Märkische Umfahrt – Grand Canoeing Round Tour on Rivers Spree and Dahme

Long Canoe Tour on the Spree and Dahme Rivers

178 km

7–11 days

Start and end: Beeskow

The Märkische Umfahrt – Grand Canoeing Round Tour on Rivers Spree and Dahme follows the old and side channels of the Spree and the Dahme rivers and passes through the Naturpark Dahme-Heideseen and the Biosphärenreservat Spreewald, two of Brandenburg’s most biodiverse protected areas.

As you glide across the water in a canoe, the view opens up to dense forests and open meadows. On the unspoiled stretches, with a little luck, you might spot kingfishers, while herons search for prey along the shore. In between, small villages and historic town centers invite you to take a break and go for a stroll.

The canoe trip combines nature experiences with cultural discoveries and can be completed in stages. This makes it possible to take both day trips and multi-day tours.

Recommendations

TIPS FOR GOING ASHORE

Beeskow: Castle, historic old town
Fürstenwalde/Spree: Castle, Cathedral
Erkner: Gerhart Hauptmann Museum, Local History Museum
Königs Wusterhausen: Castle
Prieros: Naturpark Dahme-Heideseen Visitor Center
Märkisch-Buchholz: Kaskadenwehranlage (gravity dam)

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CANOE ROUTE

Areas/Regions: Spree, Dahme, Dahme Lakes, Scharmützelsee, Müggelspree / Oder-Spree Lake District, Dahme Lake District
Waterway Profile: The tour winds through a network of branching river channels with gentle currents, while the Dahme River and its lakes offer expansive bodies of water. In the spring, the current on the Spree can be stronger.
Number of locks: There are 12 locks along the route.
The route can be traveled in stages and is suitable for multi-day tours or day trips.

Multi-day canoe trip southeast of Berlin

The round-trip canoe tour begins and ends in the small town of Beeskow, on the Spree River. The castle complex, a designated historic landmark, is an impressive symbol of the region’s eventful history. From here, you’ll follow the branching waterways of the Spree and Dahme rivers, passing old mills; tranquil, expansive stretches of riverbank alternate with dense forests. Small towns and historic town centers invite you to take a break on shore.

Each stage offers new sights: In Fürstenwalde, the impressive