Kayaking in Silkeborg: The most beautiful tours on lakes and rivers in Denmark
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Silkeborg: Denmark's outdoor capital between lakes and rivers
Silkeborg calls itself the outdoor capital of Denmark – and for once, the usually rather modest Danes are anything but reserved. The region boasts the most lakes in the country, Denmark's longest river, and some of the country's highest peaks.
The city lies in the heart of Denmark's Lake District, Søhøjlandet. Forests, rivers, and lakes begin practically right behind the city center.
We tested two kayak tours around Silkeborg – and quickly understood why the area is considered one of Denmark's most beautiful paddling destinations. Here you'll find a detailed description of the tours as well as the GPS data.
Both tours start at the Silkeborg Canoe Center directly on the Remstrup Å, a tributary of the Gudenå in the middle of the city.
1. Kayak tour on the lakes of Silkeborg
Through hidden canals and emerald-green lakes
The first tour starts at the small harbor on the narrow Remstrup Å river. Magnificent villas with large gardens line both sides of the water, and elegant sailboats are moored at the jetty. At the end of May, the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colors.
After just a few kilometers, the river opens up to Lake Brassø .
We paddle through the almost overgrown Klüvers Canal to the hidden Avnsø Lake . Motorboats are prohibited here – which is probably why the lake is one of the cleanest in all of Denmark.
Even the so-called paradise islands live up to their name.
The small, wooded paradise islands shine like green emeralds in the deep blue waters of Borre Sø.
Another narrow canal leads to the hidden Slåensø lake . Kayaks are not allowed there, however. We moor the boats at the jetty and explore the lake on foot via a small hiking trail along the shore. The Aalekroen inn is a good place to recharge after exploring the Silkeborg lakes.
Click on the first image to start the photo gallery.
2. Kayak tour on the Gudenå from Silkeborg
Kayaking down Denmark's longest river
The next day we paddle in the opposite direction – on the Gudenå, the longest river in Denmark.
Even the start becomes an experience: We paddle our kayaks through the lock!
Lock keeper Jens looks like a sailor from an old picture book.
With a white beard, sailor cap and weatherproof jacket, he proudly tells us about the history of the lock, which has been in operation since 1920.
Once the gates open, we glide almost silently along the river.
The Gudenå river is closed to motorboats. Instead, we encounter swans, dragonflies, cranes, and countless other birds . Fish frequently leap from the water.
A hiking trail runs along the riverbank , in some places built on wooden planks over the water. In the past, heavy barges were pulled upstream on the Gudenå by horses.
Our tour ends at the historic Kongensbro Kro inn .
The moss-green painted restaurant looks like it's from another time:
Crystal glasses, linen napkins and old blue and white plates give the dining room an almost picturesque atmosphere.
The return trip to Silkeborg is by taxi or organized transport. Those who rented kayaks from the Silkeborg Canoe Center leave them at the campsite.
Click on the first image to start the photo gallery.
Tips for kayaking in Silkeborg
General information
The train station in Silkeborg is easily and environmentally friendly accessible by train from Germany.
General information about Silkeborg, accommodations and activities, as well as specific information about paddling on the Gudenå river, can be found here.
Rules on the Gudenå
Special rules apply on the Gudenå river. On some sections, the number of boats per day is limited.
Kayak rental in Silkeborg
Kayaks and canoes can be rented at the Silkeborg Canoe Centre . Multi-day tours with overnight stays are also offered.
Accommodation
An inn has existed in Kongensbro on the banks of the Gudenå River since 1663. Although the current Kongensbro Kro restaurant dates back to 1949, it is so stylishly and comfortably furnished that you feel like you've stepped back in time. Double rooms with breakfast start at €180.
At the “Søhøjlandets Campingplatz” you can rent glamping tents right by the river.
The Vejlsøhus Hotel & Conference Center is located just outside Silkeborg in a quiet lakeside setting. Guests can borrow bicycles free of charge from the partner hotel to easily explore the city. Double rooms with breakfast start from €90.
The Aalekroen inn is a good place to recharge your batteries while exploring the Silkeborg lakes.
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