Discover Unforgettable Canoeing Adventures for Families and Couples: Hidden Gems and Classic Escapes on the Water

The Berounka – a river that gained fame thanks to the writer and passionate fisherman Ota Pavel

If you’re new to paddling, the Berounka is a great choice! This river flows from Plzeň through Berounka to Černošice and offers a peaceful experience. If you don’t have a boat, you can easily rent an inflatable kayak from a local shop right at the starting point of the Berounka in Plzeň. If you’re not up for paddling the whole way, consider a three-day, relaxed journey along the Berounka starting from Liblín or Bohy. The Na rybárně campsite – Roztoky u Křivoklátu is great for beginners and families, guiding you through lovely countryside beneath the historic Krašov Castle, where you can even enjoy some small rapids. The river’s edges feature tall cliffs, grassy banks, and calm pools, perfect for swimming on warm days.

At the Nezabudka–Branov ferry crossing, you can check out the Ota Pavel memorial hall before facing some fun rapids leading up to the weir at Branov, which you need to navigate on the right side. You can finish your adventure at Roztoky u Křivoklátu, or choose to continue further through the scenic Křivoklát region, making your way towards Prague. Just before reaching Karlštejn, you’ll find a romantic place called Alkazar, a limestone quarry near Beroun. The Berounka is usually suitable for paddling throughout most of the year, with the minimum water levels being 85 cm for the upper section and 75 cm for the lower section (starting from Roztoky).

The Jizera – a river that showcases various experiences

Jizera is truly a multifaceted river. A great day trip would be Spálov – Dolánky, which is perfect for all types of paddlers. In this stretch, the Jizera rushes through the Bohemian Paradise region without any challenges above WW I. You can expect stunning panoramic views. To start off, head to a place called Podspálov, accessible by car or by train, which runs every two hours. You can begin your paddling journey above the popular and slightly challenging rapids named Paraplíčko, formed by the Kamenice river flowing into the Jizera. Near Železný Brod, there’s a training slalom course where you can practice your skills. As you paddle from Železný Brod, the river flows through thick forests and meadows, with hardly a sign of civilization, giving you plenty of chances to swim. As the water slows down and forms a pool, you’re getting close to Turnov. On the right bank, you’ll spot a weir and Dlask’s farmstead, where you can find refreshments. Keep in mind, if you parked your car in Spálov, be cautious as the train schedule might surprise you – although it seems Spálov is part of the Turnov–Semily route, it isn’t. When in Železný Brod, make sure to switch to the train to Tanvald, which stops at Spálov. The entire paddling section lasts approximately 6 hours, with the Middle Jizera having a minimum depth of 50 cm (from Riegrova cesta to Podspálov), 140 cm from Podspálov to Železný Brod, 130 cm for the lower part starting from Malá Skála, and 115 cm from Bakov.

Otava – a fantastic river with light traffic

For more experienced paddlers, a one-day journey down the Otava from Čeňkova Pila to Sušice is a fantastic challenge. This fast-flowing mountain stream can be quite the test of your paddling skills, especially in the early rapids. Over a distance of six kilometers, the river descends by 48 meters, reaching a difficulty of WW II-III. The river’s wooded valley hides rocks and large boulders, along with submerged sills and water rollers. If you’re feeling unsure about tackling tough waters, consider starting your adventure down the Otava at Radešov, where the rapids calm down to a difficulty of WW I.

Close to Sušice, the river opens up from its narrow channel to flow gently through meadows and forests. Just a heads up, be sure to check the river’s water level first, which should be at least 80 cm at Čeňkova Pila (90 cm for rafts). You can complete the entire stretch in about 4 to 6 hours. In the upper parts of the Šumava National Park, there are some restrictions: the starting point is situated on the right bank of the Otava, just below the confluence. Paddling is allowed from 8:00 in the morning until 20:00 in the evening.

The stretch from Radešov to Sušice is also beautiful, needing a minimum water level of 45 cm. The lower section from Sušice has a limit set at 27 cm. Another option is to try the 28 km section from Sušice to Katovice. You can start your paddling journey at the railway bridge located below Sušice. After 7 km, you will come across the attractive Rabí Castle, which is worth a visit. After 13 km, there’s a campsite in Velké Hydčice where you can stay overnight, and later you can take a walk along a nature trail to Prácheň Castle. On the next day, you’ll face several tricky weirs, where you may need to carry your boat, but if the water level is favorable, you might be able to paddle down some of them. You can wrap up your adventure at the campsite Otavský ráj in Katovice. Those in good shape might want to continue on to Strakonice, but be aware that this part includes several impassable weirs.

