Canoe trip in the gorges of the Upper Dordogne

Would you like to go canoeing and kayaking in a stunning, unusual setting ? Accompanied by a fantastic, friendly team, we invite you to discover the Roche le Peyroux Canoe-Kayak Base. In the Upper Dordogne Gorges, you'll paddle on a very calm, lake-like stretch between two dams. The scenery is breathtaking ; mossy, wooded cliffs plunge into the cool, clear waters of the Dordogne. You'll feel like you're in another world, lost yet completely safe in a unique environment! Shall we go?

The Gorges of the Upper Dordogne

We're at La Roche le Peyroux, near the magnificent Saint-Nazaire viewpoint, a breathtaking panorama, and the equally magical Gregeolles viewpoint. Here, the Dordogne is a wild paradise, a calm and agile river winding its way between the cliffs of the landscape and its confluence with the Diège. Just opposite is the Cantal region ; we're in border territory! The Upper Dordogne Gorges lie between Bort-les-Orgues and Argentat, but here they are steeper and easier to navigate.

Smile Kayak is the only canoe rental shop in the area, and they're located in a truly remarkable spot. A complete change of scenery is guaranteed ! They have everything you need for an extraordinary experience; come on a beautiful day to be blown away! We hadn't planned on canoeing, but the sign caught our eye from the road after we'd discovered the viewpoint: "What? We can paddle in this paradise?" And there we were, after a descent down a winding road that plunges into the water. The team is all smiles and good cheer, and they'll advise you based on your skill level and the size of your group to ensure you get the best equipment. You don't need to be a canoeing expert; there's nothing technical about this route, you just need strong arms to paddle.

During the season, games like treasure hunts are organized to spice up the boat trip. Sometimes there are even " concerts on the water." In addition to canoes and kayaks (the difference being the position in the boat; in a kayak you're more enclosed), you can rent pedal boats or paddleboards. Days with BBQs are available; everything is organized, you just need to book in advance.

Remember to bring closed-toe shoes and a backpack with a towel to carry your belongings. A cap or hat, sunglasses, and a swimsuit are essential in the summer! Sunscreen for children…

Things to do nearby

And to end the day? Here are some ideas for activities to do in the area.

• Head to Lake Triouzoune. You'll have a great time swimming, enjoying other water sports on the lake, or simply relaxing. Don't miss the Puy de Manzagol for a stunning panoramic view.
• You're not far from the interesting town of Bort-les-Orgues. You can go hiking there to see the Orgues rock formation that gave the town its name. Intriguing! You can also visit the Château de Val, a lovely spot to enjoy another body of water on the banks of the Dordogne. The Belvédère viewpoint at the Vie site is a nice, little-known spot for a nap or a picnic!

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