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Playspot: France, North, Donchery, River Meuse, Pont de Meuse à Donchery.

What's it like

Three waves under the bridge in Donchery :

• a small green wave, about 2 meters wide and 80 cms high just under the small arch on the right hand side (looking upstream).
• two big waves/stoppers, depending on the water level. About 6-8 m wide and more than 1 m high at high level. They are located under the two main arches.
• the last two arches are not really interesting for playing but allow you to paddle upstream the bridge and try wavewheels.

Do not surf the stopper just below the dam (river right, see 1st picture) for two reasons:

1. it's private.
2. the stopper can be nasty and very dangerous (shallow and strong recirculation).

How to get there

From Belgium (Bouillon) go to Sedan (France) via the E46.

From France follow direction Reims and then the A203 to Charleville-Mezieres. Then follow Sedan if you are in Charleville and vice versa. Leave the motorway at the Donchery exit and follow the city center indications. Cross the village and you are on the bridge (located on the road D24). You can park your car on a field on the left bank (flooded at high water levels).

More info

The water level is very important (the spot can be flat). Check it by phoning Fabrice (French speaking, president of the local kayak club): +33 3 24260274.

More info is also available from JP Renaud.

Locals

There is a good possibility to meet some fishermen near the car park. Be polite!

People use to watch the playboaters, i.e. there are often spectators on the bridge.

Info sources

JP Renaud