Carved between granite and limestone, the Gorges du Chassezac form a wild 15-kilometre canyon between Ardèche and Lozère, at the foot of the famous Païolive forest. About 1h15 from Les Cabritas, it's a quieter alternative to the Gorges de l'Ardèche for lovers of unspoiled nature.
An unspoiled river, a pioneer in France
The Chassezac is a wild river that never runs dry, ideal for canoeing and kayaking. It was the first river in France to introduce navigation quotas for canoes and kayaks, a pioneering step that helps preserve this exceptional site while still allowing it to be explored responsibly.
Routes for all levels
Descents of 3, 7 or 10 kilometres are on offer, suited to all levels, including families with young children from age 5 on the shorter routes. The gorges lie in the commune of Berrias-et-Casteljau, 6 km from Les Vans and 15 km from Joyeuse, in a setting noticeably quieter than the Gorges de l'Ardèche in high season.
Good to know before you go
Because of the navigation quotas, it's best to book ahead in summer. Bring suitable water shoes. The outing pairs perfectly with a walk in the nearby Bois de Païolive, famous for its strange dolomitic rock formations.
Practical info from Les Cabritas
- Distance from Flaviac: about 1h15 by car
- Best time to go: May to September
- Great for: canoeing, swimming, unspoiled nature, families
Fancy discovering the Gorges du Chassezac from your cottage in Ardèche?
Les Cabritas welcomes you in Flaviac, at the heart of Ardèche, for a comfortable stay with a private pool, just a stone's throw from the region's most beautiful sites.
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