Canoeing

Between lavender and cicadas, the Drôme is a class 2 river, with no portage and a steady current that limits effort: it’s ideal for canoeing, for beginners and experienced canoeists alike. Its flow, dependent on rainfall and snowmelt, and its rich flora and fauna make it a “free and natural” river, often described as one of the last wild torrential rivers in Europe.

Canoë Drôme: a simple, practical and car-free descent

We work with Canoë Drôme. The operation is simple and very comfortable during your vacations.

• The Canoë Drôme minibus will pick you up directly in front of the campsite and take you to their base in Saillans.
• Choose your canoeing route (10 km or 16 km) to suit you.
• There’s no need for a car on arrival: the descent ends directly below the campsite, at river level.
• Result: simple, practical, stress-free, you’re already “at home” at the end of the descent.

The Drôme offers a superb natural setting, with varied landscapes, beaches for swimming breaks and more rugged but accessible stretches.

Routes, conditions and organization of outings

• From age 6, provided you can swim
• Choice of routes: 10 km or 16 km
• Canoes 1, 2 or 3 places available
• Dogs allowed on board canoes (pets welcome)

The duration depends on your pace, with the possibility of taking time to swim, picnic and enjoy the scenery. Experience feedback highlights the beauty of the scenery, the peace and quiet compared with busier rivers, and the warm welcome from the Canoë Drôme team.

Opening times and shuttles

Outings take place every morning and afternoon, from the opening to the last day of September (depending on river flow conditions):

• July & August: approx. 3 shuttles a day
• April to June and September: 1 to 2 shuttles a day, adjusted according to traffic levels

The flow of the Drôme is highly dependent on rainfall and the season; in summer, it can become limiting for canoeing and sometimes requires you to leave the boat for a few meters, which explains why the routes are chosen on the wettest parts to remain pleasant to navigate.

How do I book a descent from the campsite?

How do I book from Gervanne Camping?

• Register on our notice board
• Payment/formalities directly at the Canoë Drôme base
• Special rates for Gervanne Camping customers

After the descent, Gervanne Camping’s river beach or swimming pool awaits you!

Canoë Drôme website: https: //canoe-drome.com/