Contact

Descente en canoë des Gorges de l'Hérault

+33 4 67 57 30 25

You can contact us for phone or in complete the registration bellow, we will answer you as soon as possible

 

Our rental shop is open every day from April to September. Booking recommended.

Canoë Kayapuna

12 avenue St Benoît d’Aniane
34 150 St Guilhem-le-Désert

Opening hours

Mon
9:30-19:00
Tue
9:30-19:00
Wed
9:30-19:00
Thu
9:30-19:00
Fri
9:30-19:00
Sat
9:30-19:00
Sun
9:30-19:00

DIRECTION

PLAN

canoe-kayapuna

12 av St Benoît d’Aniane
34150 St Guilhem-le-Désert


+33 4 67 57 30 25

contact@canoe-kayapuna.com

plan site

DIRECTIONS

itineraire vers canoe kayapuna

IF YOU COME FROM BÉZIERS, AGDE, VIAS OR VALRAS :

Take the A75 motorway (for free) from Pézenas or Béziers and drive in the direction of Lodève/Millau
At the junction, take the A750/E11 towards Montpellier, then the exit n° 59 towards Gignac.

At the roundabout, take the first exit to Gignac – center. Cross the village and follow the signs to Aniane
After having crossed Aniane, follow the signs to Saint Guilhem le Désert for 7km approximately.

Our canoe rental shop is located at the entrance of the village of Saint Guilhem le Désert on your left, and you can park for free in our private parking lot, on your right (tell the attendant that you are customers at "Canoë Kayapuna”).


ST-GUILHEM-LE DESERT
ST-GUILHEM-LE DESERT

THE VALLEY OF LEGENDS...

DISCOVER

itineraire vers canoe kayapuna

IF YOUR COME FROM MONTPELLIER, LA GRANDE MOTTE OR PALAVAS :

Take the A750 motorway (for free) towards Millau/Lodève for 15km.

Take the exit n°60 towards Gignac/Aniane/Saint Guilhem le Désert. Cross the village of Gignac and follow the signs to Aniane.

After having crossed Aniane, follow the signs to Saint Guilhem le Désert for 7km approximately. Our canoe rental shop is located at the entrance of the village of Saint Guilhem le Désert on your left, and you can park for free in our private parking lot, on your right (tell the attendant that you are customers at "Canoë Kayapuna”).


itineraire vers canoe kayapuna

IF YOU COME BY BUS FROM MONTPELLIER :

The bus line number 308 is linking St Guilhem and Montpellier. 

We can pick you up for free at St Guilhem and we drive you to the start of the trail. We also bring you back at the end of the day at St Guilhem.


You don't find your answer ?

DESCENTE EN CANOË

DANS LES GORGES DE L'HÉRAULT

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FIND THE ANSWER OF YOUR QUESTIONS

Yes, you must be able to swim 25m and put your head under water.
In summer, a bathing suit, shorts, a t-shirt and closed shoes are enough. In spring and autumn, we recommend that you take a windbreaker and some spare clothes.
Yes of course, provided that : They are aged 6 or above.
They can swim 25m.
They are able to put their head under water.
Yes, you can bring some food with you. You will find lots of small wild beaches where you will be able to have a picnic or relax.
Yes, we have a free parking lot for our customers to use just across the street from the rental shop. The parking lot is on your right at the entrance of the village and the rental shop is on the opposite side.
No, for safety reason, mothers-to-be cannot go onboard the boats.
Yes, we recommend that you book (it is no obligation) so that you can chose your departure time as well as the kind of boat you want Kayak 1 person
Canoe 2 people
Canoe 3 people
Canoe 4 people
Yes, dogs are allowed on board, in the middle seat (for free).
Yes, provided that you have a fishing license.
Descente en canoë des Gorges de l'Hérault

YOU CAN'T FIND THE ANSWER OF YOUR QUESTION ?

If you could not find an answer on our website, feel free to write us a message
and we will answer as quickly as possible.

Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert

village de st guilhem le desert

SAINT-GUILHEM-LE-DÉSERT

DISCOVER ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES IN FRANCE

We are located in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, which is an exceptional site that has been ranked among the most beautiful villages in France and registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. With more than 800.000 visitors each year, this medieval village is a must see in the region Languedoc Roussillon.

