If you’re planning a trip to the Belgian Ardennes, kayaking and canoeing are two activities that you can’t miss out on. The region offers some of the best waterways in Belgium that are suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about kayaking and canoeing in the Belgian Ardennes.
Before you go on a Kayaking adventure
Before heading out on your kayaking adventure, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, not all rivers are suitable for kayaking, and water levels can play a significant role in whether kayaking is allowed or not. It’s essential to check real-time updates on the water levels of the rivers you plan on kayaking on. You can do so by visiting http://kayak.environnement.wallonie.be/public/home?lang=en.
Kayaking and Canoeing on the Ourthe river
The Ourthe River is 165km long and runs through the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, passing through several picturesque towns such as Houffalize, La-Roche-en-Ardenne, Hotton, Barveaux, Durbuy, Hamoir, and Esneux. It’s the perfect river for beginners to hone their skills, but it’s also a great spot for experienced kayakers to take in the stunning natural beauty of the region. There are several kayaking companies that offer guided tours on the Ourthe River.
Departure | Arrival | Distance | Company |
Durbuy | Barvaux | 8km | Adventure Valley |
Noiseux | Durbuy | 12km | Adventure Valley |
Hotton | Durbuy | 23km | Adventure Valley |
Grand-Han | Durbuy | 6km | Durbuy Kajak |
Durbuy | Barvaux | 8km | Durbuy Kajak |
Noiseux | Durbuy | 12km | Durbuy Kajak |
Hotton | Durbuy | 23km | Durbuy Kajak |
La Roche en Ardenne | Juprille | 8km | Brandsport |
La Roche en Ardenne | Hampteau | 15km | Brandsport |
Maboge | La Roche en Ardenne | Ardenne Adventures | |
Nisramont | La Roche en Ardenne | Ardenne Adventures | |
Hamoir | Comblain-Au-Pont | 8km | Kayak Remous |
Bomal | Hamoir | 10km | Kayak Remous |
Barvaux | Hamoir | 15km | Kayak Remous |
Barvaux | Comblain-au-Pont | 25km | Kayak Remous |
Kayaking and Canoeing on the Semois river
The Semois River is another great spot for kayaking and canoeing in the Belgian Ardennes. It’s ideal for beginners, and there are several kayaking companies that offer guided tours on this river as well
Departure | Arrival | Distance | Company |
Poupehan | Frahan | 4km | Semois Kayaks |
Bouillon | Poupehan | 15km | Semois Kayaks |
Bouillon | Frahan | 19km | Semois Kayaks |
Poupehan | Alle | 12km | Kayaks La Vanne |
Alle | Vresse | 7km | Kayaks La Vanne |
Alle | Membre | 12km | Kayaks La Vanne |
Alle | Bohan | 20km | Kayaks La Vanne |
Kayaking and Canoeing on the Lesse river
The Lesse River is ideal for experienced paddlers looking for a bit more excitement. It has several small waterfalls and is known for its fast currents
Departure | Arrival | Distance | Company |
Gendron | Anseremme | 12km | Dinant Evasion – Lesse Kayaks |
Houyet | Anseremme | 21km | Dinant Evasion – Lesse Kayaks |
Houyet | Gendron | 9km | Dinant Evasion – Lesse Kayaks |
Conclusion
Kayaking and canoeing in the Belgian Ardennes offer a unique and exciting way to explore the region’s natural beauty. With the right preparation and safety precautions, you can enjoy a memorable and safe paddling experience. So, get ready to hit the water and discover the hidden gems of the Belgian Ardennes.