Germany's waterway network is extensive, and many federal waterways, rivers, and lakes, which are rarely used by cargo ships today, are a true paradise for planned SUP river tours. Recreational use of secondary waterways is becoming increasingly popular, as from the water, you gain a completely new perspective on numerous sights and natural phenomena. Whether it's a multi-hour SUP river tour, a day trip, or a weekend-long canoe trip, in this article we'll share our favorite routes with you, offering some guaranteed highlights, plenty of peace and quiet on the water, and attractive rest stops on dry land. Before you begin, you'll also receive a checklist to ensure you're perfectly equipped for your SUP river tour.

Tip: If you are planning a multi-day SUP river tour, a Touring board The best companion. Not only does the generous surface area offer ample room for you and your gear, the SUP also offers significantly better gliding characteristics, so you need less power for paddling. This can make all the difference on longer tours.

This belongs on the board during a river tour with the SUP

On a SUP river tour, less is always more, but generally, you should always have the most important things on board. No matter what you end up taking with you, make sure that the equipment is waterproof. Dry bags This keeps everything dry in rain or while navigating rapids, and the SUP's rubber straps keep it in place. SUP bags are available in different sizes.

What you should take with you on a SUP river tour:

• 30-40 liter dry bag
• Change of clothes
• Shoes
• Headgear
• Tent
• Sleeping bag and sleeping mat
• pillow
• First aid kit and repair kit
• small gas stove and fire
• Pot with lid
• Cutlery
• Non-perishable foods, snacks such as muesli bars and sufficient fluids/sports drinks
• Hygiene products
• tweezers
• Water protection case for the smartphone
• Power bank
• Sun and insect protection
• sunglasses
• life jacket
• Distress flares or emergency whistle

This list is intended as inspiration. If you're only planning a SUP river tour lasting several hours, you obviously don't need a tent or a gas stove. Feel free to adapt the list to your individual needs.

The most beautiful waters, lakes, etc. for river tours with the SUP

Across Germany, there are countless fantastic destinations for SUP river tours. Below, we'll introduce you to some of the river tours you can try with your SUP. Have fun exploring!

The Eibsee in Bavaria

Nine kilometers from Garmisch-Partenkirchen and in close proximity to the impressive Zugspitze mountain lies Lake Eibsee, arguably the most beautiful lake in the Alps. The crystal-clear waters combined with the mountain panorama leave nothing to be desired for a first-class SUP tour. The Untersee, in particular, is perfect for paddling, and exploring the eight small islands on the north shore should also be on your SUP river tour list. If you start your adventure early in the morning, you can look forward to many peaceful hours on your SUP in this unique natural setting.

SUP river tour on the Lahn

The Lahn is a tributary of the famous Rhine and is considered by many canoeists and SUP paddlers to be Germany's most beautiful river for hiking. Around 245 kilometers await you, so you can plan a fantastic SUP river tour here. The many sights you'll paddle past are also remarkable. A definite recommendation for anyone who wants to experience more highlights besides nature.

SUP tour in the city

How about a SUP river tour through the city? Berlin's Müggelspree, for example, is a perfect option. It takes you through the capital's most beautiful parts of the city, aptly named "New Venice." Equally interesting is a SUP river tour starting at Leipzig's city harbor, along the Karl Heine Canal, past numerous villas, Wilhelminian-era buildings, and natural oases. The great thing about such a city SUP river tour is that you can then indulge in a delicious meal in one of the city's restaurants or cafés. In Leipzig, this would traditionally be a Leipziger Lerchen – a sweet tart temptation made of shortcrust pastry and marzipan, served with vanilla sauce.

Beautiful SUP trip to the Bleiloch Dam

We have one last SUP river tour for you. The Bleiloch Dam is the perfect place for SUP paddlers who want to unwind surrounded by beautiful nature. Nestled between hills and forests in Thuringia, the lake is a popular local recreation area. If you're looking for something to entertain you during your tour, the second weekend in August is a great time. The "SonneMondSterne" festival has been taking place here on the eastern shore since 1997.

Final tips for your SUP river tour

Finally, we'll give you a few ideas on where and how to find and plan the best tours.

• On the side of SUPscout.de you will find numerous tours posted by paddlers, some of which are described in great detail.
• The book “ SUP Travel Guide Germany: The 50 Most Beautiful Routes for Stand-Up Paddling ” offers you a great overview of the best SUP hotspots, including recommendations for restaurants, cafés, and accommodation options.
• The RiverApp is the multifunctional smartphone tool for SUP tours of all kinds. Check water levels, find suitable route sections, and possible entry and exit points. All in one app.
• If you would like to find out in advance how to find and plan the right SUP river tour, you should listen to the SUP Online Academy podcast. Episode 31 deals with this topic in detail.

We wish you lots of fun on your next SUP river tour and are of course available to advise you at any time if you have any questions.