At the small sea and for us, November rhymes with Marathon.
This month of November 2025
This will be the first year Ugo will not participate on the water in this mythical Marathon. But as every year we are part of the volunteers at the international marathon of the gorges of the Ardèche.
Some pleasant weather
In the last few days we have had beautiful rains which dramatically raise the levels of the rivers. The weather plays a key role in the success of this international marathon of the gorges of the Ardèche : https://www.meteociel.fr/previsions/2393/vallon_pont_d_arc.htm
Too much water, the marathon can be cancelled for safety reasons, not enough water and EDF cannot ensure the washing of water. We can be informed of the levels of the rivers thanks to the vigicrue & riverapps applications…. https://www.vigicrues.gouv.fr/station/V505401001
Not to be missed
On 7 and 8 November 2025, the 41st edition of the Marathon International des Gorges de l’Ardèche will be held.
This iconic event brings together lovers and professionals of the paddle in an exceptional natural setting — the Gorges de l’Ardèche — for a sporty but also friendly descent.
The framework and spirit
- The route crosses the Gorges de l’Ardèche nature reserve, between Vallon-Pont‐d’Arc and Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche.
- Two main distances are proposed: 27 km or 34 km depending on the boat.
- The appointment mixes performance, fun, sharing and celebration. “Conviviality and sharing are at the heart of the event,” says the organization.
The programme in brief
Friday, 7 November
- From 3 p.m.: “Le Rush”, a 4-km mini race between Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and Pont-d’Arc, accessible from 13 years old, by kayak/canoe or paddle.
- Exhibitors’ village, back-up and opening night.
Saturday, 8 November
- 9 a.m.: Ard’river Paddle (27 km on stand-up paddle) between Pont d’Arc and Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche.
- 10 a.m. Challenge (27 km festive) for crews from 3 to 12 people, costumes encouraged.
- 11 a.m.: The flagship race – the Marathon (34 km) for kayaks or canoes 1 or 2 places. Departure from “La Petite Mer”.
- All day: gourmet market on arrival (Quai des Bateliers in Saint-Martin-d-Ardèche) with drink, handicrafts, festive atmosphere.
To know for spectators and participants
- No parking is possible at the Pont d’Arc for spectators. Free shuttles are organized from the parking lot of the tourist office.
- Saturdays from 8 am, shuttles every 15 minutes for departure.
- To respect the natural site, the recommendations are clear: to transport waste, avoid drones, stay on marked trails. gorges-ardeche-pontdarc.fr
Why participate or go?
- To live a unique sporting adventure: whether you are an amateur or an expert, the majestic gorge setting and the variety of boats allow everyone to find their own challenge.
- For the human and festive atmosphere: the event is not limited to competition, but is also a moment of sharing, meeting, and conviviality.
- For the beauty of the site: sailing between cliffs, vegetation, caves, in the middle of nature — a real immersion.
In summary
The Ardèche Gorges International Marathon is much more than just a race. It is a weekend of emotion, nature and glide, to live on the side of Vallon-Pont-d’Arc and Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche on November 7 & 8 2025. Whether you’re a spectator, a beginner or a confirmed paddler, the event promises some great moments.
If you want, I can give you detailed schedules, registration links or even the best points of view to follow the test. You want me to do it?
Or do we meet?
