Description
Maxi-mini trip along the Ardèche – 12 km
The 12 km trip is ideal for those who are looking for an easy descent of the Ardèche.
The limited water flow along the first 4 kilometres will allow you to learn how to handle your canoe, or quite simply just admire the landscape.
After passing the four slides designed especially for canoes, you will have just one hour to paddle before you reach Pont-d’Arc where you can enjoy swimming beneath the famous natural bridge.
For more information about the organisation of your day, consult the “Details” tab.
Departure :
For the 12 km Maxi-Mini trip, a shuttle service will take you to our landing stage at Sampzon bridge where the itinerary starts. Four departure times are available: 9 am - 10.30 am - 12 pm - 1.30 pm.
You will have to arrive at the landing stage 30 minutes before the chosen departure time. All the equipment you need for canoeing will be supplied by our team (26 L or 56 L watertight containers and paddles), as well as a few useful instructions about how to steer your canoe, passing slides and rapids.
Once you have been informed and are fully equipped, a shuttle service will take you to the departure point in Sampzon, 4 km upstream.
Descent :
On the first part of the 12-km trip (between Sampzon and Vallon Pont-d'Arc), there is a limited water flow and the route offers no difficulties. You will encounter four weirs that can be passed easily with the canoe slides.
After Vallon-Pont d'Arc (11/2 hours paddling from Sampzon), the water flow increases slightly (a few small rapids will have to be negotiated) and it will take one hour to paddle to the Pont d'Arc natural arch.
It will then take about thirty minutes to paddle to the arrival point.
Arrival and return :
The arrival point is located in the hamlet of Chames, at stop No. 5.
A shuttle service will wait for you at the time you chose before setting off and will take you back to the landing stage at Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.
Horaires de retour :
To be indicated before departure:
11 am - 12 pm - 2 pm - 3 pm - 4 pm - 5 pm - 6 pm
>> See practical advice for canoeing.
Maxi-Mini - 12km |
| Internet | High season | Low season |
1 to 9 adults |
35 |
38 |
36 |
10 to 19 adults |
33 |
36 |
34 |
20+ adults |
31 |
34 |
32 |
Kids (7 to 15 yo) |
23 |
26 |
24 |
Kid 7 to 12 yo (On the third seat) |
19 |
19 |
19 |
High season from 5/07/2025 to 30/08/2025