France is criss-crossed with lots of amazing rivers and tributaries. Kayaking is a popular past-time along these waterways, and summer brings many canoe hire cabins along the most beautiful routes. If you are visiting the Charente, you can hire kayaks from Confolens Canoë (amongst others). Offering many kinds of vessel and a few different routes; kayaking on the Vienne River is a delightful activity while you’re in the area.
Kayaking from Confolens
At the Confolens canoe hire you can choose from single kayaks, double kayaks, 3 person canoes; as well as pedalos, or stand-up paddle boards. You can enjoy being close to the base, in the calm section near the Confolens bridges. Or you can choose one of 3 routes that take 2+ hours and cover different stretches of the river.
Booking is essential, especially if you are doing the Manot (3h) or Exideuil (6h) routes; as these require being dropped off at locations away from the base first.
Route from Confolens to St Germain de Confolens
The route between Confolens and St Germain de Confolens is a mix of calm ambling waters, weirs, and a couple of small rapids. Overhanging trees line the banks, herons fish on the banks, and birds of prey can been seen circling above.
The larger 2-person kayaks are definitely easier to manage when navigating the weirs; they are generally more stable, and have enough momentum to go smoothly down the weirs and rapids. The single kayaks are undeniably more fun – but perhaps more suited to experienced kayakers.
The route takes 1.5-2 hours to complete.
Lunch at Patavrap afterwards
The best part of the Confolens to St Germain route is that there is a guinguette at the end of the route. Patavrap in St Germain de Confolens is a delightful riverside establishment serving homemade burgers, pizzas, and delicious fries. Alongside beer, wine and other refreshments.
It’s a perfect way to end your excursion down the Vienne River. Once you are ready, you can call the Canoë base and they will pick you and your kayaks up and return to Confolens.
Season and hours
Confolens Canoë is only open July and August each year, Tuesday-Sunday 10h-19h. It’s best to book in advance to ensure you get the type of vessels you’d like, and the time spot that suits.
Great video! The canoe trips were amazing and the food and beer tasted so good at the end after a day on the river.
I haven’t managed to go kayaking yet but I definitely want to. This area looks perfect to try it out in and the scenery is so pretty!
This looks like such a fun day trip and the food looks incredible!
I have fond memories of kayaking in France. I used to do that during the summer holidays with my friends. It’s such a fun way to discover the surroundings.
Kayaking is such a peaceful way to see an area. Great that there’s support there to to be picked up and returned. Even better is that great lunch spot, you always feel better eating when you’ve burned it all off already!