🛶 Canoe-kayak rental on the Chassezac (Berrias and Casteljau, Les Vans)

Les Vans / Berrias-et-Casteljau – Casteljau sector (Mazet, Chaulet)

The Chassezac , the main tributary of the Ardèche , unfolds splendid limestone gorges in the heart of the Bois de Païolive .

We paddle between La Molette (Les Vans) for the launch and Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau) for the arrivals ( Mazet – 7 km, Plage du Chaulet – 10 km). Clear water, pebble beaches, natural atmosphere: the perfect half-day . ☀️

🛶 Canoe-kayak rental on the Chassezac (Berrias and Casteljau, Les Vans)

Why choose Chassezac 💡

• Photogenic & wild : cliffs, slabs, clear pools, Païolive forest.

• Short formats (7 or 10 km) easy to fit into half a day .

• Often more peaceful than the great Ardèche in the middle of summer.

Where do we paddle (exact landmarks) 📍

• Launch : La Molette (Les Vans) .

• Arrival 7 km : Mazet Plage – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau) .

• Arrival 10 km : Chaulet Beach – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau) .

  
  

⚖️ Enhanced comparator — 7 km vs 10 km vs body of water

7 km — La Molette (Les Vans) → Mazet Plage – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau)

• Audience : families, beginners, gentle start.

• On the water : ≈ 2 hours (allow ½ day with breaks).

• Atmosphere : large flat areas + small gentle rapids , pebble beaches.

• Strong points : frequent swimming, easy water reading, ideal with children (~7+ years old who can swim).

• Departure advice : morning for light and calm; take 1–1.5 L of water/person.

• Shuttles : simple return from Mazet .

  
  

10 km — La Molette (Les Vans) → Chaulet Beach – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau)

• Audience : complete discovery of the gorges, desire to see “a little more”.

• On the water : ≈ 3 hours (comfortable ½ day).

• Atmosphere : striking mineral landscapes, clear basins, photo spots.

• Strong points : “full throat” sensation without excessive effort.

• Departure advice : morning recommended in summer; real salty snack .

• Shuttles : return from Chaulet at multiple timeslots.

  
  

Body of water — 1 hour initiation (canoe/kayak/paddle)

• Audience : toddlers, first time learners, relaxing end of afternoon.

• Atmosphere : calm water, zero stress.

• Usefulness : perfect “before” or “instead” of a descent if conditions are strong.

🥽 Detailed routes

🛶 Canoe-kayak rental on the Chassezac (Berrias and Casteljau, Les Vans)

7 km “Mazet” — La Molette (Les Vans) → Mazet Plage – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau)

• Spirit : ultra-accessible discovery.

• We like : alternating flat + small rapids , swimming coves, Païolive views.

• Duration : ≈ 2 hours on the water (allow ½ day with breaks).

  
  

10 km “Chaulet” — La Molette (Les Vans) → Chaulet Beach – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau)

• Spirit : Full throats with a cool rhythm.

• We like : cliffs, rocky slabs, clear pools, photo points.

• Duration : ≈ 3 hours on the water (allow ½ day ).

  
  

Body of water — 1 hour initiation

• Spirit : learn to paddle without rapids , try canoeing/kayaking/paddling.

• Ideal for : young children, hesitant children, “golden hour” sessions.

  
  

🕘 Slots & shuttles — detailed version

Why aim for the morning?

• Milder temperatures, fewer people , sublime colors for photos.

• The wind often picks up during the day: leave early = more peaceful sailing.

  
  

How does it go on the big day?

1. Check-in → you are given a life jacket, paddles, waterproof container , map + briefing .

2. Choice of your return : at the counter, you select a shuttle slot from the afternoon returns (several trips).

3. Free descent : take your time swimming/picnicing.

4. Meeting point : arrive a little early in Mazet (7 km) or Chaulet (10 km) for your shuttle.

What if we're late?

• There is often a return trip (limited places). Please allow 10–15 minutes.

Special cases

• Groups : dedicated slots, please announce the number of participants.

• High heat/wind : prefer departures before 10 a.m .; otherwise, body of water .

(Exact times and frequencies vary depending on the rental company and the period.)

💶 Prices & inclusions — indicative

• 7 km : ≈ €21–29 / person.

• 10 km : ≈ €22–32 / person.

• Body of water (1 hour) : per hour , depending on the boat.

Very often included : life jacket , paddles , waterproof container , safety briefing ; shuttle depending on the package.

Options : two-seater/single-seater , child seat , additional waterproof bags, family packs .

