Booking your bivouac in the Ardèche gorges for a 2-day canoe trip

Are you preparing a 2-day Ardèche canoe trip with a night at a bivouac? The Gaud and Gournier bivouacs are the only places authorised for spending the night in the heart of the Gorges de l'Ardèche National Nature Reserve.

Booking the bivouac is compulsory during the tourist season. On this page, discover how to book your pitch, the rates, the opening periods and our tips for organising your 2-day canoe adventure.

How to book a bivouac in the Ardèche gorges?

To spend a night in the Ardèche gorges, you need to book your pitch directly with the bivouac manager.

The two accessible bivouacs are:

  • Gaud bivouac
  • Gournier bivouac

Booking is strongly recommended several weeks in advance during June, July and August.

Remember to book your bivouac before booking your canoe hire in the Ardèche to guarantee the availability of your stay.

Which bivouac to choose between Gaud and Gournier?

The Gaud bivouac

Set in the heart of the Ardèche gorges, the Gaud bivouac offers a quieter, wilder atmosphere.

Ideal for:

  • nature lovers
  • small groups
  • families looking for greater peace and quiet
bivouac_gaud
bivouac_gaud

The Gournier bivouac

The Gournier bivouac is the best known in the Ardèche gorges.

It has:

  • toilets
  • showers
  • catering areas in season
  • shaded areas

It's perfectly suited to a first 2-day canoe trip.

bivouac Gournier
bivouac Gournier

Book your bivouac

Canoeing the Ardèche over 2 days with a night at a bivouac

A 2-day canoe trip is the best way to discover the Ardèche gorges.

On the programme:

  • Passing under the Pont d'Arc
  • Paddling through the Nature Reserve
  • Swimming in the coves
  • A night under the stars
  • Watching the wildlife and the wild scenery

At Aventure Canoës, we offer routes suited to 2-day trips with all the equipment needed to transport your gear.

What do you need to bring for a night at a bivouac?

To make the most of your stay:

  • a lightweight tent
  • a sleeping bag
  • a sleeping mat
  • a head torch
  • a change of clothes
  • water and food
  • sun protection

Avoid overloading your boat so as to keep paddling comfortable. See our FAQ for more details.

FAQ: frequently asked questions about the Ardèche bivouacs

 

Can you camp freely in the Ardèche gorges?

No. Wild camping is prohibited in the Nature Reserve. Overnight stays are only permitted at the official Gaud and Gournier bivouacs.


How much does a night at a bivouac cost?

The price varies depending on the period and the age of the participants. The exact price is shown when you book.


Can you do the Ardèche over 2 days with children?

Yes, provided the children meet the minimum paddling conditions and can swim.
 

Are dogs allowed?

As dogs are prohibited in the Nature Reserve, they can't take part in trips with a bivouac.