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Contact
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
DIRECTIONS
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”).
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”).
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.
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DANS LES GORGES DE L'HÉRAULT
PHOTOS GALLERY
PHOTOS OF OUR DIFFERENTS TRAILS
Find here the pictures taken during trails.
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PHOTOS
VIDEOS
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Saint-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…
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 !
SAINT 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.
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.
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
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.
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.
To be 6 or above
Be able to swim 25m
Be physically fit
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.
NOTICE
RETAIL SHOP
Our canoe rental shop is located at the entrance of Saint Guilhem le Désert, on your left. You can park your car for free in our private parking lot just across the street on your right side (do not forget to tell to the attendant that you are a client of “Canoe Kayapuna”).
EQUIPMENT
Our equipment and boats are of the latest generation and are replaced and maintained on a regular basis. Our boats are unsinkable and self-bailing.
Hygiene
In order to guarantee perfect hygiene, the life jackets as well as the waterproof containers are cleaned and disinfected after each use.
ENVIRONMENT
You will paddle through protected and classified areas, please respect the fauna and flora along the river. Fires are strictly prohibited. At the arrival of the trail, you will find garbage bins, so do not forget to bring back your garbage with you.
Canoe trails prices
DISCOVER OUR CANOE RETAIL PRICES
PRICES
THE LONG TRAIL – 12KM
Our rates include
Canoe renting
Paddles
Life jackets
Bus transportation
Waterproof container
The smile of the team Kayapuna
Groups
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
12 KM
–
–
DURATION
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.)
THE DISCOVERY TRAIL
DISTANCE
4 KM
–
–
DURATION
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.)
“CONDUCT OF DESCENTES”
REGISTRATION
To make a registration, you can book online, by phone or go to our home base Saint Guilhem le Desert (first canoe base entering the village on the left). You can park your car in our car park at the entrance of the village.
SHUTTLE BUS
You then join our arrival base to park your vehicle and take the shuttle.
BRIEFING
At the start of the course we will give you a brief briefing (how to steer your boat ...) and you can board your canoe with all the necessary equipment (lifejackets, paddle, watertight can ...).
DESCENT
Then you have all day to enjoy nature, water and sun. Swimming, picnics and laughs.
ARRIVAL
Upon arrival you will leave all your equipment on site and find your vehicle.
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 !
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
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
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.
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.
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.
From 6 years
Free Parking
Easy to lunch
From 1 to 4 places