Marathon International des Gorges
An essential date to put in the diary for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts!
Every autumn, almost 2,000 participants go head-to-head on the fabulous Ardèche Gorges. The cream of the crop in canoeing and kayaking compete along with beginners, for a fun sporting event.
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 November 2024: 40th Marathon International of the Ardèche Gorges !
4 events for a legendary race
For this 40th edition, we’re taking advantage of a long weekend to shift our various races to Saturday 9 November (Village + Rush) and Sunday 10 November (Ard’river, Challenge and Marathon).
Samedi 9 November
– From 3pm : Le Rush (4 km): A race between Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and the Pont d’Arc: elite or general public race; accessible from 13 years old, in kayak or canoe, 1 or 2-seater or single-seater paddle.
Sunday 10 November
– 9 a.m.: Ard’river paddle (27 km): A Stand Up Paddle event in the Gorges de l’Ardèche, between Pont d’Arc and Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche.
– 10 a.m.: Challenge (27 km): The ultimate party race! Teams of between 3 and 12 people challenge each other over the 27km descent of the Gorges de l’Ardèche in a crazy atmosphere! Disguise strongly advised.
– 11 a.m.: Marathon international des Gorges de l’Ardèche (departure from “la petite mer”) (34 km): THE flagship race of the event, the Marathon brings together kayaks and 1 or 2-seater canoes. And while the Gorges de l’Ardèche and their many rapids are an ideal playground for athletes looking for a challenge, it’s also an opportunity for enthusiasts to experience the legendary atmosphere of this event along the 34 km of river!
3 starting lines at 11am on Sunday 10 November
🏆 The elites: their goal is to win
🛶 Composite boats: fast craft that require a certain amount of canoeing experience
🚣♀️ Plastic boats: to discover with or without a time limit
The finish of Sunday’s three races takes place at Saint Martin d’Ardèche, quai des Pescadous upstream from the bridge.
There will be a refreshment stand with snacks on site, as well as a number of exhibitors. There’ll be music next to the finish line, a friendly atmosphere, and local food and crafts. Something for everyone!