Summer Camp Ardèche, France
Grande Descente!
The big expedition is here.
Today we have embarked on the 2 day river journey along the Ardeche river.
Today we will be utilising canoe skills gained in lessons from over the week.
Today is the beginning of The Grande Descente!
The day started with a bus trip to the take out point of the Mini Descente, where our boats were left for collection. Campers loaded their boats with essential camping gear, fastened their helmets, zipped their Buoyancy Vests, and paddled off with eager determination.
Campers were challenged widely, and communication between them and their paddling partner was imperative to maneuver through rapids and battle elements like the wind and warm temperatures.
Regular stops gave the arms a rest, and swim breaks a welcome break from the heat of the beating sun. The mid morning break had a canoe dragged up steep stony beach, where 6 to 8 campers were able to partake in a rock slide water entry - woohoo! The boat picked by speed as it raced toward the water, before capsizing and sending the squeals of delight under water.
Later in the day, a gourmet lunch was set against a stunning backdrop of towering cliffs, giving fuel to conquer rapids one after the other, safely monitored by our trusty River Team.
For the afternoon biscuit and chocolate treat, campers had to complete a group challenge of 'Pass the Rock'. The group leaders sat back as campers Isis, Eric and Slav organised, explained and translated the concept of the game in French, English and Russian, to get a rock from one end of a line of people to the other, passed only from paddle to paddle. And it was a success - well done!
We reached the bivouac site in good time, and everyone pitched in to get all gear to the site. After a barbecue dinner, campers performed skits for their banana and chocolate dessert. From Russian anthems to impersonating Group Leaders, performed jokes to sing songs, giggles were abound!
Rounding up a very exciting day, campers slept under the stars, gearing up for the following day of paddling.
- Breakfast: Cereal, bread & fruit
- Lunch: Baguette, meat, cheese, salad & fruit
- Dinner: Barbecue meat, potatos, salad, & banana & choc
- Subject to change. Vegetarian options always available.
Click here for more information about Summer Camp nutrition
Latest photos from Ardèche, France
- Rock slides
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Skits
