Packrafting in Réserve Naturelle des Gorges de l’Ardèche
Imagine paddling on l’Ardèche, surrounded by imposing cliffs and lush forests. Classified as a national nature reserve since 1980, this enchanting setting not only offers a spectacular backdrop, but also houses a rich and fragile biodiversity. The Gorges de l’Ardèche is a place where adventure meets nature and where each paddle stroke takes you deeper into the heart of this unique landscape. Prepare for an unforgettable experience full of adrenaline and natural wonders, and be inspired to explore the Gorges de l’Ardèche for yourself!
Be prepared: this is what you need for your packraft trip on the Ardèche
A good adventure begins with careful preparation! Before sliding your packraft into the water in the breathtaking Gorges de l’Ardèche, it is important to get everything right.
- Rent your gear from Rent a Packraft:
Make sure you have the right equipment by renting your entire packraft gear online from Rent a Packraft. They deliver everything you need, from the packraft itself to the mandatory life jackets and helmets, quickly and conveniently to your home Don’t forget to rent a dry suit as well, so you stay dry during your adventure. It’s crucial to be well prepared, especially in a natural area like this! - Check the water level:
Before you leave, it is also important to check the water level of the Ardeche River. Go to the website of Vigicrues, and see if the status is green, which means it is safe to sail. If the status is yellow, orange or red, look for an alternative packraft route. - Bring plenty of snacks and water:
During your trip, you won’t encounter any places to eat, so be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water A well-filled lunch (e.g., a cold pasta) is essential to keep your energy up while paddling through this beautiful natural area. - Read the local regulations here after. For example, alcohol is prohibited in this area and you may not leave any trash behind.
- Navigation and essentials: Make sure you have the route set up on your navigation system in advance. A charged power bank and your cell phone are handy for emergencies and navigation. Don’t forget to include tissues, a towel and a first aid kit in your gear as well – better prepared than unprepared!
- Check the weather forecast:
So you can provide suitable clothing. Make sure in advance you have sturdy hiking boots with good grip.
Hiking to the Ardèche: panoramic views and a plunge into adventure
We leave at the parking lot. Public restrooms are provided here. In high season, the parking lot may be full early. You may still be able to park in Vallon-Pont-d’Arc. We cross the main road and begin our route uphill: a beautiful trail with lots of stones. Wearing sturdy hiking shoes with good grip and some caution, especially in rainy weather, are recommended. Once at the top, we are rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the area. After 2 km, we cross an old bridge. Here the tributary river L’ibie flows through. Enjoying nature, we walk on. We cross l’Ardèche via a large bridge (6.48 km) and from there we have a view of a beautiful dam. After crossing, we go directly to the small beach (7.65 km) where we take to the water.
Take the packraft equipment out of your backpack, inflate the packraft with the accompanying air bag and snap together the paddle. Put important gear that shouldn’t get wet into the waterproof pouch and look around to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything. Put on your dry suit, your life jacket and put on your helmet. Re-inflate your packraft with your mouth just before entering the water. Then attach the backpack to the front of the packraft.
Packrafting through Pont d'Arc
L’ardèche has a lot of rapids. Here are the rapids that are on our route:
- Rapide des Blachas;
- Rapide des Branches;
- Rapide de Charlemagne;
- Rapide de Champel (after Pont d’Arc);
- Rapide du Révaou (after Pont d’Arc);
- Rapide Les Trois Eaux (after Pont d’Arc);
- Rapide de l’Olivier (after Pont d’Arc);
- Rapide de la Souche (at the cave).
After 10.8 km we pass through rapids ‘Rapide de Charlemagne’. At this point we also get a view of the world famous ‘Pont d’Arc’. The Pont d’Arc and its surroundings have been a protected area since 1931. It is the second most visited natural site in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes after Mont Blanc. This complex, also called Combe d’Arc (or Cirque d’Estre), includes the original cavity of the Chauvet cave. It was discovered in 1994 and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. We sail under Pont d’Arc. On the banks you have sand banks where you can take a break while enjoying this view.
We paddle on quietly, enjoying the peace and quiet. Around 15.8 km (No. 69) we see on the left side a large hollow at the top of a rock, this is cave du Colombier. We take our last rapids (Rapide de la Souche) and then we moor on the left bank. Here you can take a quiet break and stow your packraft equipment again. Be sure to bring everything back, including your trash. They check strictly for this.
Hiking back past caves, waterfalls and village charm in Ardeche
We start walking back toward the parking lot. Soon you pass an old house built against the rocks. An interesting sight. We continue our route.At 17.4 km there can be confusion about the hiking path. There are symbols on the trees, they help you to walk in the right direction. We pass cave “Renault”, followed by a narrow path that goes under a small waterfall. Be careful not to slip and enjoy the refreshing drops that fall on your face. We walk a bit on the main road ‘Route des Gorges’ and take the first turn on the right. Here in the old village you have a drinking water tap so you can refill your drinking bottle for the last bit towards the parking lot.
Bivouac in the heart of the reserve
Those who want to go packrafting for several days can use the two bivouac sites: Gaud and Gournier. No other accommodation is allowed in the Gorges de l’Ardèche National Nature Reserve, out of absolute respect for the tranquility of the animals and their environment. The bivouacs of Gaud and Gournier, owned by the Ardèche department, have been made accessible to hikers and canoe-kayak enthusiasts. Planning to spend the night in the heart of the reserve? Don’t forget to here make a reservation and check the rules.
Discover the splendor of the Gorges de l'Ardèche
During this unforgettable route, we hike past breathtaking panoramic views and paddle through the iconic Pont d’Arc. The magic of the Gorges de l’Ardèche really comes alive as you admire the dramatic cliffs and serene nature from your packraft. Each bend of the river reveals new wonders, and each view offers a moment of pure wonder. Want to live this experience yourself? Rent your complete packraft equipment directly online from Rent a Packraft and have it delivered quickly to your home. Get ready for an adventure that will stay with you for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is packrafting on the Ardeche suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Gorges de l’Ardèche in southern France is suitable for intermediate (some power experience desired). 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 packraft on the Ardeche?
The best period for the Gorges de l’Ardèche in southern France is April to June and September (avoid heat wave-summer). High season (July-August) is busier on popular routes. Book your gear on time through Rent a Packraft for delivery within 24 hours.
Is the Ardeche suitable for beginners?
The Gorges de l’Ardeche are spectacular but also have technical sections with class 3 rapids. For beginners, we recommend a guide or a quiet starting point outside the gorges. Experienced packrafters enjoy the best here.
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