The Gorges de l’Ardèche is the perfect place for an active family vacation in France. Our Swiss contributor Michi Bösiger presents his highlights of the region in the south of France.
Kayaking, camping, cave magic
32 kilometers of gorges: The Ardèche is a wonder bag for the whole family. The starting point for the kayak tours is the natural stone bridge PONT D`ARC, a landmark of southern France.
Provisions are packed in waterproof barrels. Also bath towels, sun cream and cameras. The Tatonka pack sacks prove to be very practical here. And as footwear and protection the sandals from Teva. We have flip flops in our luggage for after paddling – a blessing! After slipping into the life jackets and grabbing the paddles, it’s time to go!
Whether young or old, beginner or experienced, the nature reserve Gorges de l’Ardèche between Vallon-Pont-dArc and Saint Martin-dArdèche is an adventurous swimming paradise. From the eight-kilometer mini-parcours to the three-day trip, everything is possible.
Reading tip: Camping – Your guide for relaxed camping vacations
Kayak Tour on the Ardèche River
We decide to take the 24-kilometer kayak tour, for which we plan about seven hours. On the beautiful beaches, which can only be reached by boat, fire is strictly prohibited. But a picnic “à la française”, with crusty baguette, delicious soft cheese and sweet fruits as refreshment in between, is pure pleasure.
Capsize in one of the 25 rapids? That’s part of it, but it doesn’t have to be if you “read” the river correctly.
The Barrel ‘S’ from Tatonka is absolutely easy to clean and water resistant thanks to its truck tarpaulin material.
With stowable backpack straps and rubberized handles on both sides.
“Cathedral”, “Balcony of the Knights Templar”, or “Circus of the Madeleine”
are the names of the rock formations, up to 300 meters high, which you can see if you look up from time to time. But the underworld is also spectacular.
Caves
In more than 100 million years the river created bizarre canyons. In the process, labyrinths were created that are worth visiting. The Chauvet Cave, with its 400 drawings and paintings, is a Unesco World Heritage Site. Since this cave is not open to the public, a detailed copy of the grotto was made. Unique in Europe: the illuminated water cascades made of calcite in the Cave de St. Marcel. They are reminiscent of a magical fairy tale world.
Also interesting: Canoeing on the River Lahn
Pont d’Arc
The Pont d’Arc, a natural stone bridge is the most photographed landmark in the Ardèche. In June, top American climber Chris Sharma rocked the rock arch with the first Deep Water Soloing. At 30 meters, the climbing pioneer gave up and jumped into the floods of the Ardèche. His route is not for imitators. Adrenaline junkies better watch the scene on the Internet.
Information:
Camping
Nothing is more relaxing and free than to enjoy your vacation in your own tent:
From the feudal “Glamping” (Glamour&Camping) to the cozy and family camping, for example directly at the Pont d’Arc, everything can be found.
Kayak
There are numerous rental stations around the town of Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, it is best to inquire directly at the campsite.
General info: www.gorges-ardeche.net
Text (German): Michi Bösiger
Photos: Caroline Micaela Hauger www.peakart.ch
