Boat trip in Colmar – Notice on the boat in the Little Venice
Boating in Colmar in Alsace, that seems a bit far-fetched, doesn't it? In fact, you can take a boat ride in Colmar on the Lauch, the name of the river that crosses the city: a good way to visit Colmar differently, along the water! A tourist activity but I recommend it.
Stroll with Sweet Narcisse from the Saint-Pierre Bridge
I chose to test the boat ride in Colmar with Sweet Narcisse, which I recommend. The walk takes place on the Lauch, the name of the river that crosses Colmar, starting from the Pont Saint-Pierre in Little Venice.
On the river in a flat-bottomed boat
Here I am sitting in a flat-bottomed boat, like a tourist passing through Colmar. It is necessary to know how to be a tourist in its own region, it is very pleasant! These specially shaped boats were originally used by market gardeners to transport their vegetables to market.
Boat tour in Little Venice and the Market Gardeners
The boat trip takes us through different parts of Colmar. The famous Little Venice, of course, but also the residential district of Les Maraîchers , where vegetables used to come from, before returning to the city center to Les Halles, which still houses a covered market where I also recommend you to go for a walk. The boat glides slowly on the water, letting us admire the landscape: half-timbered houses and green nature are there. The atmosphere is peaceful, it is very pleasant.
Throughout the boat ride, the boatman gives us explanations on the history of Colmar. However, he takes a break when we pass through the residential area, so as not to disturb the peace of the neighborhood.
How long does the boat tour take?
Don’t expect a long walk, there aren’t enough canals in Colmar for that. After 30 minutes, we are back at the pier. It’s quick but I really enjoyed the walk, which allows to see the city of Colmar from a different angle.
My guide to Colmar
Planifiez un séjour inoubliable à Colmar et dans sa région sans perdre de temps grâce à mon guide ! Vous y trouverez les plus beaux lieux, les activités à ne pas louper et les meilleures adresses!
Throughout the boat ride, the boatman gives us explanations on the history of Colmar. However, he takes a break when we pass through the residential area, so as not to disturb the peace of the neighborhood. After 30 minutes, we are back at the pier. I really enjoyed the ride!
I liked
- Discover the little Venice from another point of view. I think it’s even more beautiful from the water!
- No noise, the boat glides peacefully on the water
I liked less
- It’s quite short because you can’t go very far on the Lauch, but that’s how it is!
My pictures of the boat trip in Colmar
Practical information
Rates and schedules
Boat trips are possible every day from April to September and on weekends from March to October (depending on weather conditions). Find all the schedules and rates here.
During the season and in good weather, the places are quickly taken. Remember to make a reservation by contacting Sweet Narcisse via the website or by phone.
Guided tours
The boat ride lasts 30 minutes. The visit is commented by the boatman.
Access
The departure of the boats is on rue de la Herse, at the foot of the Pont Saint-Pierre.
Not to be confused with the other boats in Colmar, which are at the foot of the restaurant La Krutenau. I haven’t tested these but the freebie is only for those under 5 years old anyway. Moreover, I found the Sweet Narcisse team to be very friendly, so I recommend it!