LE MAGAZINEThe best stand-up paddle spots in France
For over 10 years now, inflatable stand-up paddling has been growing and spreading on French beaches. In addition to the fun aspect of the activity, some enthusiasts find it physically rewarding, others find it a way to reconnect with nature, and there are almost infinite possibilities for exploration. Whether by the sea or in the mountains, on one of our country’s many lakes, paddleboarding is a popular sport.
So, in this article, we’re going to take a look at the best paddle spots in France, some for the beauty of their landscapes, others for their range of possibilities and others for the explorations they offer.
Best paddle spots in France by water type
The spots will be classified according to their type, whether lakes, oceans, seas or rivers.
Paddle spots: Lakes
Lakes, of which there are many in France, are ideal places to practice Stand up paddle, as they are often safe and windless.
Lake Annecy (Haute-Savoie)
Lake Annecy tops the list, and its accessibility and breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps make it one of the most popular paddleboarding destinations. If you’re a regular paddler, you’ll want to try it out at least once. Every village around the lake has access to the water, and it’s even possible to launch from the roadside. The diversity of launch sites means that this spot is rarely overcrowded.
The la d’annecy is therefore a treasure trove for landscape and paddle enthusiasts who want to get away from it all,
A feast for the eyes. SROKA’s little extra is that you can sleep on the shores of the lake in a van or other vehicle to enjoy the atmosphere at sunset.
Another piece of advice is to choose a long, narrow paddle, such as our Alpha range, to glide effortlessly across the lake, which happens to be large.
Lac du Bourget (Savoie)
Savoyard lakes are numerous and particularly beautiful. Among them, Lac du Bourget is one of the most beautiful in Stand up paddle.
It offers breathtaking views of the Bauges massif, making for long walks without feeling satiated or weary. It’s beautiful and you’ll want more! Numerous water access points are available to get you away from the crowds.
SROKA’s little tip would be to do a good climbing or via ferrata session around Chambéry before enjoying the sunset over the water. Just magical. All our paddles are ideal for this, and the more daring can try their hand at sup yoga with our malibu or easy range.
Lake Sainte-Croix (Var)
The Var is renowned for its sumptuous landscapes, and among the most beautiful places, Lac de Sainte Croix is surely in the top 3 of things to see in the region. Its location is ideal for combining walks in the Gorges du Verdon and paddling in the peace and quiet of the lake. You can do it all.
Sroka’s tip: take a paddle with some carrying capacity with you, so you can go exploring for the day with a touring paddle.
River paddle spots
Sailing a river can be both sporty and relaxing, depending on the flow.
The Dordogne (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
The Dordogne is renowned for its natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. It flows through regions such as Auvergne, Limousin, Périgord and Bordeaux, offering a wide variety of landscapes. The banks of the Dordogne feature sheer cliffs, green hills, vineyards, castles and charming medieval villages.
The SROKA tip? On the Dordogne, a slippery paddle allows you to make multi-day raids, racking up kilometers without exerting yourself.
The Ardèche River (Ardèche)
The Ardèche has long been famous for kayaking, but it’s no less enjoyable at Stand up paddle. Long walks along the banks and cliffs at the bottom of its impressive gorges will provide you with a relaxing climate and unforgettable family moments.
The SROKA tip, a touring paddle with good carrying capacity, will enable you to set off for the day and enjoy a picnic in sublime surroundings.
Tarn (Occitanie)
The Tarn is a river where life is good, tourism in the Occitanie region is well established and the local climate is sure to provide warm sunny days. Ideal for family walks and long, peaceful outings. However, the region can be prone to violent winds, so always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water.
SROKA’s tip: on rivers, use retractable fins to avoid problems in shallow passages.
Sea paddle spots
River sailing can be dangerous, but it can also be so much fun. Discover our selection of breathtaking spots on the sea.
Calanques of Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône)
The Calanques in and around Marseilles are renowned for their incredible water color and stunning scenery. Access to the water can sometimes be difficult, which is why you need an inflatable paddle that you can carry in a bag. Once you’re out on the water, all you have to do is marvel, alone or with your family. All kinds of activities are possible, just follow your desires.
SROKA’s advice is to take our EASY model with you. As well as being affordable, its easy shape means you can try out everything you want on your paddle, and let the kids enjoy it too.
Golfe du Morbihan (Morbihan)
Unlike many of the spots listed above, the Morbihan golf course offers more variable conditions, as its location on the Atlantic Ocean offers more or less waves, depending on the wind direction. Make sure you choose the right place to launch yourself, depending on the conditions you’re looking for. The golf course is immense, allowing you to go for a stroll, but also to do long-distance racing or even downwind sup. The possibilities are endless!
SROKA’s advice is to adapt your paddle to your riding style: take a long paddle if you need to glide, and a short one if you need manoeuvrability.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz beach (Pyrénées-Atlantiques)
The Basque coast is a real surfing paradise: the waves, the sun (in summer), the atmosphere… everything you need for dream sessions. The beach at saint jean de luz offers a kind of sheltered bay for those looking for flat water, but also a nice swell for thrill-seekers. Once again, anything is possible, so all you have to do is go for it.
SROKA’s tip: in waves, a short paddle will give you better maneuverability. That’s what our WAVE range is for!
Conclusion:
Our hexagon abounds in diverse and varied landscapes, and exploring them is entirely up to you, so adapt your equipment to the environment, prepare your sessions and go for it! We’re delighted to offer you a range of paddles that’s wide enough to suit all levels of ability and desire, so make the most of it!
If you have any further questions, or if you have any other requests, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
Le Magazine
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