St Guilhem

An inevitable place

If you go for a walk through the village, you will love the sight of the magnificent stone houses built along a little stream called the VERDUS. Thanks to this stream, numerous water fountains could be built all along the pretty paved alleyways. The biggest one can be found in the middle of the village square, right next to the splendid and elegant plane tree that has been here since 1855.

The Saint Sauveur de Gellone Abbey is also on the village square. It is a legendary stop-off for pilgrims of the St James' Way to Santiago de Compostela. Bearing witness to the grandeur of a bygone past, this abbey is a jewel of the beginnings of Romanesque art in the South of France. You will have the opportunity to discover numerous historical monuments: Pont du Diable, the Saint Sauveur de Gellone Abbey and its cloister…

vue de st guilhem

You will be in the heart of the garigue (vegetation typical of southern France) to discover the Gorges of Hérault on your canoe, and then take your time to visit the picturesque village of Saint Guilhem le Désert. In order for you to do so, we are happy to offer you a free parking spot in our private parking lot (within the limit of available spots).Only at KAYAPUNA !

village st guilhemSAINT GUILHEM LE DESERT'S HISTORY

Ater his last battle in Barcelona in 803, Charlemagne’s cousin decided to lay down the arms. He was looking for an isolated and deserted place, and found it thanks to his lifelong friend, Benoît d’Aniane.
This is how Guilhem, earl of Toulouse and Duke of Aquitaine, came to Saint Guilhem le Désert and gave some of his goods to the Gellone Abbey.

visite tourisme a st guilhem

Thanks its extension, the first houses were built as well. Snuggling between the river and the mountains, their architecture resembles the architecture of the Abbey with their Romanesque vaults and the twin windows, separated by columns of stone.

village de st guilhem

A lot of craftsmen (coopers, turners) then settled down around the village square, which became the socio-economical center.
The remaining of the “giant’s castle” (Château du Géant) bears witness of the defensive system that had been set up to watch the roads that led to the village as well as the Hérault’s riversides.
The master architect who designed the Abbey also built a bridge to connect Aniane and Saint Guilhem le Désert in the 11th century. It is one of the oldest Romanesque bridges in France and it bears the name “Pont du Diable” (Devil’s Bridge) to this day. It is as well registered as World Heritage Site by UNESCO as part of the St James' Way to Santiago de Compostela.

Practical guidance

INFOS

CANOE KAYAPUNA

OPENING HOURS

Do not forget to come 30 minutes before the start of your trail !

In may, june and september:

Reception of Saint Guilhem le Désert:

7/7 from 9:30 a.m to 7 p.m (by reservation)

Departures wild trail : 11 a.m, 12 p.m et 2 p.m

Departures discovery trail : Contact us

Subject to change with weather or availability.


In july and august :

Reception of Saint Guilhem le Désert:

7/7 from 9:30 a.m to 7 p.m

Departures wild trail : 10 a.m, 11 a.m, 12 p.m et 2 p.m

Departures discovery trail : 10:30 a.m, 11:30 a.m, 12:30 p.m and from 2:30 p.m to 5:30 p.m non stop

Subject to change with weather or availability.

Both trails are accessible to everyone

Including beginners, provided that :

 They can swim 25m and put their head under water (French Ministerial Order from the 4th of May 1995)
 They are aged 6 or above
 They are physically fit

For safety reason, mothers-to-be cannot go onboard the boats.


Good to know :

At your convenience and according to your wishes, you can either take half a day, the whole day, or 2 days to make the tour.


Payment methods

We accept, cards, cash and "chèques vacances". We do not accept cheque.

moyens de paiement


Cancellation

Cancellation can be made by phone.

A cloudy weather is not a cancellation clause neither a refund one.

CANOE KAYAPUNA can cancel a start for safety reasons. This cancellation will lead to a immediate refund or a modification of your trail date.

6ans minimum

To be 6 or above

savoir nager

Be able to swim 25m

bonne condition physique

Be physically fit

respect nature

Respect the nature

ADVICES

Practical advices

DISCOVER ALL THE PRACTICAL ADVICES

 Sun protection and protective clothing (sunglasses, cap or hat, sunscreen) and closed shoes (waterproof footwear, old sneakers…)
  Water (at least 1L per person)
 Some food, if you wish to have lunch along the trail
Bath towel
Spare clothes to put at the arrival

We recommend that you do not take anything that could be damaged by the water with you (such as cameras, camcorders…). We do not take responsibility for sealing of the containers.

