A canoe trip down the river is the highlight of any holiday in the Dordogne Valley. Glide past the region’s most glorious sites and treat the kiddies to some unforgettable holiday memories.
If you’re a first timer or planning to take the kids in your canoe, you’d be better off sticking to a half-day option. Routes like Gluges or Saint-Sozy to Pinsac or Argentat to Brivezac offer tons of fantastic views and you shouldn’t be left with any swollen muscles at the end.
If you’re an experienced rower or the kids are old enough to go it alone, why not push the boat out and go for a longer stretch. Argentat to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne will take you through wooded hills and down small but fun rapids where as Vayrac to Pinsac will take you past gorgeous castles and towering limestone cliffs.
But not to panic, there are always lots of places to pull over for a picnic, a quick dip or a snooze in the sun. Most rentals have to 2 to 4-seater canoes so the whole family can jump into one but it’s important to book beforehand. A closed plastic box is usually provided to stop your sandwiches from getting soggy and your camera splashed by over-excited children.
Please note that canoeing is not allowed for children under 7 and non-swimmers.
