Paddling in the Spreewald: Routes, Canoe & SUP Rental, Stays & Packing List
- Difficulty
- Easy; calm water, ideal for beginners and families
- Waters
- approx. 1,000 km of channels
- Launch points
- Lübbenau, Burg, Lübben, Schlepzig
- Routes
- short under 13 km to multi-day 42 km
- Best time
- May to September, quieter in spring
Around 1,000 kilometres of channels, canals and river arms, hardly any current and plenty of shade: the Spreewald is one of Germany's most beautiful paddling regions and ideal for beginners and families. Here you will find launch points, routes for every day length, the key rules and a packing list for your trip by canoe, kayak or SUP.
Upper or Lower Spreewald?
The Spreewald lies in south-eastern Brandenburg between Cottbus and Lake Schwieloch. The Upper and Lower Spreewald are protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (Reiseland Brandenburg).
| Area | Launch points | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Spreewald | Lübbenau, Burg, Lehde | Dense maze of channels, many punts, classic Spreewald villages |
| Lower Spreewald | Lübben, Schlepzig | Quieter, more natural, less tourist traffic |
Routes for every day length
| Route | Length | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Lübbenau Barzlin tour | short, under 13 km | Beginners, families |
| Green or Red paddle tour Burg-Kauper | short, under 13 km | Beginners |
| Lock tour around Lübben | short, under 13 km | Anyone who wants to try locks |
| Lübbenau Spreewald explorer | day trip, 18–27 km | Some stamina |
| Lower Spreewald Schlepzig – Groß Wasserburg | day trip, 18–27 km | Peace and nature |
| Water labyrinth tour | multi-day, approx. 42 km | Touring paddlers |
Rental companies usually give you a map with recommended routes. Many channels branch off, so a waterproof map or a GPX track on your phone helps with navigation.
Rules in the biosphere reserve
- Closed channels: many channels are closed to paddlers, especially in the core zones. Follow the signs and your rental company's map.
- No wild launching: large parts of the Spreewald are nature reserve. Only launch at official launch points or at your rental company's jetty.
- Punts have right of way: Spreewald punts are around 10 metres long and hard to steer. In tight bends they need almost the full width. Keep right, look ahead and stop if necessary.
- Locks: paddlers operate many of the small locks themselves. With a SUP or light kayak, carrying around is often quicker.
- Check closures: some locks and weirs are closed at times for construction work. Ask your rental company or the tourist information before setting off.
Renting a boat or board
The largest boat harbours are in Burg and Lübbenau; in the Lower Spreewald you usually start in Schlepzig or Lübben. Rental companies offer canoes, kayaks and SUPs, often with a map and a waterproof barrel for luggage. In peak season and for groups, reserve boats in advance.
Best time to go
The main season runs from May to September. If you want peace and quiet, paddle in spring or autumn or on weekdays. Spring has another advantage: it comes before the mosquito season. On summer weekends, avoid the crowded hotspots of Lehde and Leipe.
Packing list for your paddling trip
Conclusion
The Spreewald is the ideal region to start paddling: calm water, short and long routes, rental companies in every larger town. Respect closed channels and official launch points, give the punts room and travel in spring, autumn or on weekdays if you can.
Frequently asked questions
Can you SUP in the Spreewald?
Yes. The calm channels are well suited to SUP. Plan for short carries at locks and watch out for the punts.
Where is the best place to start in the Spreewald?
In the Upper Spreewald in Lübbenau or Burg, in the quieter Lower Spreewald in Lübben or Schlepzig.
Can I paddle anywhere in the Spreewald?
No. Many channels, especially in the core zones of the biosphere reserve, are closed. Wild launching is prohibited.
When is the best time to paddle in the Spreewald?
May to September. It is quieter and has fewer mosquitoes in spring, in autumn and on weekdays.