Kayaking is one of the most popular water sports in the world. People around the world not only consider kayaking as a sport but also as a medium of relaxation and recreation. Moreover, some people travel around the world, focusing on one thing: kayaking.
Europe has some amazing places to travel and paddle kayaks. These places are surrounded by natural beauty, remarkable scenery, beautiful water, and warm weather almost year-round. This is why Europe has some of the best places in the world to go kayaking. These places are perfect for nearly every preference and skill level as you will get chance of kayaking from rivers to bays to the open sea. Here is the list of some of the top areas to go kayaking in Europe.
Venice Canals, Italy
Italy has some beautiful and historical places to visit, and Venice is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Italy to explore its beauty. You will have a unique experience when kayaking through the canals of Venice. You will get the chance of paddling through the maze of waterways where you can enjoy the historical atmosphere and explore the diverse and rich Venetian architecture in a unique way kayak wheel cart.
Bohuslan, Sweden
Bohuslan, the coastal strip of Sweden is considered as the paradise for kayakers. This coastal strip starts from Gothenburg and reaches up to the Norway border. There are about eight thousand beautiful islands on this long stretch. There are little fishing villages situated by the coastline of Bohuslan, and it adds an exceptional appeal and character to the surrounds. The water of Bohuslan is cleaner than the air. While kayaking in Bohuslan the enthralling views around you will make you feel as if you are in the haven. If you are beginner’s level kayakers then there is nothing to worry as the water of Bohuslan is very calm, and you can enjoy kayaking here.
Albufeira, Portugal
Portugal has some amazing kayaking destination; Albufeira is one of them. In fact, it is one of the most exciting kayaking destinations of Europe. While kayaking in Albufeira, the magical islands, isolated bays, and the sparkling blue water will blow away your mind. You also can explore the inland upstream on the nearby Aljezur River. There are lot of places and things to explore in Albufeira that you will not get bored spending time here.
Vilamoura, Portugal
Vilamoura is another amazing place to kayak in Portugal. If you are a beginner level kayaker, then you will love this place. The water of Vilamoura is relatively calm, making it perfect for beginner kayaker. You will have the chance to explore the coves, bays, and the stunning coastline will make your kayaking trip mesmerizing. Those who don’t love water can enjoy cocktail on its beautiful beach while sunbathing.
Normandy, France
Located on the Varenne and Sarthe rivers, the prime kayaking destination in Normandy is Parc Naturel de Normandie-Maine. You can choose tours according to your holiday as both one day tours and multi-day tours are available with guides. You can hire kayaking equipment and well-trained guides there. If you are more into sea kayaking, then the Mont St-Michel is the one for you. The best thing about kayaking in Normandy is; the waters here are divided into a range of rapid grades. So as a kayaker you will have plenty of choices.
Soca Valley, Slovenia
The Soca Valley, also known as Soca River in Sloveniais an alpine river, consists of a 140-km.In Soca Valley you can have beautiful kayaking experience. The Soca River runs through Slovenia and Northern Italy. This river has an altitude of 1100 meters, and it streams past Triglav, the highest peak of Slovenia. While kayaking in the Soca Valley you will have the chance to explore the 2864-meters high Triglav. In fact Soca valley is world’s one of the highest paddling destinations. Soca valley provides a lot of rapid grades with tight sectors. So if you love challenges and want adventure in your kayaking then Soca Valley of Slovenia is the perfect destination for you.
Ardeche, France
Ardeche of France is a great kayaking destination in Europe where you can enjoy your summer holidays with your family. The summertime is beautiful here, and you will have the chance to enjoy a world-class kayaking journey. If you are a beginner kayaker then summer will be the best time to visit Ardeche. The water remains calm in summer, so if you want more challenge then visit Ardeche in the early spring, as the waters flow faster then. There are shops available to rent all the gears you need for kayaking.
West Coast of Scotland
The last on our list is the West coast of Scotland. This is another amazing place to visit and an exciting kayaking destination in Europe. You will have the chance to enjoy the stunning rocky arches, dramatic sea cliffs, and sparkling blue waters while kayaking through the west coast of Scotland. Tourists love this place for its outstanding natural beauty like the beautiful islands of the coast of Oban and the wide variety of geological landscapes. You can have both calm and exciting kayaking experience in west coast of Scotland as water of some parts of the coast is tranquil while others offer water with rapids.
Bottom Line
Finally, Europe offers a tremendous range of kayaking choices like sea kayaking, river kayaking, or lake kayaking. But all these kayaking destinationsis not for you because every kayaking spot requires a specific skill set. So before you set out on the water, make sure your skill level is good enough for that destination.
