The Ourthe river running alongside Durbuy's old town is the best reason many visitors come here in summer. The river is gentle enough for beginners but long enough — particularly the stretch downstream to Hotton — to make for a proper half-day or full-day paddle. Several outfitters in Barvaux-sur-Ourthe, just 5 kilometres up the road, rent kayaks and canoes and will arrange pick-up from downriver.
The views from the water looking back up at the castle and medieval townscape are better than any you get on foot. Early morning, before the tourist crowds arrive, the river is especially quiet and the reflections in the water are striking.