Where to find the most beautiful locations for kayaking in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is the country of water: sea, rivers, streams and lakes, and that creates a lot opportunities for water recreation. I find kayaking one of the best activities for a day out. It’s a great way to relax in nature or in the city and you literally see the world from a different perspective. In this article I give a summary of the best places for kayaking in the Netherlands, all with possibilities for kayak rental.
Frisian lakes
The province known for its water sports is Friesland. The Frisian lakes are especially attractive for sailing, but is also very nice with a kayak. You will find many large expanses of lakes, which are connected by narrow canals. Because the area is so large, it is also perfect for a multi-day kayak trip. Kayak rentals can be found throughout Friesland, but I recommend to visit the city of Sneek in any case. This is a beautiful old fishing town with many facilities for water sports.
Kromme Rijn – Utrecht
My favorite kayakspot in the Netherlands is the small river Kromme Rijn (crooked Rhine). The kayakrental ‘De Rijnstroom’ is located on the outskirts of Utrecht. You have the choice to kayak into the citycanals of Utrecht, or heading into the nature and peace of Amelisweerd. The Amelisweerd had a lot to offer: parks, orchards, fortresses, a really nice (pancake)restaurant ‘Theehuis Rhijnauwen’ and also a hostel. Kayakrentals along the Kromme Rijn can also be found in the towns Odijk and Wijk bij Duurstede.
Giethoorn
Well, Giethoorn is probably the most touristic town in the Netherlands, but that is not without a reason. This is a beautiful idyllic town with canals instead of streets. Many lakes were formed by peat cutting and the farms on islands were only accessible with boats. I would really recommend to kayak in Giethoorn, but avoid this area on busy days during summer because of the traffic jams with boats in the narrow streets of this town.
The Biesbosch
National Park the Biesbosch is a beautiful area near Rotterdam and Den Haag that is great for kayaking. The streams are like a jungle with narrow winding creeks and overhanging branches. The tides make kayaking extra adventurous. Kayakrental can be found in Dordrecht.
Read more about the Biesbosch in this article: National parks in South-Netherlands
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