Base canoë des Gorges de l'Hérault

NOTICE

Canoe trails prices

DISCOVER OUR CANOE RETAIL PRICES

PRICES

THE WILD TRAILS

THE LONG TRAIL – 12KM

KAYAK
1 Person
29€
2 PERSON CANOE
2 Person
48€
3 PERSON CANOE
3 Person (180kg max)
69€
2 PERSON CANOE FAMILY
with 1 Child (-12 y.o)
42€
3 PERSON CANOE FAMILY
with 1 or 2 Child (-12 y.o)
56€
4 PERSON CANOE FAMILY
2 Adt. + 2 Child (-10 y.o)
66€

circuit decouverte4kmen

THE SHORT TRAIL – 4KM

KAYAK
1 Person
18€
2 PERSON CANOE
2 Person
28€
3 PERSON CANOE
3 Person (180kg max)
39€
3 PERSON CANOE FAMILY
with 1 or 2 Child (-12 y.o)
34€
4 PERSON CANOE FAMILY
2 Adt.+2 Child (-10 y.o)
39€

Our rates include

canoë

Canoe renting

 les pagaies

Paddles

GILET DE SAUVETAGE

Life jackets

NAVETTE GRATUITE

Bus transportation

NAVETTE GRATUITE

Waterproof container

NAVETTE GRATUITE

The smile of the team Kayapuna

Groups

photo50

GROUPS RATES

GROUPS OF 10 AND MORE

You are a group of at least 10 people and you would like to arrange a canoe tour?
Whether you are a group of friends, of students, community center, if you want to organize a company seminar etc. Feel free to contact us to learn more about our group rates.

Trails

THE WILD TRAIL

DISTANCE

Distance Parcours

12 KM

DURATION

urgent (1)4H approximately

counting a picnic

& bathing break

Possibility to enjoy the whole day

Return of equipement before 6 p.m. maximum

DESCRIPTION

Here lies the “hidden valley”, considered as the secret Gorges of Hérault.

A site only accessible by canoe / kayak
A water warmer than the sea with many beaches to be able to stop
A wild and preserved landscape
Class 1 river with passage to class 2 – several rapids and watercourses will run along this course – possibility of capsizing your boat
One-way shuttle – your vehicle is waiting for you at the end of the trail

CONDITIONS

ACCESSIBLE TO ALL EVEN TO BEGINNERS, ONLY CONDITIONS :

Know how to swim 25 meters and know to put your head under water
(Ministerial decree of May 4, 1995)

Be 6 years old minimum

Be in good physical condition

For reasons of sécurity, mothers-to-be cannot board the boats.

INCLUDED

Free parking
Safety jacket
Waterproof containers (1 per boat)
As the tightness of the containers is not guaranteed, we advise you to bring a waterproof bag for your personal effects. (car key, phone, etc.)
Helmet for children under 12 years old
Shuttle transport to the starting point
Boat and paddle 🙂

PRACTICAL ADVICE

TO REMEMBER:

Mask for shuttle transport

Sun protection (glasses, cap or hat, sunscreen)

Closed shoes (water shoes, trainers…)

Water (minimum 1 liter per person)

Picnic if you want to take your lunch break during the descent

Towel

change of clothes for arrival

As the tightness of the containers is not guaranteed, we advise you to bring a waterproof bag for your personal effects (car key, telephone, etc.)

circuit decouverte4kmen

THE DISCOVERY TRAIL

DISTANCE

Distance Parcours

4 KM

DURATION

urgent (1)1H approximately

Possibility to enjoy the whole day

Return of equipement before 6 p.m. maximum

DESCRIPTION

This small 4km circuit is ideal for discover the activity of canoeing in the Gorges de l’Hérault.
During the summer period water levels are low, on your way back you may need to get out of the boat to slide the canoe.
In order to handle the boat and walk through the water, it is mandatory to wear closed shoes.

A round trip on a calm trail
A water warmer than the sea with many beaches to be able to stop
A wild and preserved landscape
Class 1 river - several watercourses will run along this course
Your vehicle is waiting for you at the end of the trail

CONDITIONS


ACCESSIBLE TO ALL EVEN TO BEGINNERS, ONLY CONDITIONS :

Know how to swim 25 meters and know to put your head under water
(Ministerial decree of May 4, 1995)

Be 6 years old minimum

Be in good physical condition

For reasons of sécurity, mothers-to-be cannot board the boats.

