Discover la Semoy: An adventurous day of packraft fun!
Discover the breathtaking beauty of la Semoy in France on an exciting day trip of 13 km of paddling and 10 km of hiking. Start in the small village of Naux and paddle the winding river surrounded by lush nature, braving an adventurous kayak slide along the way. Upon arrival in Monthermé, you’ll have a chance to recharge for the return trip. The 10 km hike takes you through beautiful forests and offers impressive panoramic views. Get ready for a perfect combination of paddling and hiking!
Well-prepared packrafting on the Semoy: equipment, tips and safety
The first thing to do in your preparation is to rent your full packraft equipment. At Rent a Packraft, this process is easy and quick. Visit their user-friendly website, where you can put together your complete kit perfect for your adventure. Be sure not to forget your life jacket, as it is mandatory to wear on the water in France! After placing your order, the equipment will be delivered to your door as soon as possible. So you don’t have to worry, with the right equipment you are sure to have a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Check on this website if paddling on la Semoy is allowed today. If the river has a green code, you may go. With yellow, orange or red, a ban counts. It is wise to prepare your backpack the day before departure. Take your packraft gear bag and supplement it with some essential items. Make sure you bring a basic first aid kit. It is always good to be prepared for minor mishaps. A charged power bank is handy so you can use your smartphone for navigation or to capture those wonderful moments without worrying about a dead battery. Also consider sunscreen, headgear and sunglasses in warm weather – a scarf, hat and gloves in cold weather. Check the weather forecast on the morning of departure and adjust your clothing accordingly. Wearing several layers is a smart choice. It allows you to adapt to changing conditions. It may be chilly in the morning, but by the afternoon the temperature can rise considerably. Layering keeps you comfortable no matter the weather. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water, snacks and a nice lunch.
Adventure at la Semoy
We park near the soccer field in a small French village of Naux. The municipality asks us to park here and not in the parking lot by the water because of nuisance. There is a sign on that parking lot directing us to the parking lot of the soccer field. From this parking we walk some 827m to the water, this is river La Semoy. The grassy area with benches is ideal for preparing our packraft equipment. Snap your paddle together properly, inflate your packraft with the air bag and put on your life jacket. Inflate your packraft well with your mouth at the end so that it stands firmly. Look around carefully to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything on the grass or on a bench. If you have everything, you can properly attach your backpack to
the packraft and off we go on the water. After 3.5 km (No. 15) we come to a fork, take the right waterway. The left waterway narrows considerably and obstacles such as fallen trees are not out of the question. At 6,45 km (no. 33) and 7,5 km (no. 40) we come again to a fork, always take the right waterway. From 9.4 km you will see the dam, on the left side there is a kayak slide provided. You’ll be down before you know it, but it makes the route even more adventurous! Pure fun! We continue paddling enthusiastically until the place where la Semoy flows into la Meuse (13 km – no. 82). Here we paddle with the current to the right. When the wind is strong, this stretch is a tough paddle. Be sure to paddle on the left
bank. You’ll see a prominent bridge in the distance and the Monthermé marina to your left. Paddle past this still and just around the corner you have a trailer ramp where you can easily dock. We stow the packraft equipment and check that we haven’t forgotten anything. You can enjoy your lunch on the lawn or for those who prefer something to eat, Le Snack au P’tit Bateau and Les Boucles de Meuse – Restaurant are nearby. Recharged and full of energy, we start the hiking part.
Hiking above the Semoy: viewpoints, Roc la Tour and the descent to Naux
We start over the bridge. Between the houses we see stairs, we follow these stairs to the top where we enjoy a panoramic view of Monthermé (14.7 km). Our next panoramic view is at Roc la Tour (19 km). Hidden in the forest, this geological site is grandiose. Roc la Tour is a rocky chaos around 3 pillars. This was already a meeting place in prehistoric times, as the engraved slates prove. This is a wonderful place to pause. A nice snack and drink by a beautiful view. Are you ready for the last 3 km? Then start the descent towards Naux, where the car is parked.
Ready for your Semoy adventure?
La Semoy offers a unique combination of adventure, nature and breathtaking views that you don’t want to miss! So what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the river and forests and make the most of your adventure! Rent your full packraft equipment now and get ready for an unforgettable day on la Semois! With Rent a Packraft, simply rent online and everything will be delivered to your home as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is packrafting on the Semoy suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Semoy in Ardennes, France is suitable for beginner to intermediate. You don’t need any previous packraft experience. Rent a Packraft provides a complete kit including paddle, life jacket and instructional materials just get on and enjoy.
What is the best time to packraften on the Semoy?
The best period for Semoy in the Ardennes, France is April to October. High season (July-August) is busier on popular routes. Book your gear on time through Rent a Packraft for delivery within 24 hours.
How long is a day trip on the Semoy?
A typical day trip on the Semoy is 15 to 20 kilometers and takes 4 to 6 hours. The river flows through a peaceful forest landscape on the border of Belgium and France. Perfect for an adventurous day away from the crowds.
Rent from 21.50 per day
Includes paddle and backpack. We deliver to your door within 24 hours. You choose where to go.
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