Water sports and leisure activities Poitou-Charentes

Just the bridge crossed and you'll only want to: take your bicycle to the beach. What if this year you decide to test a new activity? Finish swimming, place at the stand-up paddle! This sport consists of standing up on a large board with a paddle. The advantage is that you can make walks or hikes, simple activities that are made on a quiet water. Le Petit Futé recommends you come to this school, open since 2010. You will be aware of Maxime, holder of the Professional Patent of Sports Educator in Surfing, who will make you discover this activity by adapting to your level and providing valuable advice. It is possible to rent padle stands on the Gollandières beach and to exercise freely or enjoy introductory and refresher courses to enjoy the waves.

The Charente Sailing School gives children and adults alike a taste of the joys of sailing on the Saint-Yrieix lake. You can rent catamarans, windsurfers, canoes and mountain bikes by the hour or half-day. Introductory and advanced courses are available on reservation. Finally, around the base, you can take advantage of the many activities available: jogging and mountain bike tracks, playgrounds, handball, five-a-side soccer... Of course, you can also swim in the lake!

The XXL aquatic center offers all the facilities that budding and experienced swimmers dream of! Surrounded by greenery and bathed in natural light, it invites its visitors to challenge themselves physically in its 50-meter Olympic pool with 8 water lines, to push back the limits of depth in its diving pit, and to perfect their skills in a 25-meter learning pool. Aquagym classes, swimming lessons and other aquatic activities are offered in the latter. Outdoor pools and a balneo area complete the offer.

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.

Close to Angoulême, this marina is the ideal setting for a waterside break, and offers a variety of activities: guinguette, departure point for river excursions, boat hire without a licence, canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, stand-up paddles, bicycles.

Take a cruise on La Reine Margot. On the Charente River from Angoulême, La Reine Margot offers summer theme cruises or lunch and dinner cruises. Departing from the port of l'Houmeau, you'll discover a route through the locks at the gateway to the city, with unusual views of the city (including the Nil district and the comic strip museum) and a unique approach to the biodiversity of the wild banks of the Charente. Cruises last from 1h30 to 5h (with meals on board).

The port has existed since the ^16th century, exporting cereals until the early 1970s. However, the construction of silos at La Pallice and restrictions on the tonnage of ships entering Marans condemned this activity. Lumber imports from the North continued until the 1990s. Now a marina, Marans has 180 berths and 10 visitor berths. Sailors benefit from a host of services: free toilets and showers 24 hours a day, drinking water and electricity on the pontoons, wifi. Above all, shops are close at hand.

Known for its oyster industry and its close ties with Île Madame, Port-des-Barques is also a popular spot for yachtsmen. But to be in with a chance of a berth, you have to join a waiting list. Allocated according to availability, the mooring is subject to a decree of occupation of the public maritime domain, valid for ten years and renewed at the request of the concession-holder. A shuttle service is available every day in season, and a port agent is on hand every weekend.

While the island of Oleron is famous for its fine sandy beaches, it also harbors another treasure: marshes that can be visited to the silent rhythm of canoes. To discover this activity, head for the Perrotine channel. Canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddling are the best ways to discover this unspoilt natural site. With only the sound of your paddle plunging into the water and the rhythm of the tide, you'll spot many birds and animals. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the environment.

This catamaran didn't choose its name by chance. More than just a simple iodized trip, Benoît offers a little dream to all those who want to take a trip on the ocean. Originally from La Couarde, Benoît naturally came back to the island to moor his boat. You'll need to visit the charming port of St Martin to meet him and take advantage of one of the outings on offer. Of course, to get the most out of sailing, it's best to take a day trip. That way, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy life on the catamaran and make the trip to Fort Boyard, before enjoying a delicious stopover on the Ile d'Aix. Benoît will even give you time for lunch before setting off again for the Ile de Ré. Half-day trips are also available. The catamaran will take you along the coast of Ré to discover the Fier d'Ars, the Trousse Chemise beach before a pleasant swim at the banc du bûcheron. Two discovery outings are also available, ideal for enjoying the comfort of the boat and Benoît's knowledge. The boat can even be privatized for special events.

