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
Gudenåen from Bjerringbro to Randers is a lovely stretch of the stream that is perfect for children as well as visitors who are not yet particularly familiar with spending time on the water.
Paddle Down the Gudenåen Stream: From Klostermølle to Silkeborg
Experience Gudenåen while sailing serenely on the water and be mesmerised by the stunning surroundings. Along this stretch of the stream, you will meet amazing lakes, a great selection of accommodation, and not least: the world’s oldest paddle steamer.
Paddle Down the Gudenåen Stream: From Silkeborg to Bjerringbro
Paddle down Gudenåen from Silkeborg to Bjerringbro. Along this stretch, you will have a great view of the surrounding scenery just as you will have some wonderful options when it comes to delicious food and comfortable accommodation along the way.
In a canoe down Denmark’s longest stream, Gudenåen
Randers Nature Center and Gudenå Park
Randers Nature Center is located in Gådenå Park, which is a large natural area near the Gudenå River, less than 1 km from the center of Randers. The area was originally part of the Gudenå River delta, which previously filled the entire Gudenå Valley with tributaries, canals, and wetlands.
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
At Silkeborg Canoe Center you can rent all needed for water sports; family canoe, sea kayak, motor boat etc. There is something for everyone.
Boat Rental by Ly Outdoor Camp
At Ly Outdoor Camp in Silkeborg you can rent your canoe. There are 4 canoes with 2 seats in each, available. It is also possible to borrow a extra seat for the canoes. Find prices and much more.
Canoe rentals - Silkeborg Sø Camping & Feriehuse
If you just want to sail for an hour or two, then Silkeborg Langsø is obvious for this purpose.
Canoe and boat rental by Skyttehusets Outdoor Camp
If you want to experience Silkeborg from the water, Skyttehusets Outdoor Camp can help you with canoes or motorboat rentals. Have a different and fun day with the whole family on the water.
Canoe and boat rental at Kyst- and Fjordcentret
At the Fjord Center you can rent canoes, kayaks and boats. You will get both safety instructions and and recommendations for your trip.
Canoe rental at Bamsebo Camping
Bamsebo Camping has a beautiful location right by the Danish river Gudenåen. Here are lots of different activities to choose from, both on the river and on the campsite where you find a pool, petanque, beachvolley, a playground and lots more.
Hav&Fjord - boat rental
Outdoor Bjerringbro
Outdoor Bjerringbro is a canoe and mountain-bike rental shop that provides great experiences in the countryside. Be part of nature in an energising and active way with wind blowing through your hair. Your friends and family will thank you for bringing them along, as well.
KAYAKOMAT - Kayak and SUP rental
Rent a SUP board or a kayak at KAYAKOMAT in Silkeborg. KAYAKOMAT is a self-service facility that is open 24/7, so you can easily and simply rent a kayak or SUP-board that you can use to sail around scenic Silkeborg.
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.
