Ardeche
 

Has anyone done any of the canyoning trips in the Ardeche Gorge?

We are planning a few days in the area this summer and are looking for reputable companies and places to stay.

did a canoe in the Gorges de Ardeche - just rented one, went down the river and returned by van - the usual - gorgeous scenery - we actually tipped over so it's not always a simple float - we were not experienced canoeists and never sensed any danger.
Vallon Pont d'Arc is where we rented and seems to be the place - right at the start of the gorge.

If caves interest you, the magnificent Aven d'Orgnac is not far from the Ardèche river. The cavern is immense; you get down to it by an elevator, then walk down and down and down. Then climb up and up and up!

Thanks.

PalQ - where did you stay when in the area?

Underhill - you mentioned in another post that you rented a Renault Scenic before. Would you say it's big enough to fit two bikes in the back? (front wheel off?)

Both - do you think the area is worth spending 2 days?

Thanks again!

Jen

I think the Scenic might take bikes; the luggage area in the back is quite large, and it's possible that the back seats fold down.

I camped near Vallon with wife & 3 big kids in 2002. There are several companies hiring canoes/kayaks in Vallon, it's worth checking as some let you kayak for shorter or longer distances, they normally arrange to collect you at the end, but I believe you can even sleep out & carry on next day. There are one & two person canoes. But canoeing is not canyoning; we didn't try that.