Kayak doors are located on an arm of the Charente. To enjoy and rent a boat, call Claude Harter, President of the Youth Circle, Canoe Section. He will be happy to guide you in your water.

Overlooking Lake Lavaud, beach of fine sand whose swimming is monitored in summer.

Take the whole year from the dock 10 of the minimum. An experienced skipper takes you to the sun at its zenith or in the evening to admire his sunset on the ocean. A 2-hour walk.

An island territory, Ré attracts swimmers and surfers alike. If you love the sport or would like to discover it, come and visit our surf school, the only one to be accredited by the French Surfing Federation! Everyone is welcome, from amateurs to seasoned surfers. 2 sites: one on the Gros Jonc beach and the other on the Lizay beach offer excellent surfing conditions. You can opt for private lessons or a course to learn how to straighten up, learn safety rules and catch waves.

This association offers everyone the chance to discover the joys of sailing at one of its 3 nautical bases: La Flotte, close to the village, Rivedoux, on the south beach, and Saint-Martin, on the Plage de la Cible. Hundreds of sailors (aged 5 and over) take advantage of this unique venue for free sailing. Surfboards, paddleboards and catamarans are available for hire, so all you have to do is get on board! Certified as a "French Sailing School", the club offers a wide range of modern equipment.

After a recent fire, this family-run club has appealed for donations to keep it going. Open from March onwards, it is frequented by all water sports enthusiasts. It has the advantage of being sheltered by the island of Oleron, and is open to all, from children making their first discovery of the marine environment, to experienced adults perfecting their skills, on a wide range of equipment: catamaran, windsurf, paddle, kayak...

In the commune of La Tremblade, the Centre Nautique Charline Picon offers a unique sailing experience. With a vast, sheltered stretch of water facing the Ile d'Oléron, visitors can enjoy sailing in complete safety, whatever their level. The center offers courses, private lessons and rentals of Optimist, catamaran, windsurf, stand-up paddle, kayak and WingFoil. The center's website, basenautique.fr, also offers more information on the activities on offer.

Port-des-Barques is a charming town on the Charente coast. For water sports enthusiasts, the Club Nautique des Fontaines de Port-des-Barques offers sailing activities. The town also offers a variety of associations for leisure and cultural activities. Sports enthusiasts can join the Entente Sportive Port Barquaise for soccer, the Association Bouliste "Les Crabes" for pétanque, or the Tennis Club Moëze Port des Barques. For arts and culture enthusiasts, there's the Bibliothèque Municipale and the Ecomusée de la presqu'ile. Computer enthusiasts can join the Club Informatique. Finally, for meetings and exchanges, there's the Comité de Jumelage, the association La Belle Epoque, and the Comité des Fêtes de l'Estuaire. Port-des-Barques offers a wide range of leisure activities to suit all tastes.

To cool off, you can take a stroll near the peaceful waters of the Miosson river, or go for a swim in the pool at the intercommunal aquatic center. The open-air pool is permanently heated to 29°C. There's also a waterslide for younger children, under the watchful eye of lifeguards. For the little ones, the paddling pool is ideal for splashing about. To complete the picture, there's a relaxation area with greenery, games and a terrace with a gazebo. A place to have fun with family and friends!

Starting from the old Thouars abattoir, there are 2 routes: upstream to the chaussée du Château (2.5 km); downstream to the Ursulines meadow (1.2 km). Sailing on the wild, lush Thouet river offers a different view of the Deux-Sèvres, a blend of nature and heritage. A visit to the Château des Ducs de la Trémoïlle is a must! Canoes, kayaks, paddles and pedal boats are available for hire, solo or with the family. Jackets, paddles and watertight canisters are supplied. Please note that boat reservations are mandatory. Ahoy!

For paddling enthusiasts, experienced sportsmen and quiet explorers, this is the ideal club. Rentals are available by the hour, by the day or for two- to four-day trips/bivouacs. The usual boating area stretches from the base to the Saint-Yrieix lake, a 4 km stretch of waterways where you can discover the flora and fauna of the Charente and Trouve rivers. Last but not least, you can try your hand at stand-up paddling and discover the banks of the river like a tightrope walker. Initiations are supervised by federal instructors.

