🌉 Vallon-Pont-d’Arc: the unmissable spot for Canoeing and Kayaking 🚣♂️ in Ardèche
- Sep 19
- 8 min read
🌟 Where to Rent Your Canoe?
Located at the gateway to the Ardèche Gorges, Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is the canoeing and kayaking capital of Ardèche . Known for its monumental natural arch carved by the Ardèche River, this destination attracts thousands of canoeing enthusiasts , adventure-seeking families, and nature lovers every year.
With its Provençal markets, riverside campsites, and family-friendly accommodation, Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is ideal for renting a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and for exploring the Ardèche Gorges in the best possible conditions.
Paddle under the Pont d'Arc , glide between the limestone cliffs, bathe in clear water and enjoy a unique natural setting... The descent of the Ardèche from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is an experience not to be missed!
🌉 Vallon-Pont-d'Arc: the unmissable spot for canoeing and kayaking 🚣♂️ in Ardèche
🤔 Why does Vallon-Pont-d'Arc appeal so much to canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts?
A lively tourist village 🏘️
Restaurants, shops, and campsites welcome a cosmopolitan crowd every summer. The Provençal market and picturesque alleyways add a typically Ardèche charm to your canoeing day.
A unique natural site in Europe 🌿
The Pont d'Arc (54 m high, 60 m wide) marks the official entrance to the Ardèche Gorges . Paddling under this geological arch formed 500,000 years ago is an unforgettable moment.
A river accessible to all 🌊
Vallon-Pont-d'Arc: the unmissable spot for canoeing and kayaking 🚣♂️ in Ardèche.
Canoe trips from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc are suitable for both families and sports enthusiasts: rental companies provide two-seater canoes, single-seater kayaks, life jackets, paddles, waterproof containers and return shuttles .
🚤 Possible canoe routes from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc – precise launch and arrival times
8 km : arrival at the hamlet of Châmes .
Route: Vallon → Châmes, passage under the Pont d'Arc. ardeche-aventure-canoe.com aigue-vive.com Ardèche Guide
12 km : departure from Sampzon (or Les Mazes/Des Mazes depending on the rental company) → Châmes , with 3–4 slides + Pont d'Arc. (Not “Vallon main beach”).Loulou Bateaux Pont d'Arc Nautical Base Canoeing Ardèche
24 km : departure Châmes → arrival Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche (Sauze beach) . Take “or Salavas”. Ardèche Canoe Descent en.gorges-ardeche-pontdarc.fr
Bivouac : 2 official areas only ( Gaud ~1/3, Gournier ~1/2), reservation required via the OT/SGGA; fires prohibited, specific rules for dogs/drone. Ardèche Gorges - SGGA+1 en.gorges-ardeche-pontdarc.fr Ardèche Canoës Service Gorges d'Ardèche
In Details:
🌅 Downhill 6–8 km – Ideal for beginners / families
Departure : pier at Vallon-Pont-d'Arc → passage under the Pont d'Arc . Arrival : hamlet of Châmes (marked stops). Duration on the water : 1h30–2h (allow ½ day with breaks). Included : life jackets, paddles, waterproof container, safety briefing; return shuttle depending on rental company. ardeche-aventure-canoe.com aigue-vive.com Ardèche Guide
🏞️ 12 km descent – Fun half-day (slides + Pont d'Arc)
Departure : Sampzon (or Les Mazes/Des Mazes depending on the rental company). Highlights : 3–4 canoe slides , Charlemagne rapids, Pont d'Arc . Arrival : Châmes . Duration : 2.5–4 hours depending on water level and breaks.Loulou Bateaux Pont d'Arc Nautical Base Canoeing Ardèche
⛰️ 24 km Descent – “Wild Gorges” Day
Departure : Châmes (Reserve entrance). Arrival : Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche (Sauze beach) . Duration : 5–7 hours depending on flow/pace. Advice : early departure + regular breaks. Ardèche Canoe Descent en.gorges-ardeche-pontdarc.fr
⛺ 2 days with bivouac (31 or 36 km)
Principle : combine 8+24 km (31 km) or 12+24 km (36 km). Official bivouacs : Gaud (~1/3 of the route) or Gournier (~1/2). Reservation required via the Tourist Office; no fires; dogs on leashes ; use of drones prohibited . Ardèche Canoës Service en.gorges-ardeche-pontdarc.fr Gorges de l'Ardèche - SGGA Gorges d'Ardèche
🚤 Canoe and kayak rental companies in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
🚣♂️ ABC Canoë – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (center) – abc-canoe.com
🛶 Adventure Camp – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (Ardèche road) – adventure-camp.fr
🚣♀️ Alain Bateaux – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (center) – alainbateaux.com
🛥️ Aigue Vive Canoeing – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (Gorges road) – aigue-vive.com
🛶 Pont d'Arc Watersports Center – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (near Pont d'Arc) – basepontdarc.com
🚣 Canoeing Ardèche – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (center) – canoe-ardeche.com
🛶 Canoes Service – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (center) – canoesservice.com
🚣♂️ Cap07 Canoe – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (tourist route) – cap07canoe.com
🛥️ Castor Canoe – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (Lagorce road) – castorcanoe.com
🚣♀️ La Petite Mer – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (near the center) – lapetitemer.com
🛶 Loulou Bateaux – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (Gorges road) – louloubateaux.com
🚣 One Canoë – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (center) – onecanoe.fr
…and many other rental companies present in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc and its surroundings.
