Camp Journal - Ardeche, France

Daily News 3rd July

It was a wet start to Thursday morning as excitement hung in the air with the first descent of the river approaching.

The French groups enjoyed a fabulous morning of French instruction including lots of silly songs and games. It was so much fun it hardly felt like learning.

The activity groups headed into Vallon Pont D’Arc for a morning of wandering a French town and a little bit of shopping.

A tasty lunch had everyone pumped up for the mini descent of the river. Campers strapped on their buoyancy aids and helmets before hopping into canoes to descend 6 km down the gorgeous Ardèche river.

After being guided through four sets of rapids by their brave Village Camps staff, campers paddled under the famous Pont D’Arc, a natural rock archway soaring above the river.

Following a swim and chocolate break to re-energize, the campers paddled on to the pickup point and returned to camp for a well earned and delightful dinner.

After dinner, campers spent the evening learning how to play “Gaga Ball” and football, involving running, hiding and general hilarity.

Everyone went to bed for a much needed rest before the big trips on Friday!