Adventure Collective
Experience Thrilling Rafting from Děčín to Bad Schandau Through Saxony's Sandstone Canyons - Bad Schandau

Experience Thrilling Rafting from Děčín to Bad Schandau Through Saxony's Sandstone Canyons

Bad Schandaumoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

5 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness to paddle steadily and handle periods of activity on the water.

Overview

Discover a 22 km rafting adventure from Děčín to Bad Schandau, gliding through towering sandstone cliffs and serene waters in Saxony’s Elbe Sandstone Mountains. A blend of thrill, history, and breathtaking views awaits.

Děčín 2, Ústecký kraj

RAFTING : Děčín - Bad Schandau 5 hrs

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About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 22 km rafting 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, making this experience both scenic and flexible.

Děčín - Bad Schandau 22 km / 5 hrs

Your experience starts at Camp Děčín, where we will hand you a raft, 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. You can visit the center of the spa town, which has many restaurants and nice cafes, or take a direct route back to Děčín along the Elbe Cycle Route. The bikes must be returned by 6 p.m. 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 raft, 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 Layers for Changing Weather

The region’s weather can shift rapidly; dress in moisture-wicking layers to stay comfortable on and off the water.

Bring Waterproof Bags

Keep electronics and valuables dry by using waterproof dry bags or cases during rafting.

Check River Conditions

Before your trip, verify current river flow and weather forecasts to ensure safe rafting conditions.

Explore Bad Schandau by Bike

Rent a bike at the endpoint to enjoy scenic trails along the Elbe or opt for the train back to Děčín for convenience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • European otters that sometimes appear along calm river sections
  • Peregrine falcons nesting on sandstone cliffs

History

The Elbe Sandstone Mountains area became Saxon Switzerland National Park in 1990, preserving the region’s unique geology and rich biodiversity.

Conservation

Operators emphasize environmentally responsible rafting practices and encourage visitors to minimize waste and respect protected areas.

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Adventure Hotspots in Bad Schandau

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Dry Bag

Essential

Protects your belongings from splashes and accidental immersion during rafting.

Quick-Dry Clothing

Essential

Dries fast and keeps you comfortable throughout the day on the river.

spring;summer;fall specific

Water Shoes or Secure Sandals

Essential

Provides traction and foot protection on wet riverbanks and rocky shorelines.

spring;summer;fall specific

Light Rain Jacket

Offers protection against unexpected rain or spray from river rapids.

spring;fall;summer specific