The Open Canoe Festival is featured in the pages of the German magazine Paddle Power, which has published a multi-page report dedicated to the Drôme River and our gathering.

Under the evocative title “Stechpaddel-Paradies im französischen Süden” — “Single-Blade Paradise in the South of France” — the article immerses its readers in the heart of the Drôme Valley and captures the unique atmosphere that defines the Festival.
The report highlights the richness of the programme, the diversity of workshops, and the truly international dimension of the event, which brings together several hundred paddlers from across Europe each year. It also conveys the spirit that drives the OCF: technical excellence on the water, a strong culture of knowledge-sharing, convivial evenings at the campsite, and a shared river ethos that transcends borders. The beauty of the natural setting — clear water, alpine landscapes and characterful villages — naturally plays a central role in the story.

This publication represents a meaningful recognition of the entire community that brings the Open Canoe Festival to life — participants, coaches, partners and volunteers alike — and reflects the growing interest across Europe for canoe touring and river itinerancy.

We warmly thank the editorial team of Paddle Power, as well as the author of the article, Raphael Kuner, one of our most distinguished coaches, for his committed and passionate perspective on the Drôme and on the collective adventure that the OCF represents.

The article can be viewed by clicking on the PDF link below.