For over 10 years now, inflatable stand-up paddleboarding has been steadily growing in popularity on French beaches. Beyond the fun aspect of the activity, paddleboarders find it physically rewarding for some, a way to reconnect with nature for others, and almost limitless possibilities for exploration. Whether at sea or in the mountains on the many lakes across the country, paddleboarders are enjoying the sport.
In this article, we will discuss the best French spots for paddleboarding , some for the beauty of their landscapes, others for their wide range of possibilities, and others for the explorations they offer.
The best paddleboarding spots in France by water type
The spots will be classified according to their type, whether they are lakes, oceans, seas or rivers and streams.
Paddleboarding spots: The lakes
Lakes, which are numerous in France, are ideal places for stand-up paddleboarding; they often allow for safe practice and are regularly free of wind.
Lake Annecy (Haute-Savoie)
Lake Annecy tops this list. Its accessibility and breathtaking views of the Alps make it one of the most popular spots for stand-up paddleboarding. It's a destination that regular paddlers should try at least once. Numerous launch points are available; every village around the lake has access to the water, and sometimes it's even possible to launch right along the roads. Thanks to the variety of launch locations, it's rarely crowded.
Lake Annecy is therefore a gem for lovers of scenery and paddleboarding who want to...
A truly breathtaking experience. SROKA's special touch is sleeping on the shores of the lake in a van or other vehicle to enjoy the atmosphere at sunset.
Another little tip: to get around the lake, which turns out to be quite large, opt for a long and narrow paddleboard to glide effortlessly, such as our Alpha range.
Lake Bourget (Savoie)
The Savoy region boasts numerous and exceptionally beautiful lakes. Among them, Lake Bourget is one of the most beautiful for stand-up paddleboarding.
It offers breathtaking views of the Bauges mountain range, allowing for long walks without feeling tired or overwhelmed. It's beautiful, and you'll want to come back for more! Numerous access points to water are available, allowing you to escape the crowds.
SROKA's top tip is to enjoy a good climbing or via ferrata session around Chambéry before heading out to watch the sunset on the water. Simply magical. All our paddleboards are ideal for this, and the more adventurous can try SUP yoga with our Malibu or Easy range.
Lake of Sainte-Croix (Var)
The Var region is renowned for its stunning scenery, and among the most beautiful spots, Lake Sainte-Croix is surely in the top three things to see in the area. Its location is ideal for combining hikes in the Verdon Gorge with peaceful paddleboarding on the lake. There's something for everyone.
Sroka's advice: take a paddleboard with you that has a certain carrying capacity; this will allow you to go exploring for the day with a touring paddleboard.
Paddleboarding spots on rivers
River navigation can be sporty but also very relaxing depending on the river's flow rate.
Dordogne (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
The Dordogne River is renowned for its natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. It flows through regions such as Auvergne, Limousin, Périgord, and Bordeaux, offering a diverse range of scenery. The banks of the Dordogne feature dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, vineyards, castles, and charming medieval villages.
SROKA's advice? On the Dordogne, a smooth paddleboard will allow you to do multi-day raids, covering kilometers without straining.
The Ardèche River (Ardèche)
The Ardèche region needs no introduction; long renowned for kayaking, it's equally enjoyable for stand-up paddleboarding. Long paddles along the banks and cliffs at the bottom of its impressive gorges will provide a relaxing atmosphere and unforgettable moments with family.
SROKA recommends a touring paddleboard with good carrying capacity, allowing you to go out for the day and enjoy a picnic in a sublime environment.
The Tarn (Occitanie)
The Tarn is a river where life is good; tourism in Occitanie needs no introduction, and the local climate is sure to offer you warm, sunny days. It's ideal for family outings and long, peaceful walks. However, the region can be subject to strong winds, so always check the weather forecast before going on the water.
SROKA's advice: when fishing in rivers, equip yourself with retractable fins to avoid problems during any shallow sections.
Sea paddleboarding spots
River navigation can be dangerous but also so enjoyable, discover our selection of sea spots that will take your breath away.
Calanques of Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône)
It's already beautiful from land, so imagine it from the water… The Calanques of Marseille and the surrounding area are renowned for their incredible water color and stunning scenery. Access to the water can sometimes be difficult, hence the appeal of an inflatable paddleboard that you can carry in a bag. Once at sea, all you have to do is marvel at the view, alone or with your family. All types of paddling are possible; just follow your heart.
SROKA's advice is to take our EASY model with you; in addition to being affordable, its easy-to-use shape will allow you to try anything you want on your paddleboard and also let the children enjoy it.
Gulf of Morbihan (Morbihan)
Unlike many of the spots listed previously, the Gulf of Morbihan offers more variable conditions. Its location in the Atlantic Ocean means that, depending on the wind direction, it provides more or less wave action. Choose your launch spot carefully based on the conditions you're looking for. The gulf is vast, allowing you to enjoy leisurely paddles, long-distance races, or even downwind SUP sessions. The possibilities are endless!
SROKA's advice: depending on your practice, you should adapt your paddle to your practice; take a long paddle if you need glide and a shorter one if you need maneuverability.
Beach of Saint-Jean-de-Luz (Pyrénées-Atlantiques)
The Basque coast is a true surfing paradise: the waves, the sun (in summer), the atmosphere… Everything is there for dream sessions. The beach at Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers a sheltered bay for those seeking flat water, as well as a great swell for thrill-seekers. Once again, anything is possible; all you have to do is go for it.
SROKA's advice: in the waves, a shorter paddleboard will allow you to be more maneuverable. Our WAVE range is made for that!
Conclusion:
Our country is full of diverse and varied landscapes; exploring them is entirely up to you, so adapt your equipment to the environment, prepare your sessions, and go for it! We are pleased to offer a wide range of paddleboards, allowing you to practice regardless of your skill level or preferences. Enjoy!
If you still have questions about this, or for any other inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us !