Summer Camp Ardèche, France
And on we paddle
After a night sleep (and a brief splash of rain) with the stars above our heads, we began with an efficient approach to breakfast by using yoghurt pottles for cereal and juice, having polished off the yoghurt itself. The team then banded together to collect all the gear from the camp site, and make their way down to the river for the second day of The Grande Descente!
Several fantastic rapids were met early on, to wake any bleary eyed campers. Our mid morning stop had everyone get their thinking caps on, to work together to participate in the raft race to beat all raft races. Campers were split into 2 groups, and within their teams they had to construct a raft, utilizing all their boats, carrying all their paddles and gear, and must be able to deconstruct the raft successfully on the water at the finish line. A big task. But the challenge was taken on and with great skills and imagination. Great work!
Paddling on, we welcomed the incoming cloud cover to relieve us of the warm sun as we cruised through the beautiful, winding gorge. The time for lunch arrived so we went ashore for welcomed food and rest. A few hours spent here saw campers snoozing, chatting and relaxing, but only when not swimming down rapids and making rock towers!
Winding our way through the last leg of the day, campers paddled strong, enjoying the incoming stormy weather and rain. A chocolate and biscuit refuel was earned in the afternoon with the game Pass the Rock, and it helped get through the final straight. Reward shall benefit those who persevere, and cool drink was awaiting us at the finish, with thanks to Alain (our maintenance dude and all round great guy).
Smiles abound on a great couple of days, we made it back to camp for a delicious meal (thank you once again master chef, Andrew) and Talent Night. Campers performed circus tricks, songs and comedy acts, to much applause, laughter and re-energized vibes.
With a cool change in weather, campers trundled off to bed, happy, but tired, and ready for good nights sleep.
- Breakfast: Cereal, yoghurt & bread
- Lunch: Baguette, salad, meat, cheese & fruit
- Dinner: Kebabs, rice, sauce, salad & creme brulee
- Subject to change. Vegetarian options always available.
Click here for more information about Summer Camp nutrition
Latest photos from Ardèche, France
- Raft Race
- Canoeing
- Rapid Swimming
- Talent Night