👉 🎟️ Book my descent (7 km / 10 km) • 📅 See the slots

💧 Water level & quality — practical guide (Chassezac)

Before choosing 7 km “Mazet” or 10 km “Chaulet” , a quick look at the conditions of the day changes everything: comfort, actual duration, choice of format.

What this actually changes

• Higher flow → faster water, less “downtime”: choose the 7 km instead, wear a tight vest, listen to the briefing .

• Lower flow → very smooth navigation, clear water: the 10 km becomes a pleasure with long swims.

• North wind → early departure, shorter distance.

  
  

Bathing quality: reflexes

• Favor clear, calm areas ; after a storm, avoid deep immersion.

• Zero trace : no glass, waste in the sealed container ; do not trample on the seagrass beds .

  
  

With children (~7+ years old who can swim)

• If sustained flow: 7 km + short breaks.

• If very calm: 10 km possible at a relaxed pace , bring a salty snack + 1–1.5 L of water/person.

Simple Plan B

• Toning conditions, fatigue, 1st time → 1 hour on the water (paddle/canoe/kayak), then short descent another day.

  
  

Check “60 seconds” before leaving

1. Time: morning if possible.

2. Route: 7 km if in doubt; 10 km to “see the whole gorge”.

3. Nature: Natura 2000 charter (zero waste, no glass, protected seagrass beds).

4. Safety: life jacket worn, able to swim 25 m + immersion , phone in waterproof case .

   
   

🛡️ Summer under quotas (Natura 2000 / ENS)

From July 14 to August 24 , navigation is limited to 880 boats/day to preserve the gorges ( Natura 2000 site / Sensitive Natural Area ).

• Book your slot early .

• Respect the nature charter : stay on pebble beaches , no glass, zero waste .

  
  

👨👩👧 With children / 🐾 dogs / 🧑🤝🧑 groups / 🧑🏫 supervised

• Children : from ~7 years old if they know how to swim (25 m + immersion). Start with 7 km ; body of water for the youngest.

• Dogs : sometimes allowed on quiet courses → ask when booking (harness, leash, bowl).

• Groups / EVG-EVJF : dedicated slots, group rates possible.

• Supervised / rafting : great if you want to be accompanied or if conditions vary.

🎒 Express checklist (to slip into the bottle)

👟 closed shoes • 🧢 cap • 🧴 sunscreen • 💧 1–1.5 L of water/person • 🥪 snacks/picnic • 📱 waterproof cover • 🎒 waterproof container (provided) • 🧣 anti-UV / windproof top (depending on the weather)

🧾 Actors of Chassezac (alphabetical order, neutral)

Information is indicative; check slots, distances, and options when booking.

• Albatros — base on the Casteljau side (Berrias-et-Casteljau) (Les Blaches sector): 7 km & 10 km.

• CCC Canoë – Chassezac Canoe Company (Les Vans) : 7 km Mazet , 10 km Chaulet , lake , “water flow/quality” information.

• Canoeing Les Vans (Pont de Fer) : descents of the Chassezac in season.

• Ceven'Aventure (Les Vans) : rental & supervised outings .

👉 🎟️ Book my descent (7 km / 10 km)

🧡 After the river: ideas to prolong the magic

📷 Lookouts & short walks (Bois de Païolive) Follow the marked trails of Païolive to gain viewpoints over the gorges: sculpted rocks, shaded clearings, unique karst atmosphere. Easy loops 30–90 min , perfect for late afternoon.

🏖️ Golden bath & relaxation, When the light becomes golden hour , return to a pebble beach for a last bath, reading in the shade and mirror photos on the water. Tip: water sandals + waterproof container to keep towels and phone dry.

🍦 Ardèche flavors (snack / aperitif) Homemade ice cream, matured picodon , chestnut products, local charcuterie, country breads... Create an aperitif-picnic by the water (always zero waste ).

🏘️ Village Strolls (Les Vans & Berrias-et-Casteljau) Narrow streets, small terraces, artisan workshops and designer boutiques: the atmosphere is gentle at the end of the day. In season, find out about markets and evening entertainment.

🚲 Cool bike ride, After the descent, continue with a quiet loop on small roads: valleys, stone walls, orchards - a peaceful way to explore the hamlets around the gorges.

🧘♀️ Relaxation & well-being, Gentle stretching at the water's edge, breathing facing the current, a short yoga session on the grass... perfect for relaxing your shoulders after paddling.

👨👩👧 Family ideas “+1 activity”

• Body of water (1 hour) at the end of the afternoon to try paddleboarding or canoeing again without rapids.

• Mini-hunt for rock shapes on a Païolive trail (children love it).

• Nature observation : fish swimming against the current, dragonflies, bank birds.

