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Two-day canoe routes with overnight bivouac
Want to experience the Ardèche in a different way, truly taking your time?
A two-day canoe trip with an overnight bivouac is exactly what you need. Enjoy a fully immersive experience in the heart of the river and its wild landscapes.
This format lets you alternate between paddling, swimming breaks, relaxing on natural beaches, and an unforgettable night in nature, within the protected reserve.
A wild adventure, but not without comfort: two official bivouac sites await you along the river, fully equipped for a peaceful night outdoors.
Our two-day canoe trips with overnight bivouac
At Aventure Canoës, our two-day adventure is designed to offer the perfect balance between paddling, exploration, and relaxation.
- The route takes you through the most beautiful sections of the Ardèche Gorges, with an overnight stay at an official bivouac site in the heart of nature.
- Bivouac spots are limited, so booking is mandatory.
The Super Adventure – 31 km
Salavas → Sauze (overnight bivouac option)
Ideal for: adventurers • nature lovers • immersive experience
- Average duration: 2 days / 1 night
- Level: sporty
- Highlights: Ardèche gorges nature reserve • Natural beaches • Wild landscapes • Overnight bivouac
- From Salavas, the Charlemagne rapid sets the tone before passing under the iconic arch of the Pont d’Arc.
- The river then flows into the protected nature reserve: an overnight stay at the Gaud or Gournier bivouac marks the end of day one.
- On day two, you’ll pass La Toupine de Gournier, the Cathedral, and the Cirque de la Madeleine before reaching the Sauze landing beach.
- Over two days, the organisation is entirely flexible: swimming breaks, picnics on natural beaches, rest time, and moments of observation (bring your binoculars).
- The overnight bivouac extends the experience, letting you enjoy the river atmosphere at sunset and sunrise, far from any crowds.
Practical information
Schedule- Departure: 9:00 am to 2:30 pm (continuous)
- Return: between 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm on day 2 (depending on the season)
Level: suitable for people comfortable in the water
This trip requires appropriate equipment (meals, water, bivouac gear, sun protection).
⚠️ Important: this route includes an overnight stay at an official bivouac site and must comply with local regulations. Bivouac booking is mandatory!
The Maxi Adventure – 36 km
Sampzon → Sauze (overnight bivouac option)
Ideal for: adventurers • lovers of wide open spaces • gentle exploration
- Average duration: 2 days / 1 night
- Level: intermediate
- Highlights: Ardèche gorges • nature reserve • overnight bivouac
The route
The overnight bivouac creates a true break from everyday life : perfect for disconnecting and recharging in nature.
- From Sampzon, the trip begins with 4 canoe slides that set the tone right away.
- The route then joins Salavas and follows the same course as the 31 km trip: Charlemagne rapid, Pont d’Arc, nature reserve, and bivouac.
- On day two, continue through the rapids down to Sauze.
- Over two days, everyone moves at their own rhythm.
- Swimming breaks, rest stops on natural beaches, and moments of observation fit naturally into the journey.
The overnight bivouac creates a true break from everyday life : perfect for disconnecting and recharging in nature.
Practical information
ScheduleDeparture: 8:00 am – 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Return: late afternoon on day 2 (depending on the season)
Level: suitable for people comfortable in the water
⚠️ Important: the length of the route requires proper planning
Meals
Sufficient water supply
Bivouac equipment
Change of clothes
Overnight stay at an official bivouac site, subject to current regulations. Bivouac booking is mandatory!
Bivouac: what you need to know
Bivouac sites in the Ardèche Gorges must be booked in advance.
Available on-site:
- Toilets and showers
- Barbecue areas + charcoal
- Designated spaces to set up your equipment
What you need to bring:
- Camping equipment
- Sleeping gear
- Food
Bookings: Ardèche gorges management authority (by phone or online form).
Group tents (large shared tents) are available to reserve.
👉 Learn more about our partner accommodations around Vallon-Pont-d’Arc.
For the night before your trip and the one after, relax at one of our partner accommodations, selected for their shared values, exceptional settings, and smooth organisation.
Don’t forget anything : check out our complete guide to preparing your bivouac!
Who are two-day canoe trips for?
The bivouac format is especially suited if you:
- Want an immersive, off-the-grid experience
- Enjoy camping and sleeping under the stars
- Are travelling with adults or teenagers comfortable in nature
- Already have some canoeing experience and are confident outdoors
- Are looking for adventure and a full exploration of the gorges
It’s the ideal option for those who truly want to immerse themselves in the wild Ardèche and enjoy a timeless experience.
Why choose a two-day canoe trip?
Choosing a two-day trip allows you to:
- Paddle the full 36 km of the gorges
- Discover the most spectacular and preserved sections
- Enjoy an authentic bivouac experience by the river
- Experience sunset and sunrise in the heart of the gorges
- Share a unique moment, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life
This format is often chosen by adventure and nature lovers who want to dedicate a full weekend to a memorable experience in the Ardèche.
Tips to prepare for your canoe trip
To make the most of your two-day canoe trip, here are a few useful tips:
- Being able to swim is mandatory
- Bring water, food, and bivouac equipment (sleeping bag, lightweight tent)
- Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for water
- Protect yourself from the sun (hat, sunscreen)
- Be prepared for a fully self-sufficient experience
- Bring a waterproof bag to protect your belongings
The Aventure canoë team will assist you before departure, briefing you on the route, authorized bivouac areas, and safety instructions.
One day or two days: how to choose?
If you’re unsure between a one-day trip and a two-day adventure, ask yourself the right questions:
- Do you want a true adventure with an overnight stay in nature?
- Are you comfortable with independence and camping outdoors?
- Do you have the time and desire to paddle the entire length of the gorges?
- Are you looking for an immersive and truly different experience?
Practical information on schedules
- Two-day trips generally include:
- Departure in the morning between 8:00 and 9:00 am on day 1
- An overnight stay at a bivouac site in the gorges
- Return in the late afternoon between 4:00 and 5:00 pm on day 2
- Exact schedules and bivouac instructions are confirmed at the time of booking, depending on the season, water levels, and weather conditions.
- Authorized bivouac areas are explained during the pre-departure briefing.
Why choose Aventure canoë ?
A place designed for relaxation before and after your trip
- Our Salavas base is a true space to unwind
- A calm and pleasant natural setting
- Shaded parking, especially appreciated during hot summer days
- Direct access to the river with a riverside beach
- The freedom to take your time, before or after your trip
A local team, close to the river and its visitors
- Vincent and Manon live here, on the banks of the Ardèche, and know the river inside out. Their welcome is simple, genuine, and attentive
- A small, human-scale operation
- A friendly and relaxed atmosphere
- Punctual and caring shuttle drivers
- A team always available to answer your questions
Des services utiles, sans superflu
- Prise en main du canoë avant le départ
- Mise à disposition de combinaisons néoprène
- Boisson chaude offerte le matin
- Gilets pour chiens disponibles gratuitement
- Encadrement par moniteur diplômé sur demande
- Navettes régulières pour faciliter l’organisation
Un choix assumé de matériel français et local
- Des canoës conçus et fabriqués en Ardèche, adaptés aux conditions de la rivière
- Des équipements majoritairement fabriqués en France
- Un matériel fiable, entretenu régulièrement et pensé pour durer
Ce choix reflète notre volonté de proposer une expérience de qualité, en cohérence avec le territoire et l’esprit de l’Ardèche.
