Canoeing in Strasbourg

My summary

Kayak or canoe

Different types of boats are available: the Canadian canoe, which can accommodate 2 people (plus a child), the sit-on-top kayak (large, open, very stable, self-bailing kayaks) and finally the normal kayak. The latter is reserved for those with previous kayaking experience, but the other boats are accessible to all.

Various walking routes

Departure is from Strasbourg Eaux Vives, rue Pierre de Coubertin in Strasbourg (right next to the European Parliament).

A variety of walking routes are available: downtown Strasbourg, around the Aar, Gambsheim, la Wantzenau… Itineraries vary in length, from 2 hours to a full day.

Depending on the circuit, the hikes can be done independently or only with a guide. The crossing of Strasbourg, for example, requires to be supervised: it is normal and reassuring, the navigation in Strasbourg is not simple. There are currents, locks, dams, we cross Batorama boats… In short, it’s out of the question to go it alone!

Depending on the tour, the minimum number of participants ranges from one person for the Tour de l’Aar to 8 for the other tours. So you’ll need to organize your outing with a group of friends! This is simply because of the logistics involved in collecting participants and equipment from the finish line and returning them to the starting point.

I tested the circuit from Strasbourg to La Wantzenau

For my part, I tested the De Strasbourg à la Wantzenau circuit, which takes in Strasbourg, Schiltigheim and la Wantzenau. What immediately struck me was how calm it was on the water! Even though you start out in Strasbourg, you really feel like you’re somewhere else as soon as you put your boat on the river. You’re immersed in nature, gliding quietly along the water, and you feel like you’re a long way from the city! It’s very pleasant, and I really love the atmosphere.

Go by kayak, return by car

At the end of the tour, a member of the Strasbourg Eaux Vives team picks up participants and their kayaks and brings them back to the starting point, at the association’s premises. If it’s time to eat, you can even plan a picnic– tables are available outside. That’s what I did for lunch, and it was great fun!