The Vaucluse and the surrounding area offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy water sports on the rivers during your holiday. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful canoe trip with the family, a refreshing outing in the heart of nature, or a challenging descent, there are plenty of canoe routes to be found less than an hour and a half’s drive from our holiday home in Entraigues-sur-la-Sorgue.
Canoeing in the Vaucluse and the surrounding area is an excellent way to discover the landscapes of Provence in a different way: the clear waters of the Sorgue, the majestic arches of the Pont du Gard, wild rivers or the impressive gorges of the Ardèche. This outdoor activity in Provence offers a route to suit everyone’s level, from beginners to thrill-seekers.
In this article, we present the main canoeing trips accessible from Entraigues-sur-la-Sorgue, detailing for each trip the difficulty level, duration, distance and the type of audience for which it is suitable.
Canoeing during your holiday in the Vaucluse?
In summer, canoeing is one of the best ways to enjoy the landscapes of the South of France whilst cooling off at the same time. From our holiday home in Entraigues-sur-la-Sorgue, you can easily reach various rivers, ranging from calm waters to rugged gorges and iconic spots in Provence.
By choosing a canoe trip near Entraigues-sur-la-Sorgue, you’ll discover the region in a completely different way. Seen from the river, the landscape changes completely: you’ll glide past the foot of the Pont du Gard, paddle along the clear waters of the Sorgue at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, or traverse the spectacular gorges of the Ardèche.
This activity is suitable for both families with children and active holidaymakers. Some routes are very easy and accessible to beginners, whilst others involve several hours of paddling and feature a few rapids. Everyone can find a trip to suit their preferences, whether it’s a leisurely descent, a more active adventure, or exploring the most beautiful landscapes of Provence.
Easy, family-friendly runs
The Sorgue at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
The Sorgue is undoubtedly the most accessible river for a first canoeing trip. Fed by the famous resurgence at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, it charms visitors with its crystal-clear water, its coolness and its lush green landscapes. All along the route, you paddle between trees, small bridges and peaceful banks, in a very pleasant atmosphere in summer.
From our holiday home near the canoeing routes in Provence, it takes about 25 to 30 minutes by car to reach the start of the routes. The routes on the Sorgue are generally short and easy, with very little current and no particular difficulties. Most rental companies offer trips of 6 to 8 kilometres, taking around 1½ to 2½ hours depending on your pace and breaks.
The difficulty level is very easy: this river is particularly suitable for families with children, beginners and anyone who simply wants to enjoy a relaxing time on the water. It is also an excellent option for nature lovers who want to discover the Vaucluse in a different way, without any significant physical effort.
In Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, Canoë Evasion and Canoë Kayak Vert are popular starting points.
The Gardon around the Pont du Gard
A canoe trip along the Gardon is one of the most beautiful ways to explore the famous Pont du Gard. From the river, you gradually draw closer to the monument, before passing directly beneath the arches, in a spectacular setting where Roman heritage and unspoilt nature come together.
From our holiday home for families with children, it is about a 45-minute drive to the departure points around Collias. The most accessible routes generally follow the Gardon between Collias and the Pont du Gard. They traverse the Gorges du Gardon on a calm river, with just a few small rapids that are very easy to navigate.
The most popular family route is around 8 kilometres long and takes between 2 and 2.5 hours. The difficulty level is easy: this descent is perfectly suited to families with children aged 6 and over, beginners and anyone looking for a combination of outdoor activity, exploring heritage and swimming. Several rental companies also offer slightly longer routes, up to 15 kilometres, for those who want to spend more time on the water.
To organise this outing, you could, for example, set off from “Kayak Vert Pont du Gard” – “Canoeing on the Gardon” or “Canoe Collias”, bases in Collias specialising in descents around the Pont du Gard.
Canoe routes for sports enthusiasts
The Cèze River
The Cèze is wilder and less crowded than the Sorgue or the Gardon, offering a lovely alternative for those seeking a more natural and slightly more challenging river. Set amongst limestone cliffs, dense vegetation and small hilltop villages such as La Roque-sur-Cèze, the landscape is particularly pleasant.
