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Canoeing the Elbe: Active Point Děčín’s 22 km Journey - Děčín

Canoeing the Elbe: Active Point Děčín’s 22 km Journey

Bad Schandaumoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4–5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for paddlers with moderate fitness and some endurance; beginners can participate with the initial briefing and calm river conditions.

Overview

Paddle a 22 km stretch from Děčín to Bad Schandau through sandstone canyons and national parks with Active Point Děčín. Choose to return by bike or train and experience one of Central Europe’s most scenic river journeys.

Děčín 2, Ústecký kraj

CANOEING : Děčín - Bad Schandau 5 hrs

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About This Adventure

Embark on a thrilling 22 km canoe or kayak adventure from Děčín to Bad Schandau, navigating through stunning sandstone canyons and national parks. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Shepherd's Wall and Děčín chateau. Choose to explore the spa town by bike or return by train for a memorable experience.

Děčín - Bad Schandau 22 km / 4,5 hrs

Your experience starts at Camp Děčín, where we will hand you a canoe or a kayak, paddle and a dry bag. A short briefing will take place on-site. The longest trip from our offer, with 22 km of a pleasant pace in 4.5 hours. When leaving Děčín, you will be amazed by the looks of the Shepherd's Wall with the Via Ferrata and with Děčín chateau on the other side, which rises above the river. The river will take you through a majestic sandstone canyon through the national parks of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland to the spa town of Bad Schandau in neighboring Germany. The handover point is located on a small beach on the left river bank, before the first bridge you will see in Germany. Under the ferry and train station Bad Schandau

Option with bikes

After you reach the handover point, we will take the boat from you and give you the bikes. It is up to you whether you choose to visit the center of the spa town with many restaurants and nice cafes or choose a direct route back to Děčín along the Elbe Cycle Route. The bikes must be returned by 6 pm at the Kemp Decin reception. We charge 300 CZK for late returns.

Option to return by train

We will take the boat and all the equipment from you after you reach the handover point. To return by train, the train station is directly across the street, less than 5 minutes walking.

Meeting point:

Kemp Děčín, Polabí, free parking

Price includes:

● Rental of a canoe/kayak, paddle, life jacket and dry bag ● Bike rental, helmet, cable lock, bottled water (if selected) ● Transportation of the equipment ● Instructions in boat manoeuvring ● Original map

Price excludes:

● Personal transportation back to Decin

Adventure Tips

Wear a life jacket at all times

Safety is priority on the Elbe—life jackets are provided and must be worn throughout the trip.

Watch for changing water conditions

River flow can vary with recent rainfall; check local reports before embarking.

Bring water-resistant gear

A dry bag is supplied, but consider waterproof cases for electronics and valuables.

Plan your return carefully

If choosing the bike option, ensure timely return by 6 pm to avoid late fees.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Kingfishers darting along the riverbanks
  • European otters occasionally spotted in calmer coves

History

The sandstone gorge region has long served as a natural border and historic trade route, with cultural ties between Czechia and Saxony dating back centuries.

Conservation

Both Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Parks maintain strict environmental protections to preserve fragile sandstone formations and native habitats, encouraging responsible tourism.

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Adventure Hotspots in Děčín

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Quick-dry clothing

Essential

Keeps you comfortable and prevents chafing during long hours on the water.

summer specific

Waterproof footwear

Essential

Protects feet while launching, landing, and walking on wet surfaces.

Sun protection

Essential

Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen shield you from strong sun over open water.

summer specific

Light layers

Essential

Flexible warmth for changing temperatures during shoulder seasons.

spring|fall specific