Are you overdue for an adventure?
France may not be the first destination you think of when you think of active holidays, but we can assure you it has plenty to offer. Swimming, biking and fishing are just a few of the activities available for cruises in the South of France. Your boat acts perfectly as a base for transport and accommodation and enables you the freedom to take advantage of your destination during the day.
Camargue
Camargue is the perfect region for novice boaters due to the limited number of locks that they’ll have to navigate. Known for its gorgeous beaches, Camargue features the Étang du Thau at Méze, the largest lagoon along the Languedoc Coast that stretches for miles and is a refreshing spot for a swim. The Camargue also offers clean fishing waters, and scenic walking and biking trails. Watersports, including kayaking and paddle boarding, are also available.
Wildlife is abundant along the Camargue route. You can spot more than 400 species of birds that live in the marshes, including rare pink flamingos, as well as wild white Camargue horses and black bulls that graze the bountiful grasslands. Climb the dunes and trails and ride horse-back at either the La Grande-Motte Riding School or the resort of Le Cap d’Adge.
Lot Valley
The Lot Valley, known for its historical scenery, offers an excellent cruising ground and diverse opportunities for hiking and biking. Biking to the Pech-Merle cave in Lot County and viewing the historic artwork on the cave walls comes highly recommended. Explore the quaint towns along the Lot Valley route is a must. Cahors, the largest city in the area, is situated on a peninsula with dramatic views, is known for the famous “black” wine originating from the region hundreds of years ago.
Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the small village of Caillac, where a man-made lake provides excellent fishing. Meanwhile, the fresh waters of the Lot River attract watersport enthusiasts from all over. From swimming and fishing to paddleboarding, cruisers will find plenty of things to do here.
Nivernais
The Canal Du Nivernais is a delight to discover, not only for its exceptional wines and wineries but also for its outdoor activities. Visit Baye for spectacular aqueducts, hiking and water based activities. Hire kayaks, paddleboards and other water toys from the popular Base Nautique Activital watersports centre. Further south, Hike the rocky outcrop to the town of Cercy La Tour sitting 201 metres above the canal for stunning views of the valley. Other good hiking spots include Mailly-le-Château, Lucy-sur-Yonne and Vincelles-Vincelottes. Cycle along the many towpaths between Decize and Auxerre and appreciate the sight of natural and quiet landscapes. Drop a line for a dinner at Pregilbert or Paray-Le-Monial - both regions abundant with delicious trout!