Europe Explored » rivers https://europeexplored.com Travel through the most beautiful places in Europe Sun, 08 Sep 2013 13:36:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=3.6 Mumlava waterfalls – the most powerful waterfalls in Krkonoše mountains | Czech Republic https://europeexplored.com/2012/02/22/mumlava-waterfalls-the-most-powerful-waterfalls-in-krkonose-mountains-czech-republic/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/02/22/mumlava-waterfalls-the-most-powerful-waterfalls-in-krkonose-mountains-czech-republic/#comments Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:16:13 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=6287 Mumlava waterfalls are located in the northern part of the Czech Republic, on the river Mumlava, less than a kilometer north of the famous winter center of Harrachov. Mumlava waterfalls are formed by rocky stones with a height of up to 12 metres arranged in steps. They is the most powerful waterfalls in Krkonoše mountains. […]

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Mumlava waterfalls are located in the northern part of the Czech Republic, on the river Mumlava, less than a kilometer north of the famous winter center of Harrachov. Mumlava waterfalls are formed by rocky stones with a height of up to 12 metres arranged in steps. They is the most powerful waterfalls in Krkonoše mountains.

Mumlava waterfalls, Harrachov, The Czech Republic
Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Jaroslav Kuba

Near the waterfalls is located Mumlava shed – a restaurant. Falls are easily accessible on foot or by bike along the asphalt road, an access for motor vehicles is not allowed, so you will not be disturbed. From Mumlava waterfalls you can continue to Vosecká shed.

In the surroundings of Harrachov you can find more rivers offering the similar phenomena, such as waterfalls, but they certainly can not be compared with Mumlava waterfall. Its height reaches up to 8 meters and is 10 meters wide. The waterfalls are different in every season, so whether you come in summer, or spring, or any other time you will see them always in a different form.

On the way to Mumlava waterfalls you can visit the mining museum, which is accessible throughout the year. Or you can hike to any of the countless wonderful places in Krkonoše National Park.


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Canoeing and rafting on the Czech rivers https://europeexplored.com/2011/07/15/canoeing-and-rafting-on-the-czech-rivers/ https://europeexplored.com/2011/07/15/canoeing-and-rafting-on-the-czech-rivers/#comments Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:54:22 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=4677 If you like active holidays and prefer nature to sights, and would like to experience something different, I would suggest you to try canoeing or rafting in the Czech republic. It is really cheap and suitable also for the families with kids. You don’t have to be an expert in canoeing, as Czech rivers are […]

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If you like active holidays and prefer nature to sights, and would like to experience something different, I would suggest you to try canoeing or rafting in the Czech republic.

It is really cheap and suitable also for the families with kids. You don’t have to be an expert in canoeing, as Czech rivers are not as wild. It is even suitable for those that have never been rafting before. However you have to meet one requirement – you have to love water.

There are about 500 rivers that you can raft in the Czech republic. We prepared for you just a short overview of the most popular rivers you should start with.

Vltava river - Canoeing and rafting on the Czech riversVltava river
The very Czech river is usually rafted from the town of Vyšší Brod to the city of České Budějovice. It is possible to add additional two days from Lenora to Lipno or two days from Prague to Mělník. On all these sections the river flows nicely and is suitable for tourist canoe. Very popular is sailing down the all the dams on the Vltava between České Budějovice and Prague on sea kayaks. Also, if you would like to get an unforgettable experience you should pass through the Czech capital – Prague, or through the city of Český Krumlov.

+ Beautiful landscape, nice flow, most dams are rideable
- Too many boaters and full camps.

Rental services on Vltava river: www.ingetour.cz

Sazava river - Canoeing and rafting on the Czech riversSázava river
Sázava provides two interesting sections – one is at the beginning and one at the end. The section between Týnec nad Sázavou and Pikovice belongs to the most popular ones in the Czech republic.
+ Interesting rapids
- Dangerous weirs, long stretches without power, many boaters on the downstream

Rental services on Sazava river: www.pujcovna-lodi.cz (only in Czech)

Lužnice river
Lužnice has already been described in the separated article here.

Berounka river - Rafting and Canoeing on Czech riversBerounka river
If you’ve never been on the water yet, Berounka river is ideal for you. It does not flow too fast, it is broad and water level is enough high throughout the year. The list of superlatives can include a beautiful nature, interesting sights all around and the camping almost on every turn. Those looking for comfort, night guitar just at the fireplace, pubs or walks to the surrounding ruins, will find Berounka as the best solution. Here you can meet the groups that runs the same river for decades.