From our holiday home, it is about a 1-hour drive to the starting points around Goudargues or La Roque-sur-Cèze. Unlike the very calm rivers, the Cèze has a few small rapids, which are generally easy to navigate in summer when the water level is moderate. They remain accessible, but do require a little more attention and skill than a simple family outing. The difficulty level is therefore moderate, making this trip more suitable for those who already have some experience with canoeing.
Various routes are available, depending on the time available and your skill level. The shortest descents are around 5 to 7 kilometres long and take 1 to 2 hours. The medium-length routes are 12 kilometres long and take around 3 hours, whilst the longest descents through the Cèze gorges can be up to 19 kilometres and take 5 hours or more.
To organise this outing, you could, for example, contact “Cèze Canoës”, which offers various routes in the Cèze valley and gorges, or the “Base de Loisirs Nautiques” in the Gorges de la Cèze, located near Saint-André-de-Roquepertuis.
Challenging canoe trip along the Gardon downstream from the Pont du Gard
For those looking for a longer and more challenging tour, there are several challenging routes along the Gardon downstream or around the Pont du Gard. Unlike the family-friendly 8-kilometre descent, these routes take you through the more unspoilt parts of the gorge; they are longer, include some sections where you have to walk over the rocks and, depending on the route chosen, sometimes involve a slight climb upstream.
From our holiday home, it is about a 45-minute drive to the starting points in Collias. The most common challenging routes are between 15 and 19 kilometres long. The Collias – La Baume – Pont du Gard route, for example, is 15 kilometres long and takes about 4 to 5 hours, whilst other descents can be up to 19 kilometres and take almost a full day.
The difficulty level is moderate. The current is generally moderate, but due to the length of the route, a few small rapids, rocky sections and the physical exertion required, this trip is more suitable for people who already have experience with canoeing. It is recommended that you are in good physical condition, a strong swimmer and avoid these routes when the water level is very low or, conversely, after heavy rainfall.
To organise this canoe trip, you can set off from “Kayak Vert Pont du Gard” or “Canoë Collias”, which offer a variety of challenging routes in the Gorges du Gardon.
The best sporting canoe trips in the region
The best sporting canoe trips in the region
The descent through the Gorges de l’Ardèche is the best known and most spectacular in the region. From the Moulin de Souchières, it is about a 1.5-hour drive to Vallon-Pont-d’Arc, the starting point for most canoeing routes.
There are various descents available, depending on your level and the time you have available. The mini-descent of 7 to 8 kilometres is the most accessible: this takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and takes you right under the famous Pont d’Arc. This trip is ideal for families with older children or sporty beginners.
For a full day, there is the 24-kilometre grand descent through the gorges. This crosses the nature reserve and takes around 4.5 to 5 hours of paddling, or nearly a full day including breaks. The more adventurous can even opt for the 31 to 32-kilometre route, which is longer and more demanding.
It is also possible to complete the descent over two days, with an overnight stay in a bivouac in the middle of the gorges. The most popular options combine the 8-kilometre mini-descent with the 24-kilometre main descent, allowing you to explore the entire area at your leisure.
The level of difficulty depends on the route chosen. The short trip remains easy, whilst the routes ranging from 24 to 32 kilometres are of moderate to difficult difficulty, featuring various rapids, including those of the Charlemagne, and a long time spent on the water. This trip is particularly recommended for teenagers, sports enthusiasts and thrill-seekers who wish to enjoy one of the finest canoeing experiences in the South of France.
To organise your trip, you can contact ‘Loulou Bateaux’ or ‘Aventure Canoës’, two well-known rental companies offering various routes through the gorges.
Tips before setting off on the Ardèche
In summer, the descents through the Ardèche Gorges are very busy. It is therefore strongly recommended that you book several days in advance, especially in July and August, when morning departures are often fully booked.
Even for a relatively short descent, remember to take enough water with you, as it can get very hot in the gorges. You should also wear closed-toe shoes that fit securely, as you may need to walk on rocks or in the water. Open-toed sandals and flip-flops should be avoided. A cap, sunglasses and sun cream are also essential.
