Early September saw the ltadventure team off on another adventure. The location…….. The Allier!

In the Massif Central, South of France, you will find a little gem of a river, known simple as, the Allier. The Allier is a river with a big reputation that Chris had been longing to do for some time.  He had always missed out on trips to the Allier for some reason.  The river has 3 sections worth checking out and definately a whole week if you want to do the lot.
Dark granite outcrops create the back drop to this stunning gorge. The rock is very dark in colour and has been known to catch people out over the years. It hides just below the surface and just as you are paddling down, you glance up to admire the view and BANG! You’ve hit a rock, capsised and are now wet and struggling to find your sense of humour. Those around you however are having the time of their lifes. They did’t get caught out and are watching the carnage unfold. Smiling, ready to jump in and help if its needed, but smiling non the less.

The team arrived very late at night next to the put in and pitched their tents. A ging gang gooly, a box of wine and loads of excitment for the coming days followed.  Allthough it had been just a few hours from Blue and Yak’s houses, Chris’s  journey down there had started a few days earlier when he made the drive down to the Ardechewith his canoe strapped to the top of his car.  It had been more than eventful with a breakdown that threatened to stop the trip, but by one way or another, they had all made it to the get on. The section they were paddling was the Nouveau Monde to Pont d’ Alleyras section.  42 rapids in 18Km. Although possable in a day, much more fun over two.

So two days it was, with a bivy at the side of the river half way down.  They were carrying quite a bit of kit, as any idiot can be uncomfortable, and Chris had inherited Yak’s gear as he was paddling a kayak.  “Its all about the Bivy” Is a phrase that has become used more and more over the year. It certainly is true. A time to share stories around a fire and enjoy good company under the stars.

The team were blessed with great water levels and outstanding bright, hot sunshine.  For anyone paddling the Allier, you should refer to Meteo France for water levels.  If the water level is above 0.6, then it is runnable.  Day one on this trip, it was running at 0.65.  Day 2 it was about 0.75.  Excellent levels with testing rapids.

All in all a great paddle trip.  Check out the video.