Our canoes for paddling down the Vézère: stable, comfortable, for everyone

At Les 7 Rives, we take the quality of our equipment very seriously. Because a good canoe is what makes the difference between a tiring day and a memorable one. That’s what we offer.

A little history: the canoe, invented by Native Americans

The canoe is a boat that originated with the Native Americans of North America. Long, stable, and designed to carry loads on lakes and rivers, it was traditionally made of birch bark or animal hides. Trappers loaded it with salted furs—and that’s where the expression “to capsize” comes from!

Today, our canoes are made of high-density polyethylene: unbreakable, ultra-stable, and comfortable.

Our fleet: which canoes for which group size?

  • 2-person canoe: for a duo, couple, friends, or adult + older child
  • 3-person canoe: ideal for a family with a child
  • 4-person canoe: the large family canoe, stable and reassuring
  • We also offer single and double kayaks and paddleboards

Some models are equipped with backrests, a real plus for long days. Ask for them first!

Single or double paddle: the choice is yours

Contrary to popular belief, you can also use a double paddle (like in a kayak) in a canoe. Some of our customers prefer this for greater speed. Both options are available on site.

Is it difficult to maneuver a canoe?

Not at all! The principle is simple:

  • At the front and middle: you generate power (paddle steadily)
  • At the back: you steer. The paddler in the back steers the canoe.
  • If everyone paddles on the same side, the canoe turns. So we regularly switch sides.

With a few minutes of practice, it becomes second nature. And we’re here to show you.

🌿 Our tip: Our Old Town canoes are among the finest we’ve ever offered—swift, lightweight, and remarkably stable. If you’re two adults without children, try the two-person canoe rather than the double kayak: you’ll be side-by-side, which is much more pleasant for chatting and enjoying the scenery together!