Water is everywhere in Ardeche!
There are plenty of places to enjoy water-based activities in Ardeche, although some are easier to see than others! Climb into a canoe or kayak – with or without a guide – to paddle down the Ardeche Gorges, or maybe explore the rivers Chassezac, Eyrieux or Doux, less busy in summer but still bursting with charm. Water in Ardeche is synonymous with strong sensations from the adrenalin rush delivered by canyoning, to the gentle pursuit of wellness and getting in shape. The thermal spas at Vals les Bains, famous for the health benefits of its spring water treatments, and at Saint-Laurent-les-Bains put wellness firmly at the centre of their treatment programmes through massages, lymphatic drainage, hammam and Jacuzzi. Ardeche is also renowned for its sparkling mineral water through brands such as Vals, Reine des Basaltes, Ventadour, Chantemerle, Vernet and Arcens.
And with many rivers rich in fish, Ardeche is also a favourite destination for anglers.
Ardeche offers a wide range of options for keen anglers. Fly fishing, lure fishing, and pole fishing. Fish from a canoe, No Kill sites, and even night fishing for carp. Angling in Ardeche also means enjoying the landscapes of this unspoilt natural region. Full of trout, pike and white-footed crayfish, the rivers and lakes of Ardeche are a delight for anglers who love to indulge in their passion surrounded by nature.
Fishing with a guide
For the ultimate fishing success, book a local guide who will reveal his favourite techniques, whether fly-fishing, angling from a boat, or by using artificial flies. Or even No Kill style. Our rivers, streams and lakes are home to a wide variety of fish including trout, carp, pike, zander, and many others – enough to satisfy everyone from complete beginners to experienced anglers. When you choose one of our quiet rivers – fast-flowing water or something calmer – you are guaranteed an experience to remember. So, ready to bait that hook…?
Wild swimming
There are many places to go swimming in Ardeche, thanks to the department’s many rivers and lakes surrounded by unspoilt countryside – beaches along the riverbanks, swimming spots in the Borne gorges, the Chambaud lake and many others. Enjoy the refreshing experience of a natural water jet or a swim in the heart of this lush, green environment.
Wellbeing in thermal waters
Revitalising is a joy in Ardeche where thermal waters promote both health and wellbeing. Treat yourself to a treatment in spring water that is therapeutic for both body and soul at our three spa resorts: Saint-Laurent-les-Bains, Vals-les-Bains and Neyrac-les-Bains. These spas are great places to relax after a country walk or simply as a treat to yourself. Choose from massages, thermal showers, hot baths, sauna and hammam … pure bliss!
A legendary descent
Set off on a canoe adventure down the magnificent Ardeche Gorges. Alone or with a guide, you will paddle peacefully down a river that has carved out canyons over millennia and created exceptional places to enjoy kayak, canoe or paddle boarding. Options include full-day excursions and two-day itineraries with one night’s camping for the seriously sporty, whilst beginners can book on a gentle expedition of just a few hours on quiet waters. A unique chance to create unforgettable holiday memories.
Prepare your holiday
CHOOSE
Activities on water
Canoeing from Châmes to St Martin d’Ardèche – 24 km / 1 day with La Petite Mer
Discover
Fishing site
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Accommodation
Can I sleep outdoors in the Ardeche Gorges?
The Ardeche Gorges have been classified as a Nature Reserve since 1980 and more than a thousand species of plants and animals now live in 2,000 hectares of protected landscape. Nature reigns supreme here and wild camping is banned in the Nature Reserve.
But two camping areas have been sympathetically laid out between the cliffs and river at the heart of the Gorges in Gaud and Gournier, so that everyone can enjoy this important conservation area.
How do you reserve a pitch in the Gorges de l’Ardeche campsites?
Pitches in the Gorges de l’Ardeche must be booked ahead of your descent by canoe or on foot.
Reservations can be made on line at: https://en.gorges-ardeche-pontdarc.fr/book_your_bivouac-in-the-ardeche-gorges/i-reserve-the-bivouac-campground/
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