The Gâtinéo aquatic center includes four pools, adapted to everyone's activities: the sports pool, the leisure pool, the paddling pool and the giant slide's reception pool. From prenatal gymnastics to various aquagym techniques and swimming lessons, Gâtinéo offers a dozen aquatic activities. These activities are practiced under the responsibility of the lifeguards of the Community of Communes of Parthenay Gatine. Adapted to each public, many beaches are available around the pools.

This itinerant surf school - open from April to December - welcomes all those who want to enjoy surfing. Welcoming children from 6 years old, Surf'in Ré offers both to discover this sport, but also to improve by benefiting from personalized advice. Antoine, Johan and Nicolas are real enthusiasts who will share their experiences with you with the use of adapted boards and suits. Several options are available with private or group lessons and two surfing areas are available: the northern and southern beaches of Ile de Ré. The advantage is to be able to enjoy the best spot of the day to fully enjoy the moment! They will pick you up with their truck, in very small groups, and you will spend the afternoon together combining theory and practice.

A cool, sporty address offering a wide range of family activities around its lake. Playgrounds, fitness trails, picnics, fishing and mountain bike trails are available all year round. In season, you can hire canoes, kayaks, paddles, pedal boats, mountain bikes, tree climbing, inflatables and archery. Climbing is also available in Aigonnay and Thorigné, at the former Cinq Coux quarry (15 min. by bike).

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.

Canoe and kayak rental, but also stand up paddles and pedal boats. The club offers walks and circuits from 30 minutes to 3 hours on the water for the more adventurous.

A merry band, this association for the defense and protection of nature! In the land of the European otter and the grey heron, a host of guided outings are organized in Natura 2000 protected areas. Observe the microscopic world that surrounds us! You can also hire a light boat, on your own or with a guide, to paddle down the tranquil Argenton river. Nature's treasures and heritage are yours to discover.

Numerous sporting activities at the Cherveux lake. Wood Wakepark rents out paddles and houses THE waterski lift of the 79. Beginners and experts alike can wakeboard from the pontoon, pulled by a cable.

Take to the heights with the accrobranche courses at Accros de Cherveux. Extra the 180 m zip line or those that fly over the lake!

Another choice: a laser game in the middle of the forest on a 2,000 m² plot, accessible from age 7.

Departure is from Place des Poulies in Saint-Loup-Lamairé. By pedal boat or canoe, it's an opportunity to discover the Gâtine in a different way, as seen from the lovely Thouet. It's a charming and refreshing way to enjoy the region's heritage, including a magnificent panorama of the Château de Saint-Loup. Bookings can be made at the tourist office. 6 canoes (3 pers.), 4 pedal boats (5 pers.) and 3 rosalies (3-4 pers.). Low prices for great experiences !

Dedicated to school activities, the Lidon is open to the public for 6 weeks in summer. Access to the initiation basin and the wild marsh is free. Kayaks and canoes can be rented directly from the site at low cost for up to 3 hours (rates according to family income). There are also signposted trails to help you discover the local flora and fauna. Information on niortagglo.fr, base nautique du Lidon.

Want to bask in the sun or cool off in the water? On the banks of the Vienne river, the Queaux beach is a real place of relaxation. On site, there are many activities: games for children, fishing, bowling, miniature golf, volleyball, ping-pong, paddling pool... Swimming is supervised in July and August, in the afternoons. In addition to the picnic area, on the restaurant side, there is also the Guinguette du Renard, open every day in summer (2:30-8:30 pm). The beach comes alive with its festival in summer, every Friday evening with a free concert.

In fine weather, what could be more pleasant than to enjoy the cool waters of the Creuse? The setting invites you to relax and picnic on the riverbank: majestic trees cast the right shade for lounging. The leisure area offers games for young and old alike (pétanque, canoe hire...). Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the natural riches of the river. Great fun for all!

