A partner from the beginning, totally dedicated to the promotion of canoeing in France. Canoe Diffusion distributes Esquif canoes, famous Canadian brand. This year again, he will propose nearly 20 models to test during the Festival! A big thank you to Pierre Orban / Canoe Diffusion for his support.

North America’s best canoes have always supported Europe’s best Festival ! The canoe manufacturer from Quebec contributes to the promotion of canoeing in France and Europe with an impressive range of 25 boats dedicated to all kind of paddling style : from calm water tripping to the wildest rivers, from family touring to the most remote expeditions.

Organizer of the Open Canoe Festival, Paul Villecourt is a photographer and journalist specializing in adventure sports and outdoor tourism. Photography and journalism for press, communication and advertising, publishing, tourism, nautical industries, products and services dedicated to adventure sports and Outdoor tourism. Stock and assignments.

The campsite is stretched out along two riverbanks, in the middle of various landscapes and in the heart of a small village of the Drôme valley. In a beautiful green environment, the campsite offers you a direct access to the Drôme river for a nice swim and to enjoy a relaxing and natural spot. You can easily discover our region following your own pace; the natural reserve called « Parc Naturel du Vercors », the villages between the vineyards, the lavender fields, the sunflower fields and the colourful markets... or let yourself be tempted by a ride down the river with a canoe or kayak, hiking and biking or horse riding... See you soon !

In giving its name to the department, the river Drôme has given it its diversity, between Vercors and Provence, and its authentic character. Crossing its territory from east to west, it takes the walker to discover preserved sites and landscapes. It is also ideal for canoeing, as previous editions of this young festival have shown. As a major player in the development of the region, the Department, thanks to its work in the areas of water management, nature sports and natural environments, enables all users of the river to enjoy an exceptional environment.

"People who give examples of adventurous life, people who want to organise an event under the sign of adventure: these are the people we want to work with". This is how our partner "Eventipi" presents its mission on their website. When we discovered this company, it was love at first sight! The Open Canoe Festival is therefore particularly proud to work with Eventipi, which will be sheltering Festival-goers in a magnificent complex of giant teepees!

What look could be more attuned to the Festival and its values? Many thanks to Alain Heit and his team.

"Creating gear for paddlers and water professionals since 1979, including clothing, equipment and accessories. Founded in Somerset by champion surf kayaker, Andy Knight. Designed and made in Great Britain and our factories in Asia – distributed worldwide."

It's a great pleasure to have Palm on board at the Open Canoe Festival. Famous British brand will provide fantastic prizes for the big prize lottery.

A big thank you to the Val de Drôme en Biovallée Community of Communes for its invaluable support in two key areas:

• All of our environmental education workshops (focused on wildlife, plants, geology, and the history of the Drôme Valley) are led by the Gare des Ramières, the visitor center for the national nature reserve. As a place of conservation, education, and outreach, the Gare des Ramières is a flagship facility of the Val de Drôme en Biovallée Community of Communes.

• Since 2025, the Val de Drôme en Biovallée Community of Communes has granted us access to the lake at the Écosite d’Eurre, where we are finally able to offer our flat water workshops.

A thousand thanks to the CCVD!

A partner from the beginning, totally dedicated to the promotion of canoeing in France. Canoe Diffusion distributes Esquif canoes, famous Canadian brand. This year again, he will propose nearly 20 models to test during the Festival! A big thank you to Pierre Orban / Canoe Diffusion for his support.

Gan Assurances Crest

A big thank you to Intermarché Aouste, faithful sponsor of the Festival since the beginning. It contributes greatly to the 3 meals of the weekend.

Communauté de Communes du Crestois et du Pays de Saillans.

Thank you to the municipality that hosts the Open Canoe Festival. The help of its technical services allows us to save precious energy during this very intense weekend.

Safran Tours is a French agency specializing in slow travel: hiking, cycling trips, and gentle itineraries across France. For over 25 years, it has designed tailor-made journeys that combine the discovery of preserved landscapes, local heritage, and authentic experiences. The agency takes care of all logistics — accommodation, luggage transport, equipment rental, and travel assistance — so every adventure is simple and stress-free. With its responsible itineraries and GPS app, Safran Tours allows travelers to explore independently while respecting the environment and local territories. Whether on foot, by bike, or on a donkey trek, every journey promises a change of scenery, true immersion, and unforgettable memories.

“Au fil de l’eau en France”, published by Lonely Planet: 5,000 copies already sold! Order yours now!
A book (in French) by Paul Villecourt, organizer of the Open Canoe Festival.

Through the stories of 50 adventures, this book invites you to explore France’s lakes, rivers, and seas. Whether it’s a multi-day canoe trip or a wildlife-watching outing on a paddleboard, water becomes a fascinating pathway to discovery. It also offers an ideal playground, with rapids for rafting and waterfalls perfect for diving.

Guided by the words of Paul Villecourt and other Lonely Planet authors, you’ll be taken through spectacular places such as the Allier Gorges, the coasts of Belle-Île-en-Mer, and the banks of the Loire. Each story is enriched with practical information: recommended duration, ideal season, local specialties, and accommodation options.

In addition, each adventure comes with three extra suggestions, making this book a true reservoir of ideas for discovering France along its waterways. Whether you’re a fan of slow tourism or seeking thrilling experiences, this book will meet your desire for escape.

Ideally located on the Embrun lake, Eau Vive Embrun is a sports club that welcomes anyone who wants to try canoeing and kayaking in the Hautes-Alpes, regardless of their age or goals. In summer, the club opens its doors to everyone to share its members' passion. Kayaking, rafting, canorafting, paddleboarding... come and enjoy our whitewater activities in Embrun, on the Durance River and on Lake Serre-Ponçon.