Canoeing and kayaking on Gudenåen
Photo: Francesca Dolnier
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!
Below you will find ...
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.
Photo: Mark Trustrup
Try a cosy kayak tour on Gudenåen
Photo: Danmarks Outdoor Festival
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.
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Map
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 accommodatio...
Bo Bozz Nørgaard
Photo: Bo Bozz Nørgaard
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 fo...
In a canoe down Denmark’s longest stream, Gudenåen
The second you climb on board a canoe to sail down the Gudenåen stream, unforgettable quality time kicks in.
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,...
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.
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Map
Silkeborg Kanocenter
At Silkeborg Canoe Center you can all year round rent canoes, kayaks and motor boats. You can enjoy the canoes, kayaks and motor boats just for an hour, on a one-day trip or for multiple days.
Boat Rental by Ly Outdoor Camp
Rent a boat by Ly Outdoor Camp and enjoy the beautifully situated and child-friendly campsite directly down to the Gudenå, close to Silkeborg (about 2 km) and near many attractions.
Canoe rentals - Silkeborg Sø Camping & Feriehuse
Silkeborg Sø Camping & Feriehuse has 8 canoes for rent on site. Renting canoes for up to a whole day, where you get the opportunity to sail up the Gudenåen towards the sky.
Skyttehusets Outdoor Camp
Photo: Skyttehusets Outdoor Camp
Canoe and boat rental by Skyttehusets Outdoor Camp
You will find Skyttehusets Outdoor Camp in the centre of Denmark's most beautiful and versatile nature by the Silkeborg lakes. There is ample opportunities for outdoor activities - both on the lakes ...
Canoe and boat rental at Kyst- and Fjordcentret
At the Fjord Center by Randers Fjord you can rent canoes, kayaks and boats. You will get both safety instructions and and recommendations for your trip.
Canoe rental at Bamsebo Camping
Are you ready to explore the Gudenå in a canoe? At Bamsebo Camping you can hire a canoe and even have it delivered and collected. It's the perfect option for a fun and convenient experience on the wat...
Canoe Rental by Randers Fjord Feriecenter
Randers Fjord Feriecenter rents out 3 person canoes and a big 4 person canoe.
Hav&Fjord - boat rental
Experience Danish nature from a new perspective. At Hav&Fjord you can rent SUP boards and sea kayaks for a fun day out for the whole family.
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. ...
KAYAKOMAT - Kayak and SUP rental
KAYAKOMAT in Silkeborg offers self-service kayak and SUP rental. KAYAKOMAT is open 24/7, so you can easily and conveniently rent a kayak or SUP board 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.
Map of the river Gudenå
Oplevgudenå.dk
Photo: OplevGudenaa.dk
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.
