Canoe
Over five percent of the surface of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern can only be set foot on during severely cold temperatures – because it is covered by water. All the more, during the major part of the year over 2,000 lakes as well as the numerous natural rivers and the canals of our land invite canoeists and kayak paddlers to set out on discovery trips.
More than almost any other sport, rambling on the water makes it possible to recover from every day life in harmony with nature. Breathe in the serenity of forests and meadows while you glide leisurely on the water. Master the waves and currents on the Müritz, the largest continental lake in Germany. Or devote your complete attention to all the living creatures that populate the broad reed belt of the rivers and the lakes. You will have a canoeist’s-eye view of rare water birds and, with a little bit of luck, you may even be able to watch a beaver or a fish otter.
There is a large network of waterways available for your canoeing trips. Only about 430 kilometres of the waterways of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are navigable, it is true, however, flat canoes are suitable for many waters where boats with greater draft have no access. Those who are seeking great adventure and want to cover long distances can even reach Hamburg, Berlin or the Baltic Sea from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Finding a place to rest is no problem, as there are numerous campsites and rest areas along the water routes.
Water rambling is a kind of gentle tourism with virtually no negative impact on the environment. Your canoeing trips will lead you past nature reserves and give you unusual insights into the local fauna and flora. You can help to preserve the precious treasures of nature by observing some rules and regulations.