Gudenå Canoe Route

The Gudenå river runs right through Ry and connects the lakes of Søhøjlandet in a continuous paddling route. Canoe hire is available in town, and most operators offer multi-day packages with camping equipment and shuttle services to return you to your starting point. The standard route through the lake system takes two to three days at a relaxed pace and passes through quiet forested stretches, open lakes, and the occasional small town.

The river is also suitable for kayaking, and stands-up paddle boards are available in summer. The current is gentle and the route is well-marked, making it accessible to families and beginners. Wild camping is permitted at designated spots along the route, and the lakeside is largely undeveloped — you will see herons, ospreys, and in early summer, nesting grebes.

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A story
The Gudenå is Denmark's longest river at 176 kilometres, and the stretch through Søhøjlandet has been a popular canoe route since the late nineteenth century. The river connects a series of lakes and flows past Ry, making it possible to paddle for several days through varied scenery without having to carry your canoe over any significant obstacles. Canoe hire with camping equipment and shuttle services is available from several operators in Ry.