+ Forests and meadows, many nice campsites, monuments and sights
- Dry after the weirs

Rental services on Berounka river: www.rekaberounka.cz

Ohre river - Canoeing and rafting on the Czech riversOhře river
Ohře river is a number 2 among the most popular canoeing rivers. It is powerful, and fresh. Fast flow alternates with rapids. It often passes under the rocks, on which is castle or at least the ruins. The historic town of Cheb, Karlovy Vary and Kadaň worth seeing. Many camps offer only cheap place for a tent and a simple toilet, but there is also a number of comfortably equipped campsites.

+ Live river, fast flow, romantic landscape
- Too many boaters

Rental services on Ohře river: www.dronte.cz

Otava riverOtava river
Castles, beer, sausage, relax – it’s Otava. Nicely flowing through the planes of Šumava forests to Orlík lake. There is no unpleasant surprises waiting for the paddlers. During the holidays it is full of boaters, but the number of boats and tents in the camps is reasonable.

+ Peaceful atmosphere
- In the hot summer can be the lack of water

Rental services on Otava river: www.lodniservis.cz


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Oudegracht – one of the most famous and most beautiful canals in the Netherlands https://europeexplored.com/2011/05/11/oudegracht-one-of-the-most-famous-and-most-beautiful-canals-in-the-netherlands/ https://europeexplored.com/2011/05/11/oudegracht-one-of-the-most-famous-and-most-beautiful-canals-in-the-netherlands/#comments Wed, 11 May 2011 14:38:01 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=3735 Oudegracht (The Old Canal) is a historic canal that flows through the center of the city of Utrecht in the Netherlands. It is one of the most famous and most beautiful canals in the country. It is easily accessible on foot from the central station in Utrecht. Oudegracht begins in the south-eastern part of the […]

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Oudegracht (The Old Canal) is a historic canal that flows through the center of the city of Utrecht in the Netherlands. It is one of the most famous and most beautiful canals in the country. It is easily accessible on foot from the central station in Utrecht.

Oudegracht begins in the south-eastern part of the city where are joining together the rivers Kromme Rijn and Vaartse Rijn, and where begins the original moat of the fortified town. Oudegracht then continues to the center of Utrecht. Part of Oudegracht follows the original course of the river Rhine, but it is not certain which part of it is.


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The northern part of Oudegracht is probably older, it dates back to around the 10th century and connects the River Rhine with the River Vecht. The construction of the southern part began in 1122, but then the river level dropped due to the completion of the new dam in Wijk bij Duurstede. Exposed shores were then used to protect the city from flooding. Since 1275 the water level is stable.

Oudegracht form a vibrant center of Utrecht. It is alive on both sides. Here you can sit on numerous outdoor terraces and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the place, watching the ships and boats or take a walk around the water where you can find a quiet picturesque places in the shade of aged trees. Also such a night lit Oudegracht belongs to a very romantic experience.

You can explore the beauty of Oudegracht for hours from its banks, bridges or from the water. There are organized cruises and gondola cruises, or you can rent canoes or paddle boats.


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Pollino National Park – largest national park in Italy https://europeexplored.com/2011/02/22/pollino-national-park-largest-national-park-in-italy/ https://europeexplored.com/2011/02/22/pollino-national-park-largest-national-park-in-italy/#comments Tue, 22 Feb 2011 11:15:20 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=2634 Pollino National Park with a total area of 1,820km2 is the largest national park in Italy. It is located in the regions of Calabria and Basilicata, and the total area of three provinces – Cesenza, Matera, Potenza. Pollino National Park was established in 1993. On its territory lies 56 municipalities and there are 172,000 people […]

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Pollino National Park with a total area of 1,820km2 is the largest national park in Italy. It is located in the regions of Calabria and Basilicata, and the total area of three provinces – Cesenza, Matera, Potenza. Pollino National Park was established in 1993. On its territory lies 56 municipalities and there are 172,000 people permanently living here.

Throughout the Pollino National Park flow more than 10 rivers. The highest mountain of the park is the mountain Serra Dolcedorme, which reaches an altitude of 2267m. Other peaks are Monte Pollino (2248 m), Serra del Prete (2181 m), Serra delle Ciavole (2127 m) or Serra di Crispo (2053 m).


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The park include also four nature reserves and rocky complexes, such as Pietra Campauara and Tavola dei Briganti.

Pollino National Park as a whole is one of the most beautiful sceneries in southern Italy. There is a rich plant and animal diversity.

For hiking and cycling you can use lots of marked trails.


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Šumava National Park in Czech republic https://europeexplored.com/2010/09/07/sumava-national-park-in-czech-republic/ https://europeexplored.com/2010/09/07/sumava-national-park-in-czech-republic/#comments Tue, 07 Sep 2010 07:48:19 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=1520 Šumava National Park is one of the most beautiful part of the Czech Republic and is a great holiday destination especially for families thanks to the lots of activities one can do there. It is a wonderful place to hike, bike, go horseback riding and water sports. In the winter there are great facilities for […]

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Šumava National Park is one of the most beautiful part of the Czech Republic and is a great holiday destination especially for families thanks to the lots of activities one can do there. It is a wonderful place to hike, bike, go horseback riding and water sports. In the winter there are great facilities for downhill and cross country skiing in the Šumava region.

