Kayaking down the Gorges of the Ardèche Le Pont d'Arc

Vallon Pont d'Arc is a village in the west of the Ardèce in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is a unique geological wonder in the world, located at the entrance to the Gorges de l'Ardèche. 54 meters high, 60 meters wide and dated at least 500,000 years, it is a truly exceptional site. Located near the UNESCO-listed Chauvet – Pont d'Arc cave, it is THE must-see photo spot!

Vallon Pont d'Arc is like many vacation spots is lovely french village that known and loved as the starting point for canoeing and kayaking down the Gorges of the Ardèche. Swimming under the imposing stone arch is truly an incredible feeling. With its two beaches upstream and downstream, the Pont d'Arc site is a delight for bathers from spring.

It is also the essential passage for the tens of thousands of "adventurers" who embark on the descent of the Gorges de l'Ardèche by canoe .

In the fall, when the International Marathon starts, which attracts nearly 2,000 canoe-kayak enthusiasts, the atmosphere is extraordinary.

The various hiking trails that pass nearby offer incredible panoramic views.

Warning! Parking spaces are limited so don't hesitate to take the shuttles offered during the summer period. There is a food van on the first beach and looks like there would be one on the second beach come July/August. There is access to toilets as well on the beach. This place is just lovely.