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.

Table Of Contents
  1. Before you go on a Kayaking adventure
  2. Kayaking and Canoeing on the Ourthe river
  3. Kayaking and Canoeing on the Semois river
  4. Kayaking and Canoeing on the Lesse river
  5. Conclusion

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.

DepartureArrivalDistanceCompany
DurbuyBarvaux8kmAdventure Valley
NoiseuxDurbuy12kmAdventure Valley
HottonDurbuy23kmAdventure Valley
Grand-HanDurbuy6kmDurbuy Kajak
DurbuyBarvaux8kmDurbuy Kajak
NoiseuxDurbuy12kmDurbuy Kajak
HottonDurbuy23kmDurbuy Kajak
La Roche en ArdenneJuprille 8kmBrandsport
La Roche en ArdenneHampteau 15kmBrandsport
MabogeLa Roche en Ardenne Ardenne Adventures
NisramontLa Roche en Ardenne Ardenne Adventures
HamoirComblain-Au-Pont8kmKayak Remous
BomalHamoir10kmKayak Remous
BarvauxHamoir15kmKayak Remous
BarvauxComblain-au-Pont25kmKayak 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

DepartureArrivalDistanceCompany
PoupehanFrahan4kmSemois Kayaks
BouillonPoupehan15kmSemois Kayaks
BouillonFrahan19kmSemois Kayaks
PoupehanAlle12kmKayaks La Vanne
AlleVresse7kmKayaks La Vanne
AlleMembre12kmKayaks La Vanne
AlleBohan20kmKayaks 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

DepartureArrivalDistanceCompany
GendronAnseremme12kmDinant Evasion – Lesse Kayaks
HouyetAnseremme21kmDinant Evasion – Lesse Kayaks
HouyetGendron9kmDinant 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.