Canoeing and kayaking in the Gorges du Tarn

Published on 10 Jul 2026

Reading time: 3 min.

Canoeing and kayaking reign supreme throughout the Gorges du Tarn, whether in Sainte-Enimie or La Malène. Lozère invites you to discover its charms with four routes to suit all levels.

Exploring the Gorges du Tarn by canoe

Canoeing down the Tarn is possible from April to October, depending on the water level. It is a river suitable for everyone. Rental companies offer a range of routes, allowing you to enjoy the gorges at your own pace. They provide canoes or kayaks, paddles, lifejackets and sometimes helmets, and will take you back to the starting point by bus once you’ve completed your trip. The staff are on hand to guide and advise you. Please don’t hesitate to contact them for any further information.

For those choosing this idyllic setting to try their hand at canoeing, we have selected four routes of varying difficulty to help you soak up the atmosphere of the area and explore it to the full.

Castelbouc – Saint-Énimie (8 km – 2 hours)

Ideal for families with young children, this route offers a chance to explore the banks of the Tarn. During the descent, you’ll catch a glimpse of the village of Castelbouc and its castle, followed by Prades Castle. After a stretch with low water levels, you’ll need to carry your canoe across to the other side of the embankment. An accessible section offering a mix of calm stretches and rapids for a bit of excitement.

The itinerary

Sainte-Enimie – La Malène (12 km – 4 hours)

This classic half-day itinerary will take you on a tour of the most beautiful villages in the Gorges du Tarn: Sainte-Enimie, Saint-Chély-du-Tarn, Pougnadoires, Hauterives, La Malène and the Château de la Caze. This tour guarantees a chance to get away from it all in the great outdoors, with no time constraints. In the middle of the ‘détroits’ – the narrowest part of the gorges – you’ll have fun imagining the shapes the rocks might take.

The itinerary

Sainte-Enimie – Baumes (22 km – 7 hours)

A full day exploring the banks of the Tarn. On the agenda: stunning scenery, water and a bit of exercise. Given its length, this route is only suitable for those in good physical condition. But the effort is well worth it! You’ll have the chance to explore the picturesque village of La Croze. The highlight of the trip comes at the finish at the Cirque des Baumes, with its breathtaking views of the towering cliffs.

The itinerary

Canoeing through rapids in the Gorges du Tarn, © Rémi Flament – PACT GDT

A canoe in front of the Château de la Caze, © Rémi Flament

Castelbouc – Baumes (30 km – 2 days)

Adventure with a capital A! Budding Robinson Crusoes can explore the river at unforgettable moments: in the light of the setting and rising sun, in an atmosphere of exceptional tranquillity. For this two-day trip, service providers can arrange transport for your kit (tent, rucksacks, food, etc.) and book your campsite pitch or hotel room. Nearly 30 accommodation options are available along the Gorges du Tarn.

Castelbouc – Baumes (30 km – 2 days)

Canoeing routes

So, which route would you choose for your canoe trip down the Gorges du Tarn?