I was looking for an activity week for myself and my niece and nephew, aged 14 and 17... Anonymous, 2016 See more reviews
Itinerary Include flights Expand all Day 1 Fly to Lyon; transfer to Camping du Midi (approx. 2 hrs 30 mins). On arrival we transfer to our campsite by the banks of the famous Ardeche River, a stone's throw from the iconic rock arch - le Pont d'Arc. Day 2 Transfer to high ropes course for a day zipping through the treetops. We transfer to the ropes course to get kitted up ready to try out the zip lines and routes just below the forest canopy. The various courses include monkey bridges, suspension bridges and jungle swings. You are free to choose your difficulty level to either just enjoy the views and experience or up your thrill level. Safety equipment, including harness and helmet are all provided, and instruction is given on how to navigate and negotiate the various sections. Meals included: Breakfast Day 3 Day cycling through the dramatic vistas and villages of the region. The Ardeche is a hotbed of cycling and features regularly on the Tour de France. Not surprisingly therefore there are numerous routes we can take to explore the region. After picking up the bikes we set off for a day of what the French call 'cyclotourisme', with some well timed stops along the way for refreshments. We stick predominantly to the dedicated cycle paths leading across glorious countryside, some even using disused railway tunnels and viaducts. Meals included: Breakfast Day 4 Day trip to the prehistoric cave at Aven d'Orgnac; stops en route for great views over the Ardeche River and gorge; visit local vineyard for winetasting. We set off for Aven d'Orgnac, stopping along the way to enjoy the fantastic views on offer. We then visit the mediaeval village of Vallon Pont d'Arc at the head of the Ardeche Gorge, where we stop for an authentic French lunch. As the lunch is not included it is of course possible to opt to have lunch elsewhere in the village, however the leader will make a reservation for the group at a good quality restaurant, offering a traditional meal for around €25. After lunch we transfer to the cave itself. This immense grotto is understandably a huge attraction in the Ardeche area. It was created over a period of 100 million years, with the famous 'Leaning Tower of Pisa' stalagmite starting its rise from the cave floor 400,000 years ago. Visitors are treated to the mesmerizing rock formations and eerie atmosphere of the 'Salle Rouge' , 121m below the surface. Remember to bring slightly warmer clothes, as the temperature inside is about 11 degrees. After our visit we transfer back to the hotel. Meals included: Breakfast Day 5 The first day of the spectacular kayak down the Ardeche River; overnight bivouac. We begin the kayak descent, a two day adventure through the Ardeche Gorge. Starting by the legendary Pont D'Arc, a 60m wide and 54m high rock arch spanning the river, we set off after the initial briefing and instruction with time to get used to our manoeuvrable kayaks. As well as negotiating the many rapids along the way, we have time to swim and have lunch on the river’s edge. The standard kayak takes two people, though it is possible to have one to yourself depending on group size. This can only be arranged locally at the time. Buoyancy aides and helmets will be provided and are obligatory. We’ll arrive at the bivouac site in the late afternoon, where we’ll prepare our sleeping area and light the BBQ. The site is fully equipped with a shower block and toilets. Tents and inflatable beds are provided for those who require them – though a night under a vast canopy of stars is recommended. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 6 We kayak the final section of the river, finishing at a riverside bar in St. Martin, transfer to hotel. After sleeping out under the stars you’ll rise to the sounds of the outdoors. Breakfast will be prepared by the river team. Once dry sacks are loaded, and the camp is packed up we’ll set off for the final day of the descent, ready to face more rapids and stunning scenery. By early evening we’ll arrive at the bottom of the gorge to make our way, by road, back along the gorge. The drive back is also packed with new breathtaking views of the gorge unfolding with each turn of the road. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Day 7 Rock climbing and abseiling in the scenic limestone cliffs above the Chassezac Gorge. This region of France is hugely popular for climbers, but such is the array of suitable spots that overcrowding is never an issue. The towering limestone cliffs around the Ardeche and Chassezac Gorges provide huge variety, ensuring there is something for all levels, ages and abilities. After a short transfer to our chosen spot, we receive expert instruction and introduction to the various techniques and aspects of climbing, such as basic ropework, belaying, bouldering and sports climbs. Safety equipment, including harness and helmet are all provided. We transfer to the climbing area in the morning, stopping en route to allow the group to purchase food for a picnic. Meals included: Breakfast Day 8 Transfer to Lyon; fly to London. We transfer to the airport for the flight home. Meals included: Breakfast
Camping du Midi, Ardeche and simple riverside bivouac Many families travelling to the south of France choose campsites as they are a convenient and often less expensive option than hotels. Camping du Midi offers a friendly, smaller alternative to some of the large-scale campsites in the area. It also enjoys a wonderful location, just 450m from the impressive Pont d'Arc, the 60-metre rock arch that is the most recognisable feature of the Ardeche Gorge. The site offers a small number of chalets and we aim to use those offering two bedrooms, a small lounge area, kitchen, bathroom and toilet. Due to the small number of chalets and the popularity of the Ardeche region in summer, we recommend booking early. There are a few larger chalets, sleeping up to 6, which can be used for families of 4 and above, for a small supplement. There is a bar, games area for the children and of course the beach, available for use. , as well as a few restaurants also within walking distance. We spend one night camping as part of our river descent. This campsite is far simpler though does have a toilet and shower block.
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Reviewed August 2016 Maria Cook Trip: Ardeche Family Activity Week Ardeche Mixed Activity week I was looking for an activity week for myself and my niece and nephew, aged 14 and 17 respectively and this holiday delivered in spades! Firstly, what a beautiful region. The week started with zip lines and high ropes which the kids loved and I found terrifying, continued with a day's mountain biking (expected road biking but there you go), a day climbing and abseiling, and the highlight for me was the 2 day kayak down the gorge, spectacular, exciting and fun fun fun. Oh and a day relaxing taking in amazing caves followed by a spot of wine tasting. The leaders were brilliant, and always found a swim for us during the days out, either at the river or a lake, and some fab rock jumps. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The kayaking was stunning and the guides made it so enjoyable. Loved the overnight camp and star gazing. Also, the final part of the biking down the hill into Balazuc took our breath away, you have to see the place to appreciate it. What did you think of your group leader? Nat was essentially the main leader, ably assisted by different combos of Shay, Ollie and Jimmy, and they were all absolutely brilliant. Their sense of fun, naturally underpinned by responsibility and safety, was infectious and made the trip for us. Loads of personal touches, jokes and a very helpful attitude. All the guys encouraged us to do things we might not have done, especially me, as I'm a bit afraid of heights, but I did my first abseil thanks to Ollie and loved it. The guys were very experienced and knew the area really well. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? You do need to be reasonably fit for this holiday. Most active sporty teenagers will love it. Expect to be up and out early every day, a challenge for some teenagers (and adults)! Is there anything else you would like to add? The hotel is traditional and basic, which I liked and with very friendly staff, it also has a great restaurant with lovely views over the hills, the pizzas from their pizza oven were fabulous, we ate there several nights. The cocktail bar in town is fun for a change and the drinks are excellent!
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