d’Arc

After about an hour, the journey shifts to the second part of the trip, marked by the notable Charlemagne rapids. This section features three rapids, providing just enough excitement without being overwhelming. The highlight is the passage under the Pont d’Arc, a natural stone arch that creates a stunning backdrop for photos and memorable moments.

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Flexibility for Relaxing, Swimming, or Snacking

One of the key strengths of this tour is the flexible schedule. During the stop at Châmes, participants can take their time to relax, swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic by the water. The tour’s departures and returns are hourly, so families can choose a time that fits their plans, making the experience adaptable for different paces and energy levels.

Transportation and Itinerary Breakdown

The trip begins at the Alain Bateaux launching point and includes a 20-minute bus/coach transfer to the start of the canoeing section in Vallon-Pont-d’Arc. The canoeing segment lasts approximately 2.5 hours, covering the main stretch of the river, before returning to the starting point. This organized transfer simplifies logistics and keeps the focus on enjoying the scenery.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility if plans change unexpectedly. Booking is simple, with the option to reserve now and pay later, which helps keep travel arrangements flexible. The activity lasts around 3 hours, with specific starting times available based on availability.

What to Bring and Safety Considerations

Participants are advised to bring closed-toe shoes, essential for safety and comfort. The tour requires guests to be over 7 years old and able to swim, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience safely. The guides are known for their clear instructions and safety focus, making it suitable even for first-time paddlers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out for Families

This trip is particularly appealing for families looking for a safe, engaging outdoor activity. The small organization promotes a more personalized experience, and the guides’ friendly approach ensures everyone feels well taken care of. The scenic route, with the Pont d’Arc and waterfalls, delivers impressive views and a sense of adventure without excessive difficulty.

Reviews and Feedback Highlights

With a rating of 4.9 based on 82 reviews, this tour consistently receives praise for its organization, friendly staff, and beautiful scenery. Reviewers highlight the helpful instructions, safe equipment, and joyful atmosphere. Many mention the flexibility and warm welcome from the team, making it clear this is a well-managed activity.

The Sum Up: An Ideal Family Introduction to Canoeing in Ardèche

The Family Canoe/Kayak Trip in Ardèche offers a well-balanced mix of gentle paddling, exciting rapids, and scenic highlights suitable for children over 7. The 3-hour duration and flexible schedule make it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. The small organization ensures attentive guidance, while the impressive natural features like the Pont d’Arc add to the appeal.

This tour is especially suitable for families wanting to try canoeing in a safe environment while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Whether seeking a relaxed outing or a fun adventure with a splash of excitement, this trip delivers a memorable experience without overwhelming beginners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children must be over 7 years old and know how to swim.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, including transfer, paddling, and relaxing stops.

What is included in the activity?
Participants enjoy paddling along the Ardèche River, passing three slides, navigating three rapids, and crossing under the Pont d’Arc.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring closed-toe shoes for safety. No other equipment is specified as needed, as guides provide instructions and equipment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refund is available when canceling up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the trip physically demanding?
The trip is designed to be accessible for families and includes calm sections, with some excitement during rapids. Basic swimming ability and a reasonable level of mobility are required.

Where do we meet for the tour?
At the Alain Bateaux pier in Salavas, marked by blue and white signs. The address is La Bouchette, 07150 SALAVAS.

What is the main highlight of this adventure?
The passage under the Pont d’Arc combined with the slides and rapids makes for a scenic and fun-filled outing suitable for novices and families alike.

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