7 great kayak spots in Europe to cool off in the summer!
This summer is once again one of the warmest in years. While the heat keeps setting new records, we try everything to cool down.
One finds refreshment in ice-cold drinks, the other dips his feet in the sea, a third wishes for autumn. We at Outchair remain true to nature as outdoor lovers and seek our refreshment sportily by kayaking!
In addition to its famous historical sites full of art and culture, Europe is crisscrossed by hundreds of rivers that flow in and out of just as many lakes, offering kayakers of all experience levels, from beginner to expert, opportunities to experience this water-based sport in gorgeous settings. Here are our top 7 most beautiful areas and rivers in Europe for kayaking:
Photo: lauramalvaso.com
- River Tarn, France
The Tarn is a 381 km long river that crosses the south of France. On its way, it flows through 65 km of picturesque gorges that are among the deepest in all of Europe. A kayak tour through these gorges offers incredible views of some of the most scenic parts of France.
You can experience both shorter tours with class I and II rapids and kayak adventures with class III rapids on this river. Of course, there are always nice campsites, so you can plan a tour of several days.
- Lake Saimaa, Finland
The Saimaa River is one of the largest freshwater bodies in Europe. It has an extensive network of interconnected lakes and rivers that have earned it the nickname "the paddler's paradise".
Here you'll find everything from raging rapids to completely calm, crystal clear lakes with exceptionally clean water.
Although there are many small guesthouses and hotels in the region, many people choose to camp in the nature around Saimaa, which is allowed here. And with such a large area of pristine rivers, lakes and islands to explore, a trip here feels like a real wilderness adventure.
- River Hvítá, Iceland
Water is an omnipresent force in Iceland, a country famous for its thermal springs and volcanoes and offering countless opportunities for kayaking. Northeast of Reykjavik, the Hvítá River rises in the Langjökull Glacier and flows through class II rapids in gorges and waterfalls. Here you can face a new challenge while admiring beautiful landscapes.
Photo: npo3.nl
- Soča River, Slovenia
The Soča with its emerald green color is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe. Here you can paddle through class II rapids on a trip between Bled and Radovljica or experience a more intense adrenaline rush with class III and IV rapids, which are already more suitable for rafting.
Slovenia is a true paradise for outdoor adventurers, known for its mountains and forests and the Soča River. Here, too, there is a variety of beautiful campsites.
- Noce River, Italy
The Noce, thanks to its difficult conditions, is one of the most famous-brutal rivers for the sport of kayaking in Italy. The river flows through the Val di Sole in the Brenta Dolomites. In the upper part of the river you can find class III and IV rapids, and in the lower part difficult class V white water. The river rises on the highest mountain peaks, so its water is ice cold, ideal for those who want to escape the summer heat.
This area is also very popular with hikers.
Photo: raftingvaldisole.it
- Sella River, Spain
The Sella flows through the Asturias region from the Picos de Europa to the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic Ocean. This river is the perfect choice for beginners, novices and advanced kayakers. Some sections are calm and gentle, offering a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful views, but further along the river you will also find river sections with class I and II rapids, as well as sections with class III rapids, passing through the towns of Arriondas and Llovio.
- Lakelands, Ireland
Ireland is one of the most welcoming countries in the world for kayakers. It's suitable for all skill levels, and you don't even need a permit for most routes. There are fantastic lakes and rivers all over the country, as well as a network of canals.
One of the most famous kayaking spots is Loch Erne, but there are also many smaller, hidden gems to discover in this region that are suitable for all levels of kayakers.
These rivers are peppered with breathtaking waterfalls, large and small rapids, tranquil lakes and towering pine forests.
Well, have we awakened your desire for the cool water in a small kayak?