Before setting off, always check the day’s conditions with the rental company. Water levels can vary depending on the season or following rainfall, which may make certain rapids easier or more difficult. Finally, each route has a minimum age requirement depending on its length and difficulty: the mini-descent is generally suitable for children aged 5 to 7, whilst the longer descents are often restricted to children aged 7 to 12, depending on the rental company.
Summary table of runs
| River / place | Distance from Entraigues-sur-la-Sorgue | Level of difficulty | Approximate duration | Target audience | Key strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorgue river in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse | 25 - 30 min | Very easy | 2 h | Families with children, beginners, nature lovers | Crystal-clear water and a shaded route |
| The River Gardon near the Pont du Gard | 45 mn | Easy | 2 h - 2 h 30 | Families and visitors looking to combine nature and heritage | Passing under the famous Pont du Gard |
| Cèze river | 1 h | A bit more active | 1–5 hours, depending on the route | People who have already done a bit of canoeing | A wilder and less crowded river |
| The Gardon River downstream of the Pont du Gard | 45 min | A bit more active | 4 h - 5 h | Adults and youngsters who already have canoeing experience | A longer route through the gorges |
| The Ardèche Gorges | 1 h 30 | Easy till active depending on the route | 2 h - 2 days | Teenagers, sports enthusiasts, thrill-seekers | Passing under the Pont d’Arc and spectacular scenery |
Our personal tips for organising your trip
The best time for canoeing in the Vaucluse and the surrounding area is from May to September. In spring, the rivers are often slightly higher and it is less crowded, whilst July and August are the most pleasant months for swimming, but also the busiest. To make the most of the routes in summer, it is best to set off early in the morning.
As for clothing, it’s best to opt for light, quick-drying clothes, such as shorts and a T-shirt made from sports fabric. It’s also advisable to wear closed-toe shoes that are suitable for the water and stay securely on your feet. Avoid flip-flops, as they can easily be lost or get in the way when walking over rocks. Also remember to bring a cap, sunglasses with a cord and sun cream.
Booking is not always necessary in spring or September, especially for short descents on the Sorgue or the Gardon. In July and August, however, it is strongly recommended to book in advance, particularly for the most popular descents such as those at the Pont du Gard or the Gorges de l’Ardèche.
The minimum age varies depending on the river and the length of the trip. On the Sorgue or the easiest trips on the Gardon, children are often allowed to join from the age of 5 or 6. For the Cèze and the longer descents on the Gardon, a minimum age of 7 or 8 usually applies. Finally, the major descents in the Gorges de l’Ardèche are often restricted to children aged 7 to 12, depending on the rental companies and the water level.
In very hot weather, always take more water with you than you think you will need and plan regular breaks in the shade or for swimming. If the wind is strong, particularly on long, open stretches such as those in the Ardèche, the trip can be more tiring. In that case, it is better to choose a shorter descent or set off earlier in the day.
Great outings from our holiday rental
Whatever your level, there is bound to be a canoeing trip to suit your needs during your holiday. Families and beginners will enjoy the tranquillity of the Sorgue in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse or the gentle routes on the Gardon around the Pont du Gard. Those looking for a slightly more challenging outing can head to the Cèze or the longer stretches of the Gardon. Finally, lovers of thrills and sweeping landscapes will take home unforgettable memories of the Gorges de l’Ardèche.
Thanks to the ideal location of our holiday home close to the nature activities in the Vaucluse, all these rivers are easily accessible within a 1,5 hours drive. This means you can alternate between family outings, nature activities and real sporting adventures during your stay.
All you need to do is choose the descent that suits you best to discover the most beautiful landscapes of Provence from the river.
Practical information
- Information from the Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Tourist Office on canoe trips :
- Tourist information from Gard on canoeing trips down the Gardon :
- Information from the Cèze-Cévennes Tourist Office on canoe trips down the Cèze in Goudargues :
- Information from Gard Tourist Information on canoe trips down the Cèze in Saint-André-de-Roquepertuis :
- Information from the Ardèche Gorges Tourist Office on canoe trips :
Other sporting activities you might be interested in
Do take a look at the section of our blog on sporting and outdoor activities in Vaucluse. These include articles on: