Explore Lac des Vieilles Forges by Canoe or Kayak
Paddle across the calm waters of the largest lake in the Ardennes and discover its wild coves.
A perfect activity for families, friends, or groups — no experience required.
Capacity
140 spots
Large canoe & kayak fleet
Audience
Families & groups
Tailored safety briefing
Age
6 years & up
Child + adult & 25 m swim required
Weight
120 kg max
Per person (life jacket limit)
Lake
150 ha
Largest lake in the Ardennes
Rating
⭐ 4.9 / 5
Average score on TripAdvisor
Experience
Since 2013
Water sports specialist
Fleet
Canoes & kayaks
For beginners & sports enthusiasts
Audience
Families & groups
Full safety briefing provided
At a Glance
Activity Type Self-guided canoe & kayak rental on a calm lake
Duration Options 1 h, 2 h or more depending on availability
Equipment Included Vessel, paddle(s), life jacket(s), waterproof barrel
Level Required Beginners welcome — no current, no rapids
Safety ISO 12402-5 buoyancy aid provided & compulsory
Who Can Join Solo, couples, families, groups, seminars & organisations
Discover Lac des Vieilles Forges by Canoe & Kayak
Get a feel for the lake: nature, hidden coves, and wide stretches of peaceful water…
Choose Your Canoe & Kayak Package
Indicative prices. Exact availability is shown on the booking widget below.
Solo Kayak — Free Exploration
Single-seat kayak, perfect for a dynamic and sporty outing.
- Double paddle & ISO 12402-5 life jacket included
- Calm, current-free lake accessible to beginners
- Ideal for solo exploration of the coves
Family Canoe — 2–3 People
The friendly option to share the same boat with your group.
- Stable canoe suitable for children (6 years & up)
- Children’s & adult life jackets included
- Perfect for a discovery loop as a family
Sunset Guided Paddle
A premium small-group outing accompanied by our team.
- Guided 2 h to 2 h 30 session
- Golden-hour atmosphere on the lake
- Nature commentary & local heritage insights
Availability & Online Booking
Select your time slot below — secure payment & instant confirmation.
Why Canoe or Kayak at Lac des Vieilles Forges?
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A large, calm lake — no current
150-hectare enclosed body of water, ideal for a first canoe or kayak experience. No current, no rapids — just pure enjoyment.
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100% natural setting
Forest surrounds the entire lake, with wild coves and quiet spots to soak up the scenery.
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Safety & briefing before every departure
Safety briefing, ISO 12402-5 life jacket fitting and lake rules recap before each launch.
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Something for everyone
Sporty kayaks or stable family canoes — everyone finds their own pace on the water.
Good to know
• In July–August, the most popular slots are 2 pm–5 pm.
• Arrive early to park, get equipped and complete the briefing.
• If weather conditions prevent the outing, we’ll offer you a rescheduled session later in the season.
Practical Information & What to Bring
- Age 6+ (accompanied by an adult).
- Must be able to swim 25 m and submerge.
- Max weight: 120 kg / person (safety limit).
- Life jacket compulsory at all times on the water.
- Clothes you don’t mind getting wet + a change of clothes.
- Closed-toe shoes (mandatory).
- Summer: water, cap, sunscreen.
- Cooler weather: windproof jacket recommended.
- Large car park immediately adjacent.
- Public toilets & picnic tables available.
- Also available: Pedal boats, Paddle boards, Mountain bikes, Electric scooters.
- Booking via Guidap.
What Our Guests Say
★★★★★
“A wonderful sporty afternoon — great organisation, a very friendly team and a stunning setting.”
— TripAdvisor review
★★★★★
“Welcoming and patient staff — a fantastic family day on the lake in a beautiful environment. We’ll definitely be back!”
— TripAdvisor review
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a canoe and a kayak?
In a kayak, you paddle with a double-bladed paddle — more sporty and agile. A canoe seats 2–3 people using single-bladed paddles and is ideal for families thanks to its extra stability.
Is Lac des Vieilles Forges suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. It’s an enclosed lake with no current, making it perfect for a first experience. A full safety briefing is given before every departure.
Do I need to book in advance?
In July and August especially, advance booking is the best way to secure your preferred time slot. Outside peak season, walk-ins may be possible subject to availability.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If conditions make the outing unsafe, we’ll offer you a free reschedule at another point during the season.
What languages does your team speak?
Our team speaks French and English and will be happy to assist you in both languages throughout your visit.