Paddle the Best of Wales

Explore the best canoeing and kayaking in North Wales with our team of professional instructors. Experience thrilling white-water rapids, peaceful flat-water lakes, and exciting moving rivers.

Level: Grade 1-2 river journey

Email us to join the waiting list or contact us for a private group booking
£599

Contact us for 2026 dates
Duration: 5 days

Discover the stunning waterways of Snowdonia and North Wales on this unique five-day paddling journey. From tranquil lakes and tidal estuaries to lively rivers and the iconic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct (the “River in the Sky”), this trip blends wild beauty, rich heritage, and unforgettable adventure. Perfect for those looking to develop skills, explore new waters, and experience some of the UK’s most spectacular paddling locations.

You will love 5 exciting days of paddling iconic Welsh landscapes with creeks, shooting rapids, exploring estuaries, riding waves, and having the adventure of a lifetime.

Trip Overview

Duration: 5 days
Price: £599 per person
Dates: Contact us for 2026 availability / join the waiting list
Group size: Small groups for a personal experience
Skill level: Suitable for all abilities (Grade 1–2 water)
Craft: Canoes or kayaks available

Expedition Highlights

Paddle Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) – the largest natural lake in Wales
Explore the tidal waters of the Mawddach Estuary with its dramatic mountain backdrop
Journey along the River Dee and cross the world-famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Enjoy river coaching and fun rapids below Llangollen
Finish with the tidal Dwyryd Estuary, paddling out to the open sea
Wild-camping, hearty meals, and campfires under the stars

What’s Included

We provide all the specialist kit and guiding you’ll need:

Canoe or kayak, paddle, buoyancy aid, helmet, dry bag
Professional coaching and guiding throughout
Evening meals and breakfasts during the expedition
Campsite arrangements
Safety equipment and support boat if required

What You’ll Need to Bring

Please bring your own:

Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat
Packed lunches and snacks
Personal clothing (suitable for mixed weather), spare dry clothes, waterproofs
Footwear for paddling and campsite use
Cutlery, bowl, mug, knife & fork

Optional extras (hire available):

Waterproofs, wetsuits, tipi tents, back support seats

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 – Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid)

Meet at Bala, kit issue and expedition briefing. A chance to explore the lake, develop paddling strokes, and settle into camp.

Day 2 – Mawddach Estuary

Paddle through a tidal landscape surrounded by the peaks of Snowdonia. Spot birdlife and enjoy the changing currents.

Day 3 – River Dee & Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

A highlight of the trip: paddle across the “River in the Sky” before continuing downriver through beautiful valleys.

Day 4 – Rapids & Skills

Take on sections of the Dee below Llangollen, with opportunities for coaching on moving water, eddy turns, and river reading.

Day 5 – Dwyryd Estuary to the Sea

A memorable finish as we paddle out through the estuary to meet the sea, celebrating the journey with a final group meal.

Who Is This Trip For?

This expedition is suitable for paddlers of all abilities. Beginners will be supported with coaching and steady progress, while more experienced paddlers can refine their moving-water skills. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, as we’ll be paddling for several hours each day.

Testimonials

“An incredible experience exploring the waterways of Wales with Canoe Trail. Stunning scenery, expert coaching, and a brilliant team spirit throughout.” – Sarah

“Crossing the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct by canoe was unforgettable! I’ll be back for another trip.” – Tom

Why Join Canoe Trail?

Multi-award-winning, family-run adventure company
Featured in national press and outdoor adventure publications
Experienced, qualified guides with a passion for sharing the outdoors
Friendly, small-group approach with focus on safety, fun, and skill development

The trip will be based out of a local waterside campsite, and we will pick paddling locations to fit with the weather and conditions to maximise our adventure.

No experience is necessary however we will move participants subject to conditions and experience including selecting the best location for the weather, using tandem canoes or single kayaks (please specify) to provide a more stable ride and also spending time coaching and exploring Welsh Waters.

This is, without doubt, one of our favourite locations to canoe around the UK with clear and stunning waters, majestic wildlife and plenty of history to enjoy. This is your chance to join our instructor team on a bucket list trip of a lifetime.

Note: Itinerary subject to change at any time if deemed necessary by Canoe Trail

Hire FAQ's

What's the difference between a kayak and a canoe?

If you're not sure of what each craft is, then read our guide here.

Are the trips guided?

There are no guides or instructors needed for hire. This is simply a hire where you paddle out and back to our launch point. We recommend our preferred route, however, you are free-range and able to explore the river.

What if it rains?

Unless you hear from us then your booking will run on the day agreed. Canoe Trail runs watersports, paddling, and adventurous activities throughout the year with people enjoying the river and our woodland campsite during the different seasons. On rare occasions (it only happens a couple of times a year) we may move or change your booking. This will be in freak weather conditions such as extremely high river flows in spate or during heavy storms with lightning. You can read our full FAQ here.

How does the booking process work?

We use a live booking system that will assign you the relevant craft and resources. Once you have confirmed your booking date, it is not then transferable and non-refundable in the same way you book an airline seat. Bookings are to be paid in full at the time of booking and are non-refundable. There will be no refunds for early returns, poor weather, or non-usage as per our general terms & conditions.