Top spots for canoeing and kayaking in France: 4 must-see destinations
Top spots for canoeing and kayaking in France: 4 must-see destinations
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If you're thinking about where to kayak in France, the Ardèche and Verdon gorges are likely top of mind. But you can also paddle at your own pace through stunning landscapes and past historic sites off the beaten path. Loire, Ardèche, Périgord, Tarn: explore France and its regions from the water...
The Ardèche gorges: Paddle into the heart of nature and prehistory
Over in Vallon Pont-d’Arc, within a breathtaking 2,000-hectare nature reserve, the wild waters of the Ardèche gorges wind through towering cliffs and rock formations sculpted by time. Kayaking here offers a mix of peaceful moments and thrilling challenges, ending under the iconic Pont d’Arc.
But there’s more to the Ardèche than its spectacular views. The Chauvet 2 cave, a prehistoric gem and UNESCO World Heritage site, features artwork dating back 36,000 years!
If this visit ignites a passion for caving, explore the Ardèche’s network of caves and their fascinating geological wonders.
In between adventures, immerse yourself in the charm of the region’s picturesque villages, where medieval architecture meets the finest Ardèche cuisine. Enjoy some goat cheese, artisanal charcuterie, and local wines (in moderation) at the markets of Balazuc…
Canoeing down the Loire River
The Loire, one of Europe’s last wild rivers, is best explored by canoe or kayak. As you paddle along, you’ll pass the famous châteaux of Blois, Amboise, Nevers, Angers and Saumur. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife along the riverbanks. From Saint Mathurin sur Loire you can even join a bird-watching cruise guided by an expert who will point out majestic herons and diving cormorants.
Between paddling adventures, a stop at Château de Cheverny is a must. This castle, which inspired Hergé’s Moulinsart, features a wonderful permanent interactive exhibition that brings Tintin’s adventures to life for children.
As you meander along the country roads that hug the Loire’s banks, you’ll encounter the mysterious troglodyte houses. In Turquant, their rock-carved facades offer a truly unique sight.
The Périgord rivers: a kayaker’s paradise
With its many rivers and varied landscapes packed into a small area, Périgord is a kayaker’s dream! On the Vézère river, in the aptly named Vallée de l’Homme [Valley of Man], you’ll paddle through wild cliffs and world-renowned prehistoric sites, with the famous Lascaux Cave just a few kilometers away.
Kayaking down the Dordogne offers a unique view of its stunning châteaux.
Notable ones include Beynac, perched on a cliff; Castelnaud, with its military exhibits; and Milandes, once the home of Josephine Baker.
For experienced kayakers, the Céou River is a gem. This small, wild river with clear waters promises an exhilarating ride.
After your river adventures, head to nearby Sarlat, where the market is a feast for the senses with the scents of foie gras, duck confit, truffles, and other local delights!
The Tarn gorges: a canoeing and kayaking gem in France
Start your adventure from Sainte-Énimie or Saint Chély and paddle through the stunning Tarn gorges at your own pace, navigating between towering cliffs and wild twists and turns. With routes for all skill levels, you’ll kayak past the famous Straits—with their impressive 500-meter-high walls—and the Cirque des Baumes. For those seeking a deeper dive into the wild magic of the Tarn gorges many agencies offer two-day or longer trips.
The most breathtaking views of the Causses can also be reached by car.
From Point Sublime to Roc des Hourtous and Saltadou, each stop offers spectacular vistas of the waterways you’ve just explored.
Extend your adventure with a family outing in the Causses. Spend a relaxing day at a local farm, enjoying regional delicacies while the kids have fun with the animals. Wrap up your trip at Le Vallon du Villaret park, where children can explore physics and the arts in a naturally enchanting setting.
Feel like getting away from it all?
See our suggestions for novel trips and must-see places to visit near your home or holiday destination.