Welcome to our new series “Canoeing in Germany”, in which we test various lakes and rivers in Germany for their suitability for canoe and SUP tours. Whether large, well-known bodies of water or small, hidden lakes – we try them out for you and rate them according to criteria such as accessibility, nature experience, suitability for beginners and advanced paddlers as well as available overnight accommodation. Today we take you to Lake Netzen, the first destination in this series to be explored.

Why explore new waters – canoeing in Germany

Many of us have our favorite waters that we visit regularly – for me, for example, it’s the Elbe. But there are so many other lakes and rivers to discover. However, it often fails because you don’t know exactly where to find a suitable access point, whether the water is even suitable for a tour or whether there are perhaps dangerous spots that you should avoid as a beginner.

Many of us have our favorite bodies of water that we visit regularly – for me, for example, it’s the Elbe. But there are so many other lakes and rivers that want to be discovered. The question often arises: Where is a good entry point? What is the nature of the water? Are there any potentially dangerous spots? I myself have been kayaking for many years and am confident in my abilities. Recently, however, I bought a SUP (stand-up paddleboard) because it’s easier to transport – ideal for tours that you can reach by public transport or car. A good, used SUP is also still much cheaper than an inflatable kayak. Incidentally, I would strongly advise against using a cheap inflatable kayak on flowing waters – the risk is simply too high and it can quickly become dangerous.

Lake Netzen: a tranquil natural paradise near Lehnin Monastery

Our first destination in this series is Lake Netzener See, located near Lehnin Monastery in Brandenburg. The Potsdam and Brandenburg Havel lakes form an extensive network of bodies of water that also includes Lake Rietz, Lake Netzen and the monastery lake. These three lakes are interconnected and offer a wide range of opportunities for water sports enthusiasts.

Lake Netzen is an ideal starting point for a relaxed half-day or full-day tour. The perfect starting point is at the Emster Canal landing stage. Here there is parking for a maximum of 3 vehicles, a comfortable seating area and an excellently located jetty that is ideal for boarding. The entry point is easily accessible and offers a comfortable start to the tour for both beginners and advanced boaters.

You can find the exact coordinates here.

The tour: from quiet canals to wide lakes

From the boarding point at the Emster Canal landing stage, the tour begins with a trip down the Emster Canal on the right. This leads under a bridge and directly into Lake Netzen. It is clear from the first few meters that this tour offers one thing above all: Peace and pure nature. The canal is surrounded by dense vegetation and immediately conveys a feeling of seclusion.

Lake Netzen itself is a relatively calm body of water, ideal for anyone looking for a relaxed tour without a lot of swell. On this glorious summer’s day, I only encountered a few motorboats, which are permitted on the lakes. The tour runs along the middle of the lake, once through the length of Lake Netzen. The shores of the lake are lined with numerous private bungalows, which provide an idyllic backdrop. It’s easy to imagine spending the whole summer here – it’s enough to make you a little envious.

For those who want to refresh themselves during the tour, there is a small beach with a jetty on the right-hand side of the lake relatively at the beginning. This invites you to take a short break for a refreshing dip or simply to enjoy the view.

Onward journey to Klostersee

Once you have completely crossed Lake Netzen, you will see a small harbor at the end of the lake. After the harbour, turn right into another canal, which leads briefly under the A2 highway. After this short passage, you will reach the Klostersee, which can also be completely navigated. This part of the tour offers another peaceful and natural experience before you make your way back.

Option for a full-day tour: extension to Lake Rietz

For those who are planning a longer tour, there is the option of leaving the entry point on the Emster Canal on the return trip and following the canal further into Lake Rietz. This larger lake offers a completely different experience and allows you to spend the whole day on the water. You can do an extended lap here before setting off on the return journey.

Overnight accommodation: Relaxing in nature

If you want to enjoy the tour over several days, there is also overnight accommodation for campers at the Emster Canal landing stage. Although the space is limited and offers room for a maximum of three vehicles, the location is really beautiful and secluded. Here you can end the day in comfort and head straight back out onto the water the next morning.

Conclusion: A tour that combines nature and relaxation

The tour on Lake Netzen and the adjacent waters is a wonderful way to escape from everyday life and enjoy nature without being far away from civilization. The entry point at the Emster Canal landing stage is excellent and deserves a full 10 out of 10 points. The tour itself is well suited for both canoes and SUPs and offers a safe and relaxed environment, especially for beginners.

The water quality of the Netzener See is okay – the lakes are beautiful, but the water is not particularly clear, which is why I give it 6 out of 10 points. The overnight accommodation for campers is also very nice, even if space is limited. I give it 8 out of 10 points for this.

All in all, this tour is ideal for anyone who simply wants to get out and enjoy a relaxed paddling tour without missing out on the proximity to civilization. Whether as a half-day tour or a full-day adventure – Lake Netzen is definitely worth a visit.

Reviews of the tour in the category “Canoeing in Germany”

Entry point at the Emster Canal jetty: 10 out of 10 points

Suitability for canoes and SUPs, especially for beginners: Very suitable

Water quality: 6 out of 10 points (beautiful lakes, but not clear water)

Overnight accommodation for campers: 8 out of 10 points

This article may contain affiliate links.  I receive a small commission when you purchase products or services through these links at absolutely no extra cost to you. This is a free way to support me and allow me to continue to create inspiring adventure travel guides. See my disclosure notice for more information.