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OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN THE POITOU-CHARENTES
The enchanting region of Poitou-Charentes, in the mid-west of France with its abundant wealth of countryside it is a perfect location to try out many new and exciting adventure activities.
The tranquil River Charente flows from the far east of the Charente department on a sinuous path through the rolling Charente country side, past a multitude of mills with beautiful, calm mill ponds, past the walled town of Angouleme through Cognac and then out into the Bay of Biscay near Rochefort. The river is a fabulous place to learn how to canoe for adults and children alike. Excitement is thrown in at each mill where it is necessary to negotiate the fast flowing waters of the barrages. For adults and those with a little more experience white water can be found on the River Gartempe, where it rushes through granite gorges in the far east of the Vienne. Here it is possible to canoe and experience white water rafting.
For those with a passion for heights (or a desire to face up to their fears) rock climbing and abseiling is plentiful in the Poitou-Charentes region. Some of the hardest rock climbing in world can be found at the Vallee des Eaux Claires near Angouleme. Fortunately there is also some great beginners climbing there and also on the granite crags near the River Gartempe, which also boasts some truly breathtaking scenery.
Tree climbing in France is a sport that originated out of the desire for cavers to practice their rope climbing skills without the need to actually go underground. It is now a thriving activity for holidaying families and there are several locations in the Poitou-Charentes where one can have a go. Do you fancy climbing tree to tree across monkey bridges or zooming down zip slides onto giant spiders webs slung high up in the tree branches?
The limestone rocks beneath the region do not only give us plenty of rock outcrops for rock climbing and abseiling but also plentiful caves and potholes to explore. In the Braconne Forest in the Charente Department there are numerous limestone caves, including those that make a fantastic taster to the sport for families who would otherwise never dream of going underground.
The region is also great for cycling, not too hilly and not too flat, with miles upon miles of empty rural country lanes and off-road tracks that make it an ideal place to cycle with youngsters. Imagine cycling in the warm sun along a quite country lane with a smooth wide river on your side, occasional kingfishers flash by and fish splash the water in a mill pond covered in lily pads.
The Poitou-Charentes is a treasure trove of fabulous outdoor sports suitable for children and adults, beginners and experienced. At Activity Holidays France you and your family can safely experience all these activities and more. Local activity centres can specifically cater for families and children as young as 5, using only fully qualified trainers and instructors.
If you are interested in undertaking any adventure activities whilst staying with us please let us know at the time of booking and we can direct you to local activity centers and help you to book and plan your week.
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