Canoeing and kayaking on Gudenåen
Plan an unforgettable canoe or kayak trip in Jutland's longest waterway, Gudenåen. Here you can enjoy amazing nature experiences with family or friends. Hop in the canoe with extra space for luggage and packed lunches, or jump in the kayak for speed and agility - adventure awaits!
How about a canoe trip in Jutland?
A dream canoeing holiday starts with the right destination, and Gudenåen in Jutland is the perfect choice. Pack light, but remember the essentials - tent, sleeping bag, a good packed lunch and of course sunscreen. The canoe gives you plenty of space for both luggage and small breaks along the way where you can enjoy nature at your own pace.
Imagine waking up by the riverbank, surrounded by birdsong and tranquillity. The day starts early, while the mist still hovers over the water and you slowly glide through the beautiful landscape. Gudenåen offers several great accommodation options along the way, from primitive campsites to cosy inns and bed & breakfasts. With family or friends by your side, every day will be a new adventure - maybe a stop at a small island for lunch or a swim to cool off.
A dream canoeing holiday isn't just about rowing, it's about unwinding from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and letting nature fill your senses.
Try a cosy kayak tour on Gudenåen
A kayak trip on the Gudenåen river is the perfect way to experience the beautiful nature of Jutland up close. With a kayak, you will glide easily through the water while enjoying the silence and rich wildlife along the banks of the river. You can take the trip alone and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature or invite a few friends along for a cosy day on the water.
The kayak is both fast and agile, so you can cover large distances at your own pace. Along the way, you can take small breaks on the banks, enjoy your packed lunch or take a dip in the river or in one of the clear fresh bathing lakes. Gudenåen has several idyllic rest areas where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced kayaker, Gudenåen offers a cosy and unforgettable experience. Here you can relax from everyday life and feel the freedom of being on the water - alone or with good friends.
Tour suggestions
Get inspired for one of the most popular kayak or canoe trips on Gudenåen - or ask one of the boat rental companies above for a more detailed tour.
Paddle Down the Gudenåen Stream: From Bjerringbro to Randers
Paddle Down the Gudenåen Stream: From Klostermølle to Silkeborg
Paddle Down the Gudenåen Stream: From Silkeborg to Bjerringbro
In a canoe down Denmark’s longest stream, Gudenåen
Randers Nature Center and Gudenå Park
Boat Rental
Find your next adventurous trip on the water with one of the many boat hire companies along the river Gudenåen. Whether you prefer a canoe, kayak or motorboat, there are plenty of opportunities to experience Jutland's beautiful nature from the water.
Silkeborg Kanocenter
Boat Rental by Ly Outdoor Camp
Canoe rentals - Silkeborg Sø Camping & Feriehuse
Canoe and boat rental by Skyttehusets Outdoor Camp
Canoe and boat rental at Kyst- and Fjordcentret
Canoe rental at Bamsebo Camping
Hav&Fjord - boat rental
Outdoor Bjerringbro
KAYAKOMAT - Kayak and SUP rental
Tips and recommendations
Are you a beginner? Do you know the rules? Are there any particularly good swimming spots? And where can I find the best accommodation? Get inspired below.
Gudenåen on a map
Oplevgudenaa.dk is one big universe with inspiration and information for boating, angling, hiking and much more.
Frequently asked questions about sailing
These are often the same questions you face when going canoeing or kayaking for the first time. Get answers below or use the chat in the bottom left corner for quick answers based on information on our website.
Who is steering and who provides propulsion in a canoe?
The person steering sits at the back of the canoe. To turn right, put the paddle in the water on the left side and pull back - and vice versa. To brake the canoe, put the paddle in the water behind you and pull the paddle forwards.
The front person acts as the ‘motor’ by paddling on the same side for longer periods of time at a steady, even pace. The person at the back (the coxswain) steers the canoe and keeps the pace while taking small steering strokes. If there are three paddlers, the two in front are the motor.
How long does it take to travel 15 km in a canoe?
The time it takes to canoe varies greatly - so depending on your fitness, experience, the weather and whether you are travelling with children, you can expect a speed of 3-4 km/h. This means you can cover a distance of around 10-20 kilometres per day.
Can you fall over in a canoe?
Yes, you can fall over in a canoe. That's why it's always important that everyone wears a life jacket when travelling in a canoe or kayak. If you do fall over, make sure you don't stand in front of the canoe, as you could get caught between an obstacle in the river and the canoe.
What does a canoe weigh?
A standard canoe weighs approximately 50kg, but can vary depending on size and material.
Where do you sit in a canoe?
The co-pilot sits at the back, luggage is packed from the centre forward and the co-passenger sits at the front. Children under 30kg can sit in the centre.
How many people can sit in a canoe?
Most canoes have room for 2 people and luggage for several days, but you can also rent canoes with room for 3 people or 2 children up to 30kg.
How many kg can a canoe carry?
A canoe can carry up to about 400kg, but the heavier it is, the more unsafe it becomes on the water.
How far can you canoe in a day?
It varies greatly how far you can sail in a day. Depending on your physical condition, experience, weather and whether you have children with you, you can expect a speed of 3-4 km/h and thus achieve a distance of between 10-20 km per day.
