Vienne

At the confluence of the Vonne and Clain rivers, Vivonne's canoeing and kayaking association promises great fun on the water! Rent canoes, kayaks or stand-up paddles from Les Pagayous. All equipment is provided. There are three itineraries to choose from (4, 7 or 13 km). You'll be transported upstream from the base, and then all you have to do is enjoy the ride through nature, at your own pace. A real treat on a hot day! And as an added bonus, take a quiz along the way to learn more about the local fauna, flora and heritage.

From April to September, the La Roche-Posay Tourist Office offers nature sports outings to discover the Anglin or Gartempe valleys. A minibus will take you to a place called "Rives" for a 10 km descent accompanied by a qualified guide. Would you like to sail on your own? Opt for the free canoe trips between Vicq-sur-Gartempe and La Roche-Posay (10 km). Another option is an accompanied introduction to stand-up paddling on the Creuse River, with a 5 km course. Meeting point at La Cale in La Roche-Posay.

At bridge level, it's not unusual to spot a few canoes below on the Anglin. Since 2010, Canoécolo has been supplying boats, vests, paddles and watertight canisters to get you out on the water. Discover this little corner of paradise and enjoy its enchanting valley. Stroll at your own pace, swim... what a pleasure! The trick is to get back to the starting point, but the river is calm and navigable in both directions. The small company also offers its services in La Roche-Posay, where you can discover the confluence of the Gartempe and Creuse rivers.

Come aboard and cruise the Vienne. For an hour, a half-day or a full day, accompanied or unaccompanied, take the time to let yourself be carried by the river and admire the surrounding landscapes. Several boat sizes are available, transport is provided, and all you have to do is paddle along and discover the treasures of nature. Several routes are available: discover Chauvigny, pass in front of the pretty château de Toufou or go as far as the Henri IV bridge in Châtellerault. Stand-up paddle rentals are also available.

Created in 2001, the Chauvigny Valdivienne Canoe Kayak Club offers initiation, improvement, competitions and leisure outings. Come and discover the Vienne river according to different formulas proposed (from 2 hours to one day) from Saint-Martin-la-Rivière, Cubord or the Civaux-Chauvigny circuit. In high season, take advantage of the courses to discover canoeing, kayaking and paddling but also of some night descents. Unforgettable moments in an enchanting setting!

Come aboard and cruise the Gartempe. For an hour, a half-day or a full day, take the time to let yourself be carried by the river and admire the surrounding scenery. You'll pass by Saint-Savin Abbey, a superb vantage point! You'll also see the Château de la Roche. Several sizes of boat are available, and transportation is provided, so all you have to do is paddle along and discover nature's treasures. Several routes are available. Stand-up paddles can also be hired.

For fun on the water, don't hesitate to visit the canoeing and kayaking base at Moussac. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, you can canoe down the Vienne, either upstream from Moussac via L'Isle-Jourdain, or downstream via Queaux. For the more sporty, you can combine the two! You'll be given advice and equipped with waterproof vests and canisters. Once your one- or three-seater boat is in the water, take time to observe, paddle quietly, enjoy the flora and fauna, picnic, swim... In short: enjoy! In a word: enjoy!

When the weather's nice and warm, why not take advantage of the Clain! Canoeing down the river is an opportunity to discover a different side of the surrounding area and of Poitiers, and to take time out to admire nature. Departing from Ligugé, Îlot Tison or Dissay, with friends or family, with or without children, don your life jacket, brandish your paddle, climb into your boat and off you go! It's great fun on the water! Other skiffs are available: paddle, unicorn or pink flamingo. Ready for adventure?