Stand Up Paddle Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
/Stand Up Paddle or SUP is my way of getting back onto the water as we are a bit too far away from the ocean here in Beaulieu. A love of water sports led me to try this and I took to it like a duck to water. I like the feel of standing on the board while paddling, sort of like surfing as you are standing on water-freedom. As you are standing you can see so much more not just all around you but into the water. I have seen several brown eels and various size fish. I enjoy paddling as each time I go out its a new adventure. My board is light weight and I can easily load it onto our Kangoo. The simplicity too is this sport does not require a lot of gear to hassle with. Just a board, leash, paddle and pfd is all you need to get paddling.
I chose an inflatable board after reading about all the different types on the market. Deflated it fits neatly into a specially made backpack that also has wheels in the base so you can travel with it. I am extremely pleased with my RedPaddle 10'8 Ride. I have used it on several lakes and now am staying local and paddling on the Dordogne River just a few minutes from home.
In Beaulieu easy water access is in front of the swimming pool or on the quayside. In summer the water is calm but of course there is a bit of current as it is a river! It is a nice paddle upstream to the first set of rapids as the river is lined with trees on both banks.
October 15 & 16 2016 is the Dordogne Paddle Race. It is the events 2nd year and I think the number of entries will be higher this year due to its popularity. I have entered the Open 8Km race so better stop typing and get paddling!
Early morning paddle after heavy rain the night before, peaceful.
Beautiful reflections
Having fun :)