📜 Can you paddle on any canal?
Wondering if the canal in front of your house could become your next paddle spot? Before you inflate your trusty floating companion and don your vest, a quick rundown of the rules of the game. 🕵️♂️
First thing to know: just because there's water doesn't mean you can dip your paddle into it. On some canals, the melee between barges and canoes could turn into a nautical version of "Fort Boyard", without the keys. To avoid becoming a floating obstacle between two cargo ships, a glance at the local rules is in order. 🚤
Locks are fun to look at, but paddling through them is like trying to climb an escalator the wrong way. Some canals are equipped as obstacle courses to test your balance and your ability not to end up soaking wet. So, before you embark on a giant slalom, check whether your route includes these little water traps.
Oh, and let's talk about currents. If the idea of paddling in place amuses you, some canals with their teasing current will be your best friends. On the other hand, if you prefer to move forward rather than paddle statically, it's best to choose your canal as you would choose your ski slope: blue, green, red, black - to each his own.
As for nature, some canals are so VIP that they are reserved for wildlife. It's like a nightclub where your paddle isn't on the list. These protected areas are not there to bother us, but to leave ducks, water lilies and small fish alone. So let's respect the natural safety cordons. 🦆
Finally, the best advice: talk to the locals or take a look at the online water sports guides. There's always a fisherman, kayaker or walker who knows the area like the back of their hand. What's more, it's a great opportunity to make friends and share a sandwich or an ice cream after taming the waves.
In short, before happily cruising your favorite canal, a little scouting and preparation will ensure a smooth, fun-filled day.
🌊 Some authorized canal paddling spots
Rompsay canal
Want to try your hand at paddling without making waves? Head for the Rompsay canal! Created to pamper La Rochelle in the 19th century, this spot is a beginner's paradise. Imagine yourself gliding along the water, calm as a Sunday without homework, with not the slightest ripple to disturb your serenity. 🌞
Renting? Child's play in La Rochelle, where you'll find all the perfect paddler's kit, from an inflatable SUP to a paddle adjusted to your size. The course? A one-way trip to happiness, with waters so calm you could almost take a siesta. And if you're feeling adventurous, push on to the pont de Mouillepied, a name that hopefully doesn't bode well for your navigation technique 😅.
The Marne-Rhine canal
If you dream of zigzagging between history and nature, the Canal de la Marne au Rhin is your next paddle. But be warned: reservations are required! Drop in to the Sud Meuse Tourist Office to reserve your place (and ask for a few local tips). It's the key to joining the club of water explorers.
This canal isn't just for stand-up paddle pros, but also for kids aged 8 and over who know how to swim. It's like a swimming lesson, but much cooler, with the chance to fall in without the teacher's reproving gaze. As an added bonus, you'll glide through the water gracefully, balanced on your board, ready to take in breathtaking scenery. And it's all thanks to a good choice of accessories and tips gleaned before departure (yes, you read Bouge! regularly, that's for sure 😉 ).
The Ourcq Canal, near Paris, in Seine et Marne
The Canal de l'Ourcq is the grand avenue for paddling in the Paris region. To find your launch spot, you don't need a compass or a treasure map, just a glance at Google Maps in spy mode (satellite view, for those who know) and you'll find the perfect place to plunge your board into the water. 🕵️♂️
The advantage? No long walks with your equipment under your arm (think inflatable boards, for ease of transport). Once you're in the water, it's total freedom. Paddle at your own pace, slaloming between nature and urban culture, and if you're a bit of a daredevil, why not try a few wingfoil moves?
Of course, keep in mind that the primary aim is to have fun without turning your paddle into an unwanted submarine. Ready to conquer the Ourcq?
The Savières Canal at Chanaz
The Savières Canal is a favorite with paddlers in search of tranquility and picture-postcard scenery. Between Lac du Bourget and the Rhône, this waterway is a nugget where you can glide on water so clear you could count the pebbles on the bottom.
Imagine starting your practice on your knees, tranquil, among the water lilies, lulled by the private concert of birds. The road that follows the canal is so unobtrusive it's easy to forget, especially if you choose a weekday for your getaway. And the current? So shy that it lets you paddle along, whether you go to conquer Chanaz or decide to turn back (no surfing here, as you'll understand 😉 ).
Chanaz, nicknamed the little Savoyard Venice, welcomes you with open arms, between a picturesque visit and a gourmet break by the water. For the adventurous, the lock is just a short stroll away, under the historic footbridge. A little detour worth its weight in visual nuggets and personal satisfaction. Ready to embark body and soul on this high-end (but low-key) activity?
The Nantes-Brest Canal
You're now in pole position on the Canal de Nantes à Brest, where the water is so calm it could rival your Sunday evening swim. It's the perfect plan for a few kilometers of escape away from the noise, with just the lapping of your paddle for company. 🌿
Depart from the Saint Clair leisure base in Guenrouët, where you can choose your mount: a classic canoe-kayak, a paddle for the balancing act, or even a giant paddle if you've decided to put together a team (watch out for the neighbor's feet 😅). Head for the port of Cougou, 5 km away, perfect for an early-morning expedition. 🚣♂️
And for those with a sweet tooth, don't forget your picnic! The riverbanks offer the ideal spot for a lunch break with a view, where the only sound will be that of your satisfaction. Paddles and paddles in hand, it's off for an adventure from top to bottom!