The river Clain flows peacefully through Saint-Benoît, a town where life is good. A boat ride on the river is one of the must-do activities of the summer season. Whether as a duo, with family or friends, this walk in the heart of this green setting will bring a feeling of serenity to all. Relaxation and tranquility are on the agenda. The Mon Repos port offers five boats for rent that can accommodate five people.

On the banks of the Charente, Saint-Macoux offers a very pleasant leisure center for a family refreshment. The little ones will be delighted to slide down the water slide and the parents will be reassured to know that they are safe because in July and August, the lifeguards are watching over them. Fishing (except in summer), children's games, zip line, petanque area, the Marais leisure center promises good moments of relaxation. You can eat at the restaurant of the Marais.

The Lathus outdoor center offers a wide range of activities: kayaking, stand-up paddle, archery, mountain biking, caving, rock climbing, Accro'Lathus, tree climbing, circus, horse riding, Disc'Lathus, hiking, Tèrra Aventura, educational farm... In summer, activities (booking required) are organized every day by qualified activity leaders. Numerous accommodation options are available on site for groups. Don't miss the Les Improbables festival on Ascension Day.

You'll enjoy a lush green setting and a host of facilities, including picnic tables, playgrounds and signposted footpaths. Swimming is supervised all summer long, and you can take advantage of the activities (beach handball, etc.) and go boating: paddles, canoes and pedal boats are available for hire. You can pitch your tent at Flower Camping Côté Lac (3 stars). The Côté Plage bar-snack-restaurant welcomes you all year round.

Wade or pretend you're an Olympic champion in this beautiful pool. Take advantage of the indoor facilities: a counter-current river, water jets and even a waterfall. And, for those who are not so cold, swim from April to October in the Nordic pool outside, but in water that is always 27°C! The aquatic center will also seduce you with its fitness room, sauna and hammam. It also offers aquabike and aquagym classes... as well as a time slot for baby swimmers. A real pleasure for children and adults alike!

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.

Located in the center of the village, in the arms of the river Clain, the Pont Creusé lake and leisure area offers a refreshing break. The 6-hectare site, part of which is shaded, is ideal for resting, fishing, walking, playing pétanque, ping-pong, volleyball... Children's games and a few teepees provide fun for young and old alike. It's also an ideal place to start a hike. A picnic area and Le Martin Pêcheur restaurant (with its terrace overlooking the water) overlook the reservoir.

Water sports aren't just for the sea! On Lac de Moncontour, you'll discover the pleasures of gliding, towed by a cable using an environmentally-friendly electric-powered system. Kneeling first on a kneeboard to get your bearings, you'll then take off standing on a wakeboard to cover the 535 m at 30 km/h. For the more experienced (and adventurous), take to the ramps to perform tricks. Crazy sensations for all levels.

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.

The lake is surrounded by the Dive river and the Fontou stream, with its pretty spring. The estate extends over 22 hectares, including an 8-hectare pond, and hosts a wide range of outdoor activities. The site is freely accessible all year round, so you can picnic, fish (with a river fishing card), work out on the outdoor fitness trail, solve Tèrra Aventura's "L'Odyssée de la Grand'Goule" riddle, enjoy the playground or simply relax by the water and appreciate the calm and beauty of this place.

The large pool of this open-air pool has a T-shape and stretches for 25 meters. It has a large slide and water jets. A paddling pool for the little ones completes the installation. Numerous activities are offered throughout the summer with parties, swimming lessons, aquagym... A large grassy area allows you to rest and dry out quietly in the sun. There are also many games: trampoline, volleyball court, mini-football, badminton, ping-pong, swing, games for children... A real pleasure for everyone!

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.

Speed, glide and water are the winning trio for guaranteed thrills. Thanks to Watersports, on the Vienne river, you can experiment with towed buoys, with family or friends, for 2 to 8 people. Hang on, here we go. Lying down or sitting up, smiles and giggles guaranteed! Our teams welcome and guide you. For a fun and refreshing time on your own, you can also try your hand at water skiing or wakeboarding (with a board), always towed by a motorboat. Children as young as 4 can try their hand.

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!