Have you ever thought about going on a kayaking adventure on your next holiday? If you want to combine nature discovery with sport, scenery and fun, this activity is ideal. Maybe it's an activity that tires your arm muscles, but there's nothing to stop you from paddling at your own pace and taking breaks on the shore. In this article, you'll see some destinations in Europe and the Nordic countries that are great for kayaking.

What is kayaking?

Before talking about kayaking in Europe and the Nordic countries, you should know that kayaking is an outdoor activity that has become accessible to everyone. You can paddle all along rivers or on the sea in the heart of breathtaking places. Kayaking is practiced almost everywhere in the world, where the water bodies are declared for special or sporting purposes. You just need to be accompanied by an experienced guide wherever you are. For example, you can kayak in the USA, India, Asia or Africa. If you are more interested in the USA, follow this link to prepare your trip.

Corsica

Corsica is a small paradise located off the southeast coast of France,west ofItaly and north of Sardinia. This beautiful Mediterranean island is full of waterways and rivers for the pleasure of kayakers with friends, family or even lovers. To kayak in Corsica, the Gulf of Port on the western side of the island is recommended. As you paddle along, you will admire the splendid red granite cliffs overlooking the sea. If you prefer to go hiking in calm water in the rivers, choose the spots of Fiumorbo or Travo.

Croatia

In Croatia, you can also kayak on beautiful and quiet rivers. The Zrmanja in Kaštel Žegarski is for example a very good spot with its beautiful river perfectly suited for beginners. The river runs through karst areas illustrated by canyons and in some places turns into waterfalls over limestone barriers. During your adventure, you will be surrounded by high rocks, magical waterfalls, but also lush vegetation. Indeed, the landscape is magnificent. You can also try your hand at rapids next to this spectacular canyon. In addition, you can take a swim in the hidden natural pools.

Spitzbergen, an island in Norway

The special thing about kayaking in Spitsbergen is that you will be sailing through icebergs with changing reflections. As you sail along, the pace is deliberately slow. This will give you time to discover its diversity and beauty. For a great arctic kayaking experience, we recommend exploring the Svea glacier. This is home to the largest and most active glacier in Spitsbergen. Apart from the beautiful views, it is possible to get close to the animals of this polar region. For example, there are seals lazing on the ice. It is an unusual and privileged encounter with wild marine mammals, but always very curious when approaching the boats.

Sweden

Finally, it is also recommended to discover Sweden and its breathtaking landscapes during a kayaking adventure. For this, head to Dalsland, a province in western Sweden. It is a place of streams, canals, creeks and lakes in the middle of a wild and authentic nature. However, it is mainly about canoeing. You will love this place, as it has hundreds of camping facilities.