Canoeing and Kayaking Holidays in Europe

Parcs, places, rivers and gorges where you can row your cares away!

Let’s get one thing cleared up straight away - in case you were (like we were once) afraid to ask. What’s the difference between a kayak and a canoe? We’re awfully glad you asked …

In a kayak, you’re seated and have a double-bladed paddle pulling the blade through the water on alternate sides to move forward. In a canoe, you usually kneel, and use a single-bladed paddle to propel the boat forward.

Got that? Good. What’s best? That’s really up to you.

Whether kayaking around Brittany’s gnarled and cove-studded coast, or exploring the wide, beautiful river estuaries, this northern France region is a great option for more confident kayakers.

The stunning Dordogne river snakes its way through some of France’s most sublime country, with its pretty sandstone villages, towering gorges and river beaches. Awarded a Unesco Biosphere Reserve for its outstanding setting and heritage, this is a wonderful spot to get on the water.

The Ardèche is most famous for the wild river that runs through its limestone terrain, carving out spectacular gorges en route. Action packed and adrenaline-fuelled or peaceful and placid - whatever’s on your holiday wishlist, you can’t miss a paddle under the magnificent Pont d’Arc, a natural limestone bridge that spans the river near the head of the gorge.

On parc canoeing/kayaking:

* GE019: Organised excursions in nearby creeks, with minibus pickup from parc

** WM011: Kayak excursions along the coast arranged by the parc

Canoe hire nearby: