Whether you’re a nature lover or adventure seeker, paddle through the protected nature reserve of the Ardèche Gorges for unforgettable memories!
You’ll be amazed by this wild landscape, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that rise more than 250 meters, shaped by centuries of wind and rain.

🕐 Plan for about 5 hours of paddling through this breathtaking canyon.

🚐 Departures are between 8:00 and 9:00 am, but we highly recommend an early start to make the most of your day.

🗓️ Step-by-Step – Your Day with Castor Canoë

☕ Upon arrival at our Vallon-Pont-d’Arc base, you’ll be welcomed with a complimentary coffee to start the day right.

🧳 Prepare your belongings by storing them in a waterproof barrel.
👉 Important: bring enough food and water, as there are no bars, shops, or restaurants in the nature reserve!

📱 For extra protection and comfort, we’ll provide you with a small waterproof container for valuables (phone, keys, etc.), which will be stored inside a larger barrel for double waterproofing.

🗺️ Once you’re ready, a member of the Castor Canoë team will brief you on the route.
Using maps and photos, we’ll point out the key features and give tips on how to approach the main rapids, such as:

• La Dent Noire

• La Toupine du Gournier

• La Pastière

These spots will also help you estimate your remaining time during the trip.

Before departure, you’ll also get a short lesson on canoe handling and essential safety instructions.
🦺 We’ll provide a certified buoyancy aid, adapted to your weight.

🚐 Departure

You’ll be transported by van to the Chames hamlet, just after the Pont d’Arc.
From there, you’ll enter the Nature Reserve within minutes.

⚠️ Reminder: There is no road access inside the reserve, so it’s important to pace yourself based on your physical ability.

🕔 We ask that you arrive at the Sauze landing point between 4:00 and 5:00 pm.

🙏 Please respect this schedule for the comfort of everyone.

🛶 At the Finish Line

At the Sauze arrival point, a team member will collect your vest, paddle, and canoe/kayak, and explain how to return to base.

🚌 Multiple shuttle vans are available.
Each van leaves once it reaches minimum capacity, but our team does everything possible to reduce your wait.

🍹 If there’s a short wait, we’ll direct you to a nearby refreshment spot where you can relax in the shade — much appreciated after a full day in the sun!

🚐 The return journey to Castor Canoë in Vallon-Pont-d’Arc takes about 45 minutes.

And to wrap up the experience, we’ll offer you a refreshing drink (rosé, syrup, etc.) and take a moment to chat about your day in the Ardèche Gorges!