The 9 places to make canoe-kayak in Normandy

Are you looking to mingle the discovery of a beautiful region and the sports sensations? Why not opt for canoe-kayak in Normandy?

Normandy is a coastal region full of history and has an interesting cultural heritage. This region of North-West France is not only distinguished by its green nature and its amazing landscapes. Today it is one of the most visited regions of the hexagon. And not only because it houses the legendary Mont-Saint-Michel . To visit this beautiful region, there are many outdoor activities. But canoe-kayak in Normandy is probably the best way to discover the natural landscapes of the area.

Sometimes sporty, sometimes quieter, this activity is ideal if you want to enjoy magnificent views, or observe nature. It will also allow you to make the full of strong sensations while you are fun. So, ready to discover the best plans to kayak in Normandy?

1. The Seine

The Seine is one of the longest French rivers, but above all the most famous. It takes spring in Burgundy, on the plateau of Côte-d’Or, crosses our capital, before throwing into the Channel. Also, the watercourse crosses notably Rouen, Troyes and Le Havre . In addition, it crosses the Norman region on its part.

In Normandy, it is known as Seine-Maritime, and its large bed allows many nautical activities. In addition to offering sumptuous landscapes, it is a challenge of the most interesting for the discerning kayakers. Thus, it is divided into different sections. A large part of its course is composed of calm water, but its rapids are as thrilling as it is fun. The bravest will even have the opportunity to go paddle at sea, to enjoy a magnificent maritime panorama.

2. The Bresle

Bresle is one of the many coastal rivers of Normandy. It originates in Abancourt, Oise, and crosses three departments. She then jumps into the Channel, near Tréport. Like its region, this small river is full of history. For a long time, it has been a natural border between the rival powers of the region. As a result, the banks of the bed have a rich cultural heritage, especially downstream.

During your kayaking tour on this unusual watercourse, you will have the opportunity to observe nature. But also to travel in time. You can discover the wonders of its history, while admiring a rich and unique fauna. You may also cross a few sea trouts and Atlantic salmon in the opposite direction. As you descend the river while enjoying the landscape.

3. Eure

With its 225 km long, the Eure is a tributary river of the Seine. She gave her name to one of the departments she passes through, and goes to Pacy-sur-Eure, Chartres and Louviers.

If you decide to face its rapids and its unique valley, you may even fall on a historical treasure. Indeed, Eure passes to the foot of the legendary Château d’Acquigny . This magnificent 16th century building is one of the most elegant castles in the region. Moreover, its gardens are as sumptuous as romantic.

4. L’Epte

The Epte is one of the tributaries of the Seine, and is born in Seine-Maritime. It is a river of 113 km along the region and separates it from Île-de-France. This atypical watercourse offers a sporting canoe-kayak course, with many faster and more enlivened passages.

However, the Epte crosses many Norman villages anchored in history, and your walk on its courses will be of the most interesting. You will be able to visit beautiful small towns. But in addition, this river will offer you a privileged encounter with the unique fauna and flora of the region.

5. La Touques

La Touques is one of the coastal rivers of the Normandy region, and originates in the northeast of the department of Orne. His ancient name, Algia, allowed to name the country of Auge, which he crossed. However, its etymological origins in the Middle Ages are estimated. The Touques is a river full of history, extending from the countryside of Alençon to Pont-l’Évêque.

During your walk on its fairly quiet courses, you can enjoy the landscape and admire the Norman flora and fauna. On your course, you may also make many meetings. Ducks, herons, trouts, pikes and perhaps even some salmon will certainly be your companions for this trip.

6. L’Orne

The Orne is the second largest watercourse in Normandy. Coastal fleet of 170 km whose bed is almost as wide as that of the Seine, the Orne obviously gave its name to the eponymous department. After crossing around 83 communes across the region, she goes into the Channel, to Ouistreham.

This offshore river offers nearly 40 km of descent to the discerning kayakers. You can choose routes ranging from 4 km to 28 km, in bright waters or quieter areas. Are you going with family or friends? It is obvious that you will find a trip to meet your expectations for kayaking in Normandy.

7. The Selune

Are you looking for a kayak trip under the sign of discovery and culture? So we advise you to sail on the Selune. This small coastal river in a very quiet bed will take you to discover its beautiful shores, from the Ardennes wood to Ducey. You can then opt for a guided tour and listen to the exciting history of this region. And this, while discovering an interesting little corner of greenery.

You could even make multiple encounters on your journey, between wild birds and fish with a thousand reflections. Let yourself be tempted by this true journey in time. And discover a region as captivating as fascinating.

8. The Risle

This beautiful river of Normandy flows into the Orne before crossing the Eure. And then to reach the Seine at the level of its estuary. This watercourse fills the area over 140 km, and offers green landscapes. During your kayaking tour in Normandy, quick water and strong sensations will be at the rendezvous. You will have to face the waves of this historic river, and meet all the challenges it presents to you.

With water, don’t hesitate to take the time to observe the wildlife around you: trouts, herons, pints, dragonflies... The descent of the Risle will be a pleasure for amateurs as for experienced kayakers. And the experience will only be more fun if you share it with family or friends!

9. The Channel

And yes! It is possible to kayak in Normandy and discover the most beautiful landscapes of the Channel, such as the Falaise d’Étretat, for example! Moreover, it is probably their best way to combine tourism and water sports.

However, the weather can make practice complicated or dangerous. So think about booking a sunny day to leave on the sea.

Rates and practical information

Rates

Prices for kayaking in Normandy can vary according to the clubs and activities offered:

• Rental of a canoe-kayak monoplace (two hours): between 10€ and 20€
• Rental of a canoe-kayak with several places (two hours): between 25€ and 30€
• Canoë-kayak monoplace (one day) for rent: between 30€ and 35€
• Canoe-kayak with several places (one day) for rent : between 45€ and 55€
• Descent accompanied in group: from 55€.

Practical information

Read the following information before planning a canoe-kayak tour in Normandy:

• In the middle of the season, think about book in advance. Indeed, clubs are often overbooked and you can wait several weeks.
• To kayak in Normandy, take an adequate outfit. Bath or light clothes, old tennis or water shoes, and hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
• If you opt for a canoe-kayak to several, it is better to place the most experienced or sporting person, at the rear.
• You can't kayak in Normandy if you can Don't know how to swimfor obvious reasons.
• In summer, do not forget your sun cream. Even if the sky is not entirely clear, UV rays can still attack your epidermis!