Kayaking down the river Spree

Posted on 29. Oct, 2012 by Dan Collins in General

This is a Guest Post by Oh-Berlin.

Going to Berlin? Fancy stepping off that well-trodden tourist trail? Then the winding haven of Berlin’s canals and rivers, all experienced on a kayak, is for you.

Discovering a city doesn’t have to be done completely on foot, in fact, it’s probably better if it isn’t. That’s why stepping back and soaking up Berlin from this angle is the perfect way to sight-see. Even better, it gives those tired feet a rest and your arms a good holiday work out! Like in most European cities, tourists in their droves go on walking tours, buses, metros and bikes to see the top sights, but here in Berlin you are lucky enough to get up close and personal with the best the city has to offer from your kayak!

Can’t kayak? That’s not a problem! Tours are expertly guided in either English or German; they’ll show you the ropes and tell you all about the history and relevance of what you’re seeing as well as a few lesser-known facts. All equipment is provided ensuring your safety and means you have to bring nothing about from bags from enthusiasm (and maybe a change of clothes). For an intimate experience, most kayaking companies in Berlin tend to offer tours for groups no bigger than ten. But if that’s still too many, then it is really easy to arrange smaller bookings on request!

Although thoroughly rewarding, a meandering route along the River Spree can be tough on your arm and it’s safe to say that the regular breaks at points of interest are welcomed! However, despite a few aches, it’s a worthwhile experience and you really feel as though you are doing something that few tourists do. The majority of tours actually begin on the tree lined Landwehrkanal canal, where you’ll be treated to views of the Bendlerblock building, central to the failed assassination attempt of Hitler in 1945 and numerous old bridges. Sights whilst gliding along the River Spree itself include the beautiful red-brick ‘Erlöserkirche’ church and the impressive Office of the Federal Chancellor. The whole way along your kayak you’ll also get to see the impressive scenery of the Tiergarten area, which will at some points have you wondering if you are even in a city at all, or rather in the middle of the German countryside.

So waste no more time – reserve a spot on an informative and interesting kayak tour and do something different with your city break!

And if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Berlin, know that Oh-Berlin offer accommodation all across the city, including the popular kayaking areas. With a self-catering apartment in Tiergarten, you’ll be able to go straight home and cook a filling meal after your tough workout!

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