Castles · CANOES & KAYAKS
The shortlist you would send a friend who asked: 3 canoes & kayaks tours worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before the slot is booked.
You cruise the Elbe from Dresden beneath Brühl’s Terrace, passing Dresden’s skyline, four Elbe castles, Pillnitz Palace, Bastei near Rathen, and Königstein Fortress. Choose a round trip or one-way sailing. Commentary is provided in English and German by announcements or app. The 4.5 to 9.5 hour schedule needs careful checking.
Join Ledjon from OpenTour Albania for a half-day trip from Saranda to Lekursi Castle and the Blue Eye. You’ll paddle for about 80 minutes, enjoy free time to swim or take photos, then walk to the spring. Air-conditioned transport, kayak equipment, entry fee, and English guidance are included.
“The best part of the trip was the kayaking, hands down. That does not mean that the rest was boring or not good, but for me the kayaking is what makes this trip special. You get to enjoy the crystal clear, but cold waters which is particularly nice on a hot day. If I had just gone to Blue Eye for the spring, without the kayaking, I might have even been disappointed. Overall, this is a well-rounded tour. Ledjon as a guide knows exactly how much historical and political background information is needed, but can always provide more. As others have mentioned, parking near the starting point is difficult, so…”
Sea Kayak Nafplio takes you from Karathona Beach along the coast and beneath Bourtzi, Acronafplia, and Palamidi. Guides Alex, Olivier, Dante, and others combine easy paddling lessons with vivid stories about Greek battles and port defenses. Expect a swim and snorkel stop, homemade orange cake, fresh melon, photos, and a small group capped at 20.
“Alex was amazing. Our ship didn’t dock in time to be there exactly at 9am so he waited until we got there around 920. He was so nice. He was very careful to explain all the safety issues. Then his tour was fantastic and he was so knowledgeable and his explanations just brought everything to life. Antonia was wonderful. The little beach they brought us to was incredible and then they offered us fruit and homemade pound cake. The whole experience was awesome. I highly recommend this tour to everyone.”
By the kind of castle day, rather than the country.