💧 Water level & quality
Unable to track in real time, but you can check before you go :
Ardèche level – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc station (Hydro/Eaufrance): hydro.eaufrance.fr
Flood warning – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc station (flow and flood warning): vigicrues.gouv.fr
Water quality – Pont d'Arc beach: qualite.ardeche-eau.fr
Official analyses – Vallon-Pont-d'Arc Town Hall: vallon-pont-darc.com
How to quickly interpret:
High flow → faster current: prefer a short route or early morning departure.
Low flow rate → quiet navigation: longer journeys possible.
North wind → early departure recommended for greater comfort.
With children (~7+ years): well-fitting vest, frequent breaks, morning departure recommended.
Local information: Pont d'Arc beach is monitored every summer , and water analyses are published regularly on the departmental portal and the town hall website.
Practical reminders (Natura 2000 zone): zero waste in the waterproof container, no glass on the pebbles, do not trample on the seagrass beds, respect municipal by-laws and rental company instructions.
📊 Comparison of descents around Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
Departure city | Available courses | Recommended audience | Average duration | Highlights | Practical tips |
Vallon-Pont-d'Arc | 6 km, 12 km, 24 km, 2 days bivouac | Families, couples, athletes, groups | 1h30 to 7h (or 2 days) | Passage under the Pont d'Arc, limestone cliffs | Book early morning with shuttle included |
Ruoms | 7 km, 10 km, 20 km | Families with children, beginners | 2h to 5h | Calmer water, accessible beaches | Kayak rental + return bus |
Vogüé | 5 km, 10 km, 15 km | Ideal for beginners / short outings | 1h30 to 4h | Listed medieval village, gentle river | Combine descent + visit to the village |
Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche | 8 km, 24 km | Sportsmen, long descents | 2 a.m. to 7 a.m. | End/beginning of the Gorges, Devil's Bridge | Check secure parking included |
Pradons | 6 km, 10 km | Families and beginners | 1h30 to 3h | Easy start, calm landscapes | Book online |
Chauzon | 7 km, 12 km | Families, moderate athletes | 2h to 4h | Nice accessible rapids | Renters with vest and container provided |
Balazuc | 8 km, 10 km, 20 km | Medieval villages and nature | 2h to 5h | One of the most beautiful villages in France | Combine visit + canoe trip |
Salavas | 6 km, 24 km | Families and athletes | 1:30 to 7 a.m. | Near Vallon-Pont-d'Arc | Free parking early in the morning |
Sampzon | 8 km, 12 km | Beginners, relaxing outings | 2h to 4h | Peaceful departure, views of Rocher de Sampzon | Return shuttle recommended |
💶 Indicative prices: canoeing or kayaking in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
Wondering how much it costs to canoe or kayak down the Ardèche from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc? Here's a quick overview:
Cheap two-seater canoe Vallon-Pont-d'Arc : €25 to €35 per person (6 to 12 km); €35 to €40 (24 km day).
Ardèche single-seater sports kayak : €27 to €42 depending on the route , slightly more expensive than a canoe.
Third place for a child in a family canoe : €15 to €20 , ideal solution for families.
2-day Ardèche descent with bivouac : €60 to €70 per person , canoe or kayak, with shuttle and equipment transported.
