- 4:00 h
- 11.67 km
- 1 m
- 434 m
- 434 m
- 0 m
- Start: Nidwalden water sports center (south side of the boat harbor)
- Destination: In front of the Weggis ship station at the small boat landing with jetty
Travel along the harbor mole (watch out for boats entering and leaving). Afterwards, a swimming zone (no-paddling zone) follows. Therefore, paddle outside the yellow buoys.
1.0 km:
Continue paddling along the shore. Be cautious of passenger ships at the Ennetbürgen ship station.
from 3.0 km:
There are various rest stops (gravel beaches) in the forest, some with fire pits but without toilets.
4.5 km:
At the end of the Bürgenstock (Nas) there is a gravel beach with a ship mooring, grilling facilities, and a shelter with table and bench.
The subsequent lake crossing should only be attempted under good weather conditions, meaning little wind and waves. Observe ship traffic.
5.0 km:
After the lake crossing, the journey continues towards Vitznau.
6.5 km:
At the entrance to Vitznau is a public bathing place with a gravel beach and toilet facilities. An ideal spot for a short break. However, the community warns of rockfall hazards.
7.0 km:
Continue paddling along the shore. Beware of passenger ships at the Vitznau ship station.
Immediately after the ship station, there is another landing and resting opportunity. There is also a toilet facility at the ship station.
8.5 km / 10.0 km:
Between Vitznau and Weggis, there are two good rest options (public bathing places with toilets): at Brougier Park and at Lützelau.
11.5 km:
The exit is located in front of the ship station at the small boat landing with a jetty.
Good to know
Best to visit
Directions
Tour information
Stop at an Inn
Equipment
For canoe routes on the lake, sea kayaks or open canoes are recommended. Sea kayaks are faster and sportier, while open canoes offer a more leisurely experience. Both types of boats allow you to carry luggage. Essential for canoe tours on the lake are life jackets and weather-appropriate clothing. In particular, pay attention to sufficient cold protection (e.g., fleece, neoprene, waterproof jacket). Spare clothes are also recommended as they can be very useful in case of capsizing. A waterproof-packed mobile phone and a small first aid kit should also be taken on every tour.
- Kanuwelt Buochs at the Nidwalden water sports center
Directions & Parking facilities
Additional information
Canoe Rental
Author
Reto Wyss (Kanuwelt Buochs)
Organization
Region Luzern-Vierwaldstättersee
Safety guidelines
Weather
The weather development should be monitored throughout the entire route. The rain radar from MeteoSchweiz is particularly helpful. In case of uncertain weather conditions, it is better to paddle a shorter route with various exit points. Dress according to the weather (sun, rain, and cold protection).
Water, Wind, and Waves
Lake Lucerne is, like any other lake, subject to constantly changing conditions. For canoe routes, water temperature, wind, and waves are crucial. Tours should only be undertaken by experienced canoeists when the water is cold (below 15° Celsius). In strong winds and/or waves, stay close to the shore or exit the water as needed and wait for winds and waves to subside at the shore. Storm warnings come in two levels: the strong wind warning (40 flashes per minute) signals gusts up to 60 km/h, and the storm warning (90 flashes per minute) signals gusts over 60 km/h.
Safety
Besides natural hazards like wind and waves, other water users must be observed on the lake. Passenger ships and professional fishers, as well as sailboats and swimmers, always have the right of way over canoeists. Keep distance from all other (motor)boats and establish eye contact when crossing paths.
Nearby
