Kayaking and Canoeing Holidays and Day Trips

... escape the day-to-day!

Kayaking and canoeing holidays in Portugal are a great way to explore parts of the country that other tourists will never see and can be just as relaxing or as challenging as you like.

Fancy drifting down a sun dappled river to a riverbank picnic with the only sounds the splashing of paddles and birdsong?

Want to get that bit closer to Portugal's diverse bird, plant and wildlife? Or discover the 'real' Portugal this holiday?

Are you the adventurous type looking for a new challenge? How about an exhilarating sea kayaking tour?

Or are you just looking for a fun way to cool down on a hot day?

Whatever inspires you, kayaking and canoeing is safe and fun for adults and kids alike (just be sure to check with each centre for their minimum age limits). It is an easy sport to learn and once you have mastered the basics, your guide will probably have a few canoe-based games up their sleeve to bring out your family or friends' competitive side!

More experienced and intrepid canoeists can also enjoy sea kayaking, whitewater trips, or exploring one of Portugal's lesser known and less well travelled rivers.

Feeling even more adventurous? Keep a look out for some up and coming canoe based sports. In 2006 Aljezur in the Algarve hosted the first national kayak surfing championships and canoe polo clubs are forming across the country.

There are two common types of kayak and canoe used in Portugal, although you may come across others. The 2 or 3 seater Canadian canoes are wide, open and stable and the canoeist sits on a raised seat and paddles with single or double bladed paddles. 1 or 2 seater Kayaks usually have closed decks, double bladed paddles and the paddler sits with their legs in front of them . Kayaks are designed for speed and manoeuvrability.

If you're going kayaking or canoeing on holiday don't forget to pack sun cream, a hat or cap if it's sunny, shoes that you don't mind getting wet, a camera or binoculars and maybe a change of clothes for kids. Always make sure that lifejackets are provided with the canoes.

canoeing holiday photos copyright Jennifer Gaunt, Katsuuu, Pedro Dias