Dinant Evasion
Experience the beauty of Dinant with kayaking adventures on the Lesse River and scenic cruises on the Meuse.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Dinant Evasion
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the beauty of Dinant with kayaking adventures on the Lesse River and scenic cruises on the Meuse.
"Beautiful scenery tho.."
👟 Wear Water-Friendly Shoes
Essential for kayaking; they can get wet and help with stability.
☀️ Sunscreen is a Must
Protect yourself from the sun, especially during longer river trips.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayak the Lesse River
Lesse River Valley
Paddle through stunning nature, past castles, and under bridges on a 2-3 hour adventure.
Meuse River Cruise
Meuse River
Enjoy a scenic boat trip, passing historical sites and the impressive Château de Freÿr.
Citadel of Dinant Views
Citadel of Dinant
Take the cable car up for panoramic views of Dinant and the Meuse valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Prepare for Water Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Water-Friendly Shoes
Essential for kayaking; they can get wet and help with stability.
☀️ Sunscreen is a Must
Protect yourself from the sun, especially during longer river trips.
🎒 Pack Light for Kayaking
Bring only essentials; a waterproof bag is recommended for valuables.
📅 Book Kayak Trips Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Water-Friendly Shoes
Essential for kayaking; they can get wet and help with stability.
☀️ Sunscreen is a Must
Protect yourself from the sun, especially during longer river trips.
🎒 Pack Light for Kayaking
Bring only essentials; a waterproof bag is recommended for valuables.
📅 Book Kayak Trips Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Kayaking?
While advertised as dog-friendly, the entry can be challenging for pets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dinant Evasion generally offers well-organized activities with beautiful scenery, particularly the kayaking and river cruises. While many praise the friendly staff and enjoyable routes, some reviews mention overcrowding during peak times and low water levels on the Lesse River, which can impact the kayaking experience. +1
"Not sure why there are so many one star reviews! We arrived an hour late and the host was kind and accommodating. Had trouble with the POS system and they were kind enough to let us pay after. The kayaks were very good, beautiful route. Some punk kids in the river but it is what it is. Had a great day thanks to them, would recommend to anyone!"
James Weseman
"Well organized. A bus will bring you to the location, apprx 10min drive. Once you get there, you can pick your paddles and if you wish can get a life jacket. It's a good 2-3 hour canoeing down to the finish. Recommended: bring little as possible, sun screen, shoes which you don't mind getting wet (just in case you fall or want to stop somewhere on the side for a sandwich), and most importantly friends and family to have fun and enjoy!"
Mateo
"If you like the Efteling you will definitely enjoy this, I never knew that you could industrialise kayaking, you’ll see more boats than water. The organisation doesn’t care about providing a nice experience. The water was way too low, constant dragging of the boat over the stones. Way too crowded and definitely not an enjoy full experience at all.
Beautiful scenery tho.."
sam B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
For kayaking, you can take a train from Brussels-Midi to Gendron-Celles station, which is a short walk from the starting point. Alternatively, Dinant Evasion offers shuttle services from Dinant.
Yes, parking is available at the departure point in Dinant. The company also provides shuttle services to the kayaking start points.
Yes, you can reach Dinant by train. For kayaking, the Gendron-Celles station is conveniently located near a starting point.
Dinant is accessible by train. If you're coming from Brussels, it's a direct train line.
Yes, kayaking departures are typically from Rue du Vélodrome in Dinant, with shuttles to various river starting points. Cruises also depart from Dinant.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can book your kayak adventure directly on the Dinant Evasion website, www.dinantevasion.be. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Dinant Evasion offers three main kayak routes: 21 km (approx. 5 hours), 12 km (approx. 2.5 hours), and 9 km (approx. 2 hours).
While generally accessible, the longer routes can be physically demanding. It's advisable to be in reasonable physical condition.
It's best to book online in advance, especially during peak season, as spots can fill up quickly.
Kayak rentals typically include the kayak, paddle, and a shuttle service back to the starting point. Life jackets are usually available upon request.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Lesse River offers beautiful scenery, passing through nature, past castles like Walzin, and under bridges. However, water levels can be low at times, requiring dragging the kayak.
Yes, it can get very crowded, especially on busy days and during summer. This can lead to waiting times and a 'mass tourism' feel. +1
Visiting on weekdays or during the morning can help you avoid the peak crowds.
While generally safe, be aware of low water levels, potential obstacles, and other kayakers. Life jackets are recommended.
Dinant Evasion also offers boat cruises on the Meuse River, and adventure activities like via ferrata and zip-lining.
📸 📸 Photography
The kayak trip offers stunning views of the Lesse valley, Walzin Castle, and the natural landscape. River cruises provide unique perspectives of Dinant and its surroundings.
It's advisable to use a waterproof camera or a secure waterproof bag for your phone and camera to protect them from water.
Taking the cable car up to the Citadel of Dinant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the Meuse River.
The Meuse River cruise passes by the Château de Freÿr, the old Prieuré, and the iconic Roches de Dinant.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more picturesque shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the Citadel of Dinant's cable car ride as an exciting activity for kids, offering great views and a unique ascent.
👫 Couples
🧑🤝🧑 Groups & Team Building
+1 They also offer adventure activities like via ferrata and zip-lining, which are excellent for fostering teamwork and shared experiences. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Kayaking the Lesse River: What to Expect
It's a popular activity, so expect it to be busy, especially during summer weekends. While the scenery is beautiful, some visitors have noted that the river can be shallow in places, requiring you to drag your kayak over stones.
To make the most of your kayaking adventure, it's recommended to book online in advance, wear appropriate footwear that can get wet, and bring sunscreen. Life jackets are available, and the company provides shuttle services to transport you back to your starting point.
Meuse River Cruises: A Different Perspective
The cruises often utilize vintage boats, adding a touch of historical charm to the experience. It's a more leisurely way to explore the area, perfect for those who prefer a less active adventure or want to see the sights from the water without paddling.
These cruises are a great alternative or addition to kayaking, offering a different pace and perspective of the Dinant region. They are generally well-organized and provide a pleasant way to spend a few hours soaking in the local atmosphere.
Adventure Activities Beyond the Water
These activities are often suitable for team-building events or for those seeking a more adventurous experience in the Dinant area. They provide a different kind of thrill compared to the river excursions, focusing on vertical challenges and speed.
While kayaking and cruises are the most frequently highlighted activities, these adventure options add to the diverse offerings of Dinant Evasion, catering to a wider range of interests and thrill-seekers.
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