Watersports to do in Provence

There are hundred of options for canoeing and kayaking in Provence, stretching from the Ardeche gorge all the way down into central Provence along the Durance river and across to the Gorges du Verdon. Whether you're looking to spend a few hours with the family on the river, or a multi-day trip with overnight stays on the river banks, there are plenty of companies offering all kinds of packages.

There is some lovely snorkelling to be had around the coast of the French Riviera. There are plenty of the dive schools in St Tropez, Cannes and Antibes can sort you out with equipment if you don't have your own. The same areas used for diving are also suitable for snorkelling if you feel like trying that before you commit to diving.

Again the ports and marinas of the French Riviera are the perfect place to go sailing or charter a yacht for a day, a week...or even a month.

You can moor up between the rich and famous during the Cannes film festival or the Monte Carlo rally. And what better way to experience the coastal towns than to sail along and stop in at each one.

An alternative for wakeboarders is the cable-ski which is available in a lot of the big lakes across Provence. They have a slow and gentle pull for beginners, and kickers and sliders for those who know what they're doing.

Jetski rental can be found at most sailing centres. You don't need a license for this activity but you must follow some straightforward rules: Stay 250m away from beaches and 50m from cliffs, 100m from other jetskis and 50m from diving buoys. It's a legal requirement to wear a life-jacket.

There are wind surfing and kite surfing schools at several of the large lakes and it's also possible to hire equipment without tuition.