Šumava National Park is situated at the southwest border of the Czech Republic with Germany and Austria and is located in three different regions – Český Krumlov, Prachatice, and Klatovy.

There are many river springs. The major rivers in the area are the Vltava, Vydra and Křemelná, which create the river Otava at their confluence, then Volyňka, and Blanice. There are eight glacial lakes at about 1000 – 1100 m above sea level. On the Czech side of the Šumava they have an area of 42 ha, their names are Laka, Prášilské, Plešné, Černé, and Čertovo.


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Écrins National Park in France – one of the most popular ecotourism destinations https://europeexplored.com/2010/06/20/ecrins-national-park-in-france/ https://europeexplored.com/2010/06/20/ecrins-national-park-in-france/#comments Sun, 20 Jun 2010 08:17:53 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=324 You will find Écrins National Park in the South East part of France. The park is perhaps one of the most popular ecotourism destinations in the region, with almost 1 million visitors making their way to the area every single year. The park itself is composed mostly of the Dauphiné Alps, a prominent mountain range […]

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You will find Écrins National Park in the South East part of France. The park is perhaps one of the most popular ecotourism destinations in the region, with almost 1 million visitors making their way to the area every single year.

The park itself is composed mostly of the Dauphiné Alps, a prominent mountain range that is located just to the south of Grenoble. Écrins National Park covers an area of just over 908 square kilometers of mountains. There are also glacial fields and valleys as well as pastures, woodlands, rivers and lakes.

Écrins National Park in France
Écrins National Park in France by Guillaume Baviere

The most prominent mountain peak within the Park is that of the Barre des Ecrins which rises more than 4,102 meters above sea level. However, there are many other mountain peaks that can be found in or around Écrins National Park.

There are many things to see and do in Écrins National Park regardless of the time of year. The glacial fields and valleys are perfect for skiing especially during the wintertime. The rest of the region offers some of the finest summertime recreation available; including hiking, camping as well as canoeing and kayaking. There are number of rivers that can be found throughout the park including the Romanche, Drac as well as the Durance.

Huge waterfall in Écrins National Park, France
Huge waterfall in Écrins National Park, France by Guillaume Baviere

Écrins National Park is important wildlife protection area that has been dedicated to a number of important animal and plant life; some of which is in danger of extinction. Nonetheless, choosing to visit the park is an amazing experience regardless of who you are. The awe-inspiring and picturesque views that are afforded to one who visits Écrins National Park, make the trek worthwhile.

There is a reason why so many people make their way to the Écrins National Park each and every single year. From the natural beauty to the untouched wonders the park has to offer, you could find yourself busy for days on end.

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Danube Delta in Romania – second largest delta in Europe https://europeexplored.com/2010/05/26/danube-delta-in-romania/ https://europeexplored.com/2010/05/26/danube-delta-in-romania/#comments Wed, 26 May 2010 16:57:45 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=229 Perhaps one of the most famous rivers in all of Europe is that of the Danube River. And although the river meanders its way through much of continent, it is in the nation of Romania, where one can find the Danube Delta where the river flows into the Black Sea. The Danube Delta is considered […]

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Perhaps one of the most famous rivers in all of Europe is that of the Danube River. And although the river meanders its way through much of continent, it is in the nation of Romania, where one can find the Danube Delta where the river flows into the Black Sea.

The Danube Delta is considered to be the second largest Delta in all of Europe (just after Volga delta). It is also one of the most well preserved ecological destinations in the country. There are a number of lagoons, which can be found throughout the Delta region, including that of the 1015 square kilometres Razim-Sinoe Lagoon.

Danube Delta, Romania
Danube Delta, Romania by Acaro

Today, the Danube Delta consists of three main distributaries which includes the Sfântul Gheorghe, Sulina as well as the Chilia. There are also a number of large lakes that can be found within the area that includes the Dranov, Gorgova as well as the Roşu. Among them you will find many of the most fertile and picturesque marshes and lagoons that have made the Danube Delta one of the most popular destinations not just in Romania but also throughout the entire region of Europe.

Thanks to its location along the Black Sea, the area around the Danube Delta features a unique microclimate which results in one of the driest as well as sunniest areas in all of Romania. It is estimated that every year, there are more than 2500 hours of sunshine, which equates to roughly 70 days of clear blue skies. And although there are more than 400 millimetres a year of precipitation there are more than 1000 millimetres a year of evaporation. As a result, the year-round climate associated with the Danube Delta makes it a pristine destination in the country.

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