INCLUDED

Free parking
Safety jacket
Waterproof containers (1 per boat)
As the tightness of the containers is not guaranteed, we advise you to bring a waterproof bag for your personal effects. (car key, phone, etc.)
Boat and paddle 🙂

PRACTICAL ADVICE

TO REMEMBER:

Sun protection (glasses, cap or hat, sunscreen)

Closed shoes (water shoes, trainers…)

Water (minimum 1 liter per person)

Picnic if you want to take your lunch break during the descent

Towel

change of clothes for arrival

As the tightness of the containers is not guaranteed, we advise you to bring a waterproof bag for your personal effects (car key, telephone, etc.)

trails map

“CONDUCT OF DESCENTES”

reservation
Location de canoë dans l'Hérault
Equipement pour canoë dans l'Hérault
descente
retour

WEEK-END

ENJOY THE AREA

You can also go on a 2 days trip to enjoy the beauty of the area to its fullest. As the Gorges of Hérault are part of the Natura 2000 ecological network of protected areas, there are no official campsites.

Kayapuna is also an available and attentive staff, always ready to listen to you !

DISCOVER THE WILDEST AREAS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF HÉRAULT

Home

Canoeing down the Hérault river

We are located in Saint Guihem le Désert which has been ranked among the most beautiful villages in France and registered on the UNESCO world heritage site’s list. Situated in the heart of the Hérault department, our canoe base, «CANOE KAYAPUNA», offers you the opportunity to discover our region through its river. You will be able to enjoy one of the most beautiful wild sites (which is classified and preserved) to its fullest while relaxing on the river and paddle at your own pace.

TRAILS

4KM TOUR (1H/ APPROXIMATELY)

An unforgettable adventure

You can choose between two different trails :

The wild trail : 12km
The discovery trail : 4km

Either taking half a day or the whole day as you prefer...
Your vehicle will be parked at the end of the trail so there are no time restrictions to return (only for 12km trails).

It is particularly important to us that your excursion becomes a true moment of pleasure, of fun, but also of relaxation, especially on the numerous little beaches you will find along the trail.

Don't wait any longer and come enjoy one of the most beautiful wild sites (which is classified and preserved) to its fullest while relaxing on the river and paddle at your own pace.


After having discovered the river’s fauna and flora, you can go visit the numerous historic monuments across the village as you stroll through its mysterious alleys, uncovering their secrets. In order for you to do so, we can offer a parking spots in our private parking lot (depending on the number of available spots). Only at KAYAPUNA !

The wild trail - 12km

The long trail "The secret Gorges of Hérault" - an ideal trail with friends or family

The discovery trail - 4km

The short trail - Relaxation and bathing garanteed

descente canoe st-guilhem
Canoë Kayapuna Hérault

Our values

As part of a family business and a human size company, every client is very important to our staff. We will be happy to answer any of your questions and to provide some advice, explanations and security information. For more than 30 years, the whole KAYAPUNA staff offers a personal service and a warm reception close to the Gorges of Hérault.

Our little ones more

You are looking for a canoe ride, but you don't have the necessary equipment ? At our base you will find every essentials accessories to navigate : fresh water, sunscreen, cords for glasses. If you wish, we can provide you helmets for children. 

St Guilhem le Désert

Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

We are located in Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert, which is an exceptional site that has been ranked among the most beautiful villages in France and registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
With more than 800.000 visitors each year, this medieval village is a must see in the region Languedoc Roussillon.

Descente en canoë des Gorges de l'Hérault

THE STORY OF CANOË KAYAPUNA

In the early 80s, the KAYAPUNA company founder decided to travel to Guinea. There, he discovered the rainforest and one of its indigenous tribes. He was warmly welcomed by this tribe and met his chief who was called KAYAPUNA. Touched by the old man’s hospitality, he decided to found a Canoe/Kayak renting company, and to call it KAYAPUNA as he returned to France. For more than 30 years, the whole KAYAPUNA staff offers a personal service and a warm reception close to the Gorges of Hérault.

Descente en canoë des Gorges de l'Hérault

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6ans âge minimum requis pour descendre en canoë

From 6 years

parking gratuit pour les client de Kayapuna

Free Parking

pique nique facile

Easy to lunch

4 personnes minimum requis pour descendre en canoë

From 1 to 4 places