The Programmes
This programme is quite flexible and includes bed and breakfast accommodation for 6 nights, along with the most spectacular experience of journeying through the Gorges de l'Ardeche by canoe or kayak with an expert English guide. Perfect for couples, families and groups who either want lots of free time or who want to create a bespoke programme of activities. Other activities can be added on request or can be decided upon when there.
Two days paddling are included within the price and will either be the same as depicted below in the Multi-Activity programme over any two days, or will consist of two days with an overnight bivouac depending on preference. Nothing tops of the experience of canoeing through the Nature Reserve quite like sleeping out under the stars, surrounded by sheer cliffs and the sounds of the Gorge. Don't worry though because, although basic, the bivvi site does have facilities such as toilets, showers, a BBQ site and a group tent (in case of bad weather). So you won't be completely roughing it! It also helps to split up the river into slightly less strenuous sections giving you the opportunity and time to better appreciate your surroundings at a more leisurely pace.
What's Included?
- 6 Nights B & B hotel accommodation 2*.
- All equipment and transfers provided for 2 days canoeing. (including waterproof barrel for the river).
- Small group size with tailored coaching from river guide over both days.
- Flights not included.
Only requirement is minimum age for the river is 7yrs old and ability to swim 25m
Multi-Activity Package Programme
| Included activities: | Two days Canoeing |
| Half-day Climbing | |
| Evening Horse ride | |
| Day Canyoning | |
| Half-day Caving |
This is a set programme option primarily for people who want to try new adventurous activities but within a friendly group setting. This 6 night option has been created to enable you to experience what we believe are some of the best activities on offer (in and around the Gorges) in a balanced programme. Perfect for Individuals, Couples and Small Groups of people who want to try these activities with other like-minded people.
Sunday
You will arrive at approximately 4pm French time at the hotel where you will be welcomed, allocated your room and then left to settle in. Once everyone has arrived we will escort you to see the famous Pont d'Arc which is only a few hundred yards away. You will have the opportunity to take some photos and to get a real sense of the beauty that surrounds you. We will then return to the hotel for the evening meal.
Monday
The day starts at about 9:30am and you will be taken into the local town of Vallon Pont d'Arc for a brief exploration before heading down to the river for an afternoon of Canoeing. A picnic lunch will be taken at the side of the river at a time and place suitable for the group. With the assistance of a British Canoe Union (BCU) Level 3 Coach you will learn how to control your canoe before heading down the first few rapids. This short trip is suitable for all abilities and culminates with paddling through the Pont d'Arc and finishing only a few hundred yards from the hotel. The evening is then yours to do with as you please.
Tuesday
Today starts with the morning spent Climbing at a local crag with a highly experienced English speaking instructor. The afternoon is free for you to explore the area; swim in the river; sunbathe; visit Places of interest or just rest and recharge. In the evening you will experience a tour of the area on Horseback providing you with a unique perspective. A great activity for seasoned riders and those who have never been in the saddle alike.
Wednesday
Halfway through the week we have a big day...Canyoning. Probably the fastest growing activity in the region and definitely one of the favourites! With the expert guidance of an amazing local English speaking instructor, you will travel up to the Cevennes Gorge where you will spend the day sliding, swimming and jumping your way down river! Although this is probably the most energetic activity, it is suitable for most. If you would rather, you can have the use of Bicycles for the day and take it at your own pace.
Thursday
With the morning left free for you to spend as you please (or recover from the night before!), you will have the opportunity in the afternoon to go Caving and explore a local "grotte"with an experienced guide. You might have been to see the spectacular tourist caves that are lit and have steps to allow access, or seen the Chauvet Cave exhibition. There are many such caves in the area, a number of which were used to live in. It is commonly believed that there are many more great discoveries waiting to be found and this is your chance to get an insight into the experience of those who made the original discoveries!
Friday
The first days Canoe trip through the Pont d'Arc was a great introduction but stops at the entrance to the Gorge. Today you get to paddle from where we finished on the first day, all the way through the Nature Reserve and get to experience the magnificence and beauty of the Gorge. This 24km journey consists of a number of rapids interspersed with tranquil flat sections and takes the whole day to complete. Again you will have the benefit of an experienced Level 3 Coach for the duration of the descent. The evening is left for you to spend as you please.
Saturday
Sorry, but this is your departure day. You will be expected to leave after breakfast and to clear the rooms by 10:30am.
What's Included?
- 6 Nights B &B Accommodation at 2* Hotel.
- All programmed activities.
- Small group size for individual attention. (6-12)
- 24h contactable rep.
- Flights not included
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Although the content and selection of activities will not alter, the order shown above is intended as an example and may be subject to change. - Please note that all activities contain inherent elements of risk with some requiring greater levels of fitness than others.The ability to swim 25m is required for all water based activities. All activities are run by an appropriately qualified instructor/guide. If you require any further information about any activity please contact us.
