Kayaking and canoeing in the Lautertal
The Große Lauter was for many years a popular river for kayakers and canoeists. Unfortunately, there are no longer any commercial hire companies that not only provide boats but also organise a return service. Nevertheless, it remains wildly romantic Lautertal valley appeals to water sports enthusiasts. Paddling is still possible! It passes villages and castles, meadows and floodplains. Some experience is required when navigating tight bends or rapids. A tour from Buttenhausen to Indelhausen is recommended. Above Buttenhausen, canoeing is not permitted for nature conservation reasons, and past Indelhausen the trip is somewhat arduous due to obstacles. The beaver has done a thorough job here. Tree obstacles frequently have to be portaged. However, if the water level is suitable, you can paddle on as far as the Danube. The recommended route is 13 km long. Two weirs have to be portaged along the way. A few rapids and a whitewater section near Gundelfingen provide a sense of adventure.
Inflatable kayaks and packrafts
We recommend daring to take a trip on the Lauter in an inflatable kayak. This is easy to transport. From there, the bus can be taken for the journey back to the starting point, which is located at the Riedwiesen hiking car park in Buttenhausen. Packrafts are even lighter than inflatable kayaks. These are inflatable yet robust dinghies that even fit in a backpack. They have a shallow draught and are gentle on the sensitive riverbed when paddling.
Navigation rules for the Lauter
The Große Lauter must not be navigated between 15 March and 30 June. From 1 July to 30 September, trips are not permitted at weekends. During the remaining time, nothing stands in the way of a Lauter trip. In summer, however, care should be taken to ensure that the water level is high enough.
Our country hotel is located where the river Lauter rises. It is just a 12-minute drive to the starting point in Buttenhausen. If you are missing the right equipment, please feel free to speak to us.
Danube, Neckar and Lauchert
Those for whom the Lauter is not enough will find further interesting paddling areas not far from Offenhausen. One of the finest tours is located in the Upper Danube Valley. From Beuron to Sigmaringen, the Danube reveals its most magnificent side in the Swabian „Grand Canyon“. A kayak trip on the Danube from Riedlingen to picturesque Munderkingen is also to be recommended. The Neckar is a good half-hour drive from Offenhausen. There, one can paddle in a relaxed manner, including upstream. Little known is the Lauchert. This small river offers a nature-filled paddling adventure on the Swabian Alb. A good starting point is in Hettingen. For the trip on the Lauchert, a light boat is strongly recommended, as obstacles must be expected.