🅿️ Where to park in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc for canoeing?
Private parking at rental companies: free, often monitored.
Municipal parking: paid (€5 to €10 per day).
Long-stay areas: Included for 2-day descents with bivouac. Tip: Arrive early in the morning in July and August for easy access.
💡 Practical tips for a successful outing
Book your canoe in advance : morning slots fill up quickly.
Choose the right route according to the children's age and the weather.
Equip yourself well : closed shoes, sunscreen, life jacket required, drinking water.
Respect nature : use official drop-off areas and take your waste with you.
Enjoy the village : Provençal market, artisanal ice cream, visit to the Chauvet Cave 2.
🧰 Recommended equipment checklist
👟 Closed-toe shoes / 🩴 Water sandals
🦺 Mandatory vest provided by the rental company
🛶 Paddle and 🧴 waterproof container
🧢 Cap, ☀️ sunscreen, 🕶️ sunglasses
💧 Drinking water 1–1.5 L / pers.
🥪 Small snack or picnic
📦 Waterproof bag for phone and personal belongings
🧣 Anti-UV / windproof clothing depending on the weather
🏞️ Points of interest to discover around Vallon-Pont-d'Arc after your canoe or kayak trip
The Pont d'Arc : a spectacular natural site and emblem of the descent of the Ardèche.
Chauvet Cave 2 : to dive into prehistoric cave art.
Scenic hiking trails : breathtaking views of the gorges and the river.
Local markets : Ardèche local produce to enjoy after your workout.
🚣♀️ Conclusion
Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, the beating heart of canoeing and kayaking in Ardèche , seduces with its landscapes, its varied descents and its practical infrastructures. Whether you are with family, a couple or an athlete, prepare yourself to experience an unforgettable descent of the Ardèche under the Pont d'Arc
❓ FAQ – Descent of the Ardèche by canoe-kayak
💶 What is the average price of a canoe rental in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc for a short trip?
The price for a 6 km canoe rental in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc is generally between €20 and €30 per person , including life jacket, paddle and container. The return shuttle is almost always included, which eliminates the need to organize a second vehicle.
🛶 Can you rent a single-seater or two-seater kayak in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc?
Yes, all rental companies offer single-seater kayaks for athletes and two-seater canoes for families or couples . Some rental companies also provide an additional child seat for children from 7 years old for short trips.
📅 Should you book your canoe or kayak rental in advance in summer?
In July and August, demand is high: booking online at least 48 hours in advance allows you to choose the ideal time (often in the morning) and avoid queues. During the off-season, you can sometimes rent directly on site.
👶 Which descent should you choose with children or beginners?
The 6 km descent under the Pont d'Arc is the most suitable: few rapids, calm beaches for taking breaks and a journey time of around 1h30 to 2h. Ideal for a first canoeing-kayaking experience in Ardèche .
🛶 What equipment is included in the canoe rental in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc?
Rental companies provide life jackets, paddles, and waterproof containers . Some also lend laminated maps of the route. It is advisable to bring closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and drinking water .
🐕 Can you take a dog canoeing in Ardèche?
Most rental companies accept small to medium-sized dogs. Bring a dog life jacket and avoid very hot days. Always request confirmation when booking.
⏱️ How long does a classic canoe trip down the Ardèche last?
The routes vary:
6 to 8 km : approximately 1h30 to 2h30
12 km : approximately 3 to 4 hours
24 km : a full day (5 to 7 hours)
30 to 36 km with bivouac : 2 days with night in official area.
💧 How to check the water level before renting a canoe?
Consult:
Vigicrues ( vigicrues.gouv.fr ) for the flow rate
Hydro Eaufrance (hydro.eaufrance.fr ) for the height
Local analyses ( ardeche-eau.fr ) for quality. A high flow rate = more sporty route , a low flow rate = peaceful navigation .
🌅 What is the best time of day to go down the Ardèche?
Mornings (9-10am): Less wind, pleasant temperatures, and fewer people on the water. In summer, morning slots fill up quickly, so it's important to book early.
🎟️ Can we combine canoe rental and a visit to the Chauvet Cave 2?
Yes, it's an ideal program: canoeing in the morning , lunch break, then cultural visit in the afternoon . The rental companies and the cave are located a few minutes' drive from each other.
Comments