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🌅 Sunset, Heading for a belvedere or a calm beach: pink-gold colors on the cliffs, silhouettes of the trees... a wide-angle moment to share.

♻️ Little nature reminder (Natura 2000 / ENS) Stay on the pebbles , no glass, zero waste , no picking in sensitive areas, respect the fauna/flora. Your waterproof container is your best ally to win everything.

🗓️ Mini-ideas 24h / 48h

• 24h : morning 10 km “Chaulet” → guinguette lunch → Païolive walk + sunset.

• 48h : Day 1 7 km “Mazet” at a relaxed pace + lake at the end of the day • Day 2 nature walk, market, then picnic by the water.

📍 How to access canoeing on the Chassezac from Les Vans?

From the village of Les Vans , follow the signs for “ La Molette ”: this is the most common launching point for the 7 km and 10 km descents. On site: check-in , safety briefing , delivery of life jacket , paddles and waterproof container before boarding.

🧭 Where exactly are the Mazet and Plage du Chaulet arrivals located in Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau)?

The 7 km ends at Mazet Plage – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau) ; the 10 km at Chaulet Beach – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau) . These are the disembarkation points where we wait for the return shuttle .

🚌 How does the shuttle work on the Chassezac (Les Vans ⇄ Casteljau)?

You board at La Molette (Les Vans) , disembark at Mazet or Chaulet , then take a shuttle (afternoon times, chosen at check-in ). The reverse also exists depending on the bases (drop-off upstream, arrival at Les Vans).

⏱️ What is the best departure time to access Chassezac in summer?

In the morning (before 10 a.m.): mild temperatures, fewer people , often calmer wind. You can enjoy a peaceful navigation and beautiful colors in the Bois de Païolive .

🧑👩👧 Is access suitable for beginner families (7 km “Mazet”)?

Yes. The 7 km La Molette → Mazet is designed for discovery : large flat areas, gentle rapids , pebble beaches. Perfect for a first time or with children (~7+ years old who can swim).

🏞️ I want to “see the whole gorge”: which access should I choose for the 10 km “Chaulet”?

Depart from La Molette (Les Vans) and aim for the arrival at Plage du Chaulet – Casteljau (Berrias-et-Casteljau) . Allow ≈ 3 hours on the water (+ break time) and a shuttle return in the afternoon.

🗺️ Without a car: can we access the boat launches/arrivals?

Yes, but plan ahead : regional buses serve Les Vans (for La Molette ) and there are stops on the Berrias-et-Casteljau side. Ask your base for the nearest stop and the compatible shuttle schedule .

💧 “Secure” access: where can I check the water level and quality before coming?

Consult Vigicrues (Chassezac) for the flow rate and the official bathing quality portals for Mazet and Chaulet . If the flow rate is high/the wind is strong: choose the 7 km route and leave early .

🛡️ Summer access: are there quotas on the Chassezac?

Yes, from July 14 to August 24 : 880 boats/day . Reserve your slot in advance , especially in the morning, and respect the Natura 2000 charter (zero waste, no glass, protected seagrass beds).

🧰 What is included when you arrive on site (equipment)?

Classically: life jacket , paddles , waterproof container + briefing and shuttle according to route. Options: two-seater/single-seater , child seat , additional waterproof bags, family pack .

👶 What access should you recommend for young children or those who are hesitant?

Two options: 1 hour lake (introduction without rapids ) near Les Vans, or 7 km very early in the morning when the river is calm . The team will brief you on wearing a life jacket and taking breaks .

🐾 Can you bring a dog to the Chassezac trails?

Depending on the base, yes on quiet courses . Bring a harness , leash , foldable bowl , and confirm when booking . In very hot weather, prefer the morning and frequent swimming breaks.

🥪 Are there any convenient points along the route (water, snacks, toilets)?

Fill up with water before boarding ( 1–1.5 L/person ). Take a salty snack in the waterproof container . The toilets are generally located at the reception point (Les Vans / Casteljau) before boarding.

🌤️ Access when it's very hot or windy: which route should you choose?

In a heatwave or north wind , aim for an early morning start and a short route ( 7 km ). Take several breaks in the shade ; if necessary, switch to the water for 1 hour .

🌍 I'm coming from far away: what keywords should I type to find the exact access?

Search for “ La Molette Les Vans launch Chassezac ”, “ Mazet Plage Casteljau Berrias-et-Casteljau ”, “ Chaulet Beach Casteljau Berrias-et-Casteljau ”, “ Canoe descents Chassezac 7 km 10 km ”, “ Shuttle return Chassezac ”. You will come across the right access points and local bases .

Read the full article on Canoeing in Ardèche