Where can you canoe in Portugal?

As one of the least populated countries in Europe, taking to the rivers in Portugal lets you appreciate its natural beauty and traditional way of life. Even in the most popular tourist destinations such as the Algarve, you soon feel miles from anywhere, floating past ancient orchards, white-washed cottages, even whiter storks and perhaps basking turtles! If you come in the spring bring your camera to capture orchards of almond trees swathed in beautiful sweet-smelling pink blossom but don’t forget to bring some warm clothes too just in case the weather turns cool. The Ria Formosa wetlands offer a superb location for kayaking with a 60km long nature reserve and ever changing lagoon system consisting of sandy islands separated by natural inlets and channels and a haven for marine life. We offer guided tours of this area as well as kayak hire if you prefer to go alone.
Canoeing also gives you the option of exploring Portugal’s remoter regions. In the Peneda-Gerês National Park in the North of Portugal and the surrounding areas you will find rugged mountains, hidden waterfalls, wild moorland ponies and ancient granite villages where jangling cow bells announce the return of the herd for milking. This summer we are offering 4 and 5 day kayaking holidays on the rivers Minho, Douro and Tejo (see below for more details) as well as day trips.

Further south in the Alentejo rivers wind through white washed villages nestling amongst perfectly rounded hills and gnarled olive and cork trees- perfect for nature spotting and a leisurely lunch or take to the lake at Alqueva, also in the Alentejo, – Europe’s largest man made dam and an up and coming water sports destination.

Portugal’s mild climate makes it ideal for sea kayaking which can be enjoyed many months of the year even by beginners. We currently offer sea kayaking tours in the Arrabida natural park, in the Algarve and Madeira.

Please ask us for full information on the canoeing trip(s) that interest you most or follow the links below.

Canoeing in the Algarve A great way to explore, discover the beauty of the Algarvean countryside and of course cool down on hot days! Our relaxing canoeing day trip takes you inland away from the hustle and bustle of the coast to the tranquil Arade river. Families and beginners welcome

Kayak Tour of Arrabida A kayak tour is a fun and memorable way to explore the dramatic coastline of the Arrabida Natural Park with its towering cliffs, secluded beaches, spectacular rock formations and hidden coves. Transport from Lisbon can be provided.

Algarve Sea and Lake Kayaking Explore quiet waterways, uninhabited islands and lakes and come close to nature on one of our Algarve kayak tours. A relaxing and peaceful day out, ideal for couples, families, nature lovers, bird watchers and photographers

Kayaking in Madeira Come sea kayaking in Madeira a fun adventurous trip with beautiful coastal scenery. We have double and single kayaks and the trip is suitable for regular kayakers and beginners alike