The Ploučnice – a river free from urban development

A two-day adventure along the Ploučnice from Noviny pod Ralskem to Brenná starts just above the Ploučnice gorge. (Take a slight turn off the Class III road coming from the Stráže pod Ralskem industrial area). Soon, the calm waters will guide you between narrow, steep sandstone cliffs, a former mill race that ends with a long tunnel hewn into the rock. The water relentlessly pushes you out through an opening, aptly named Hell’s Maw. Following this, you’ll plummet about half a meter into a shallow pool. After this drop, you’ll enjoy a smooth float on fast-moving water until you reach the spot where the willows start leaning over the river – this marks the beginning of the wild. From here, expect to navigate through a lush jungle-like area filled with willows and other aquatic plants. As you go, look out for many fallen tree trunks that may require skillful navigation around. The Ploučnice twists and turns through tight bends, and the high banks on either side make it hard to pull ashore.

From Mimona to Brenná, you won’t encounter any weirs or sluices; instead, the Ploučnice cuts through the earth again amidst the clay banks, where you’ll notice countless paddle marks left by previous adventurers. The river twists so much that at times it can even loop back on itself. The current is just strong enough to help avoid collisions between paddlers and trees, allowing you to truly test your paddling skills, endurance, and technique. It’s recommended to finish your journey at the ruined weir in Brenná. If you’re not ready to leave the Ploučnice, you can extend your trip to Česká Lípa, Benešov nad Ploučnicí, and if conditions allow, all the way to Děčín (rated WW I). Just be aware of the many weirs that can be tricky to navigate during low water levels and are only for experienced paddlers during high water. The Ploučnice is fully navigable along its entire length, with a depth of 36–18 cm (from Brenná); the limit for navigation is 12 cm.

Sázava – enjoy beautiful rapids

The stretch Týnec nad Sázavou – Pikovice is often regarded as the most beautiful section of the lower Sázava, featuring many delightful rapids that can reach a difficulty of WW II, depending on water levels. Here, the Sázava flows through a deep valley lined with charming hiking spots, providing plenty of refreshment stops along the way. The rapids alternate with deeper sections suitable for swimming. The entire journey typically takes 4–6 hours. During the summer months, when the water levels are lower, this route can be great for families with children and novice paddlers. Conversely, in spring and autumn, when the water levels rise significantly, it is more suitable for experienced paddlers. The water level limit is 50 cm on the gauge at Týnec, and 60 cm for rafts.

The Vltava – a classic paddling route in the Czech Republic

Set off on a day trip along the upper reaches of the Vltava! This stretch is more fitting for experienced paddlers, as it can be paddled starting in early spring (therefore, you can already plan for the next season). The route starts from Borová Lada, passing Polka to Soumarský most. You don’t need to book in advance for this section, but it’s only paddled from March 15 to May 31 between 8 am and 6 pm to avoid overcrowding. The difficulty ranges from ZWC+ to WW II; this part of the river flows through untouched nature and is technically more challenging (about 18 km). The river can only be navigated if the water level is at least 65 cm, and there isn’t much water below the weirs if the level is less than 75 cm). Plus, be cautious at Soumarský Bridge – you need to finish your trip here, or else you risk a hefty fine.

A favorite among paddlers is the lovely stretch from Vyšší Brod to Boršov on the Vltava. Rapid waters on this stretch mean that you can cover the 68 km distance in a weekend; on hot summer days, if swimming and splashing around is also part of your plans, your canoeing adventure could stretch over 4 to 6 days. You’ll paddle through the exciting rapids above Rožmberk, maneuver through the weir at Větřní, and get a unique view of Český Krumlov from the water. If you’re lucky enough to find Myší díra, a little adventure awaits. Below Zlatá Koruna, you’ll be delighted by more lovely rapids and a thrilling, ruined weir beneath Dívčí Kámen. The picturesque Nature Park Vltava near Blanský Forest will carry you towards Boršov. The water level should be at least 60 cm on the gauge at Vyšší Brod.

The Lužnice – one of the most beloved rivers

A one-day journey along Suchdol nad Lužnicí – Jemčina will take you through the beautiful scenery surrounding the winding river Lužnice, with abundant willow trees, sandy banks, and small beaches that are perfect for swimming. At the fork, follow the Nová River channel on the right. You might encounter bothersome mosquitoes in the Novořecké marshes, but the unspoiled views of nature should make up for it. The river picks up speed when it meets Nežárka, after which it’s just a short distance to the campsite in Jemčina. This route typically takes about 5–6 hours, depending on the water level. Those feeling adventurous can continue their journey to Veselí, Tábora, or Bechyně. The water level limits on the Lužnice are 65 cm from Nová Ves (including Suchdol), 60 cm on the Stará Řeka, 40 cm from Rožmberk, and 53 cm from Veselí. On the popular stretch from Tábor to Bechyně, the minimum level is set at 100 cm.

The Morava – a river that provides authentic boating charm

A two-day adventure along the Morava through untouched nature awaits you on the segment Postřelmov – Litovel. As you paddle, you’ll experience lively current and gentle rapids, transitioning into wide meanders filled with serene lagoons, where the river flows lazily between fallen trees and beautiful sandy beaches. In Mohelnice, be cautious of a tricky weir that hides dangerous currents beneath the surface, potentially pulling anyone nearby down. Below Moravičany, you’ll enter the protected area called Litovelské Pomoraví. Although stunning, this area has strict rules: you can’t disembark here, and camping is strictly prohibited. Keep your eyes peeled for beaver activity, as you’ll notice trees they’ve gnawed and dams they’ve built. You can conclude your journey in Litovel, but if you’re still eager for more, let the serene waters take you down the Morava to Olomouc. Overall, the Morava is generally safe for paddling on both middle and lower sections. The minimum depth is 72 cm from Postřelmov and 70 cm from Olomouc.

Ohře – explore the Canoeing Trail

A two-day paddling journey along the Ohře from Kynšperk nad Ohří to Karlovy Vary is doable even for those who are new to paddling. Flowing cheerfully through forests and meadows, the water’s difficulty doesn’t go above WW I. The open waterway lets you enjoy beautiful views of dense forests on both sides, and you can easily stop at multiple campsites along the route. The most intriguing segment begins after Sokolov, where the Ohře gracefully arcs around Loket Castle and enters the Slavkovský les Protected Landscape Area. Shortly after, it leads to the Svatošské skály gorge, eventually reaching Karlovy Vary. However, be aware of several unnavigable and hazardous weirs that are best portaged, especially those at Kynšperk nad Ohří and Černý mlýn; the Radošov weir can be portaged in just a few meters. Meanwhile, the Tuhnice weir has been renovated and features an easy portage path. Generally, the Ohře is still quite navigable in summer, with the upper section having a water level limit of 75 cm (which also applies to Kynšperk) and 70 cm for the middle section from Karlovy Vary.

Bílina – the treasure of the industrial north

Even a one-day trip down Bílina from Lbín to Ústí nad Labem is suitable for beginners or families. Here, the Bílina flows gracefully through open landscapes of meadows and fields. The riverbed is about 5–8 meters wide with no fallen trees blocking the way. It offers 23 km of gentle waters, rated no more than WW I, with no need for portaging. This section of the river takes approximately 5 hours. You can kick off your adventure in Lbín, which is conveniently situated 2 km from the Class I road No. 8 connecting Prague and Teplice. The navigability limit for the Bílina is 100 cm at the Trmice gauge.

Metuje – a romantic paddle through nature

Metuje offers numerous fascinating routes throughout the year. One of the highlights is both the rapids at Peklo and the lower section of the river flowing through Nové Město. Along this route, you can gaze at the stunning Nové Město Castle and enjoy the beautiful, tranquil valley, far removed from any urban chaos. While the Peklo rapids are best experienced after heavy rain, the section from Nové Město nad Metují to the bridge at Dolsko is paddlable throughout the year. This part presents an exciting journey through narrow, winding countryside where the current runs a bit faster. Occasionally, you might encounter a downed tree or a low-lying branch after a corner, so it’s crucial to be able to stop your boat quickly. The riverbanks are mainly overgrown, and in some spots, you may face challenges when portaging due to high, muddy banks and pesky nettles, so wearing long pants is advisable. The river’s character can be likened to that of the Ploučnice or Lužnice, however, the current here is slightly swifter. The entire 12 km stretch can take about three hours or more depending on your pace. The navigability limit here is 14 cm, and in the Nové Město to Krčín section, it is 35 cm. The lower reaches of the Stará River are easily navigable with a limit of 5 cm, yet at these levels, you must navigate the old riverbed.