Canoeing on the river Gudenåen
Denmark's longest stream, Gudenåen, is perfect for canoeing. The southernmost part of Gudenå is characterised by narrow, winding stretches through beautiful and peaceful nature. There are several canoe rentals, accommodation and picnic areas along the river ensuring you a good experience.
Canoe trip on Denmark's only river
The southernmost part of the river is narrow and winding with shallow water. It is a safe and beginner friendly choice of stretch, but also fun for the more experienced canoeists due to the many curves. Nature varies from Denmark's largest wetlands to deep forests - from vast expanse to a jungle like atmosphere where you are surrounded by trees and bird song.
3 guides to day trips
Canoe rentals along the Gudenå
Canoe rental is easy and comfortable. The canoe rental has the permit covered, and will pick up the canoe at your final destination. It is your choice where to start and end the trip.
All the practical stuff
If you have never tried canoeing before, then you probably have a few questions or doubts. Below we will answer some of the questions that we receive the most. Remember that the canoe rental is ready to assist you and answer any question you may have , so you can look forward to a good experience.
How long is the Gudenå?
If you ask your good friend Google, you can get a bit confused. some sources say 149 kilometres - others 176... or 160. It all depends on what you refer to as the Gudenå. For example the first narrow stretch after the sources of the Gudenå and its outlet in Randers Fjord.
The strech that you can navigate in a canoe is 140 kilometres. And the one-way traffic stretch in the Coastal Land between Tørring and The Monastery Mill is 41 kilometres.
Tørring – Åstedbro: 14 km
Åstedbro – Bredstenbro: 6 km
Bredstenbro – Vestbirk Hydropower Plantrk: 7 km
Vestbirk Hydropower Plant – Voervadsbro: 7 km
Voervadsbro – The Monastery Mill/Lake Mossø: 6 km
The Monastery Mill/Lake Mossø – Ry: 10 km
How far can I canoe in one day?
Naturally, if you are preparing a canoeing holiday, it is nice to know how many days you need to spend on the journey. A day trip in a canoe is about 15-20 kilometres. It is of course individual and depends on preferences as well as who is canoeing. If you are in doubt, ask the canoe rental. They are always ready to guide and assist you.
How many is there room for in a canoe? Can we bring the kids?
There is room for two adults in a canoe. If you have two children (max. 30 kilo), there is also room for them.
Bigger children can paddle, but prepare to be the engine if you share a canoe with a child. And take into account how patient the child is, since a day trip can be quite long.
Are you only permitted to sail in one direction?
Yes. You are not allowed to sail upstream from Klostermølle to Tørring. Therefore, you must follow Gudenåen northward. Sailing downstream is also a bit nicer.
For this reason, during the summer holiday, you can get on The Gudenå Bus, which sails canoeists from Klostermølle to Tørring with several stops every day. The bus is your way to get back to the starting point.
Do I nee a permit for canoeing on the Gudenå?
If you rent a canoe, then you do not need to worry about permits. The canoe rental has this covered.
If you bring your own canoe to the area, then you must purchase a guest registration.
If you are a citizen in Horsens or Hedensted Municipality, you can register the canoe as local, and you do not need a guest registration.
Can I use a kayak or SUP board on Gudenåen?
Yes, absolutely. The rules for permits that apply to canoes also apply to kayaks and paddleboards.
It is possible to rent kayaks at Tørring Canoe Rental.
I cannot swim. Can I go canoeing on the Gudenå?
If you cannot swim, avoid the deeper sections of the River Gudenå. It is also always a good idea to wear a life jacket.
If you cannot swim or feel nervous around water, we recommend the stretch between Tørring and Åstedbro. Here, the river is narrow and shallow, sometimes so shallow that your canoe almost touches the bottom. The current is gentle, so the canoe stays fairly steady. There are plenty of bends to navigate, though, making this section a little more challenging. Paddling your way around the winding river is great fun, and you might soon forget all about your nerves.
Do I need to purchase a lot of equipment before a day in the canoe?
No, you do not need to bring your own life jacket. When you book a canoe trip with Tørring Kanoudlejning, you must also book a life jacket for every person in your group. If you already have your own, you are welcome to bring it instead. Everyone should wear a properly fitted life jacket throughout the trip, even if they can swim. You can read more about hiring equipment here.
Remember to bring plenty of food and drinking water. Paddling can be tiring, especially on a warm day, so make sure everyone has enough to drink.
And do not forget your sun cream! You can spend several hours out in the sun, and our outdoor expert has learnt that lesson the hard way.
There is plenty of room in the canoe for a couple of backpacks and a cool bag. However, there is always a risk of the canoe tipping over, so keep important belongings, such as your phone, wallet and keys, in waterproof dry bags.
Choose your footwear carefully, too. Water can splash into the canoe, and you may need to step into shallow water to free it if it gets stuck. Wear shoes that can get wet and provide a good grip. Avoid going barefoot when getting in or out of the canoe.
Finally, pack a change of clothes in a waterproof bag, especially a spare pair of dry socks. You will be glad to have them if you get wet!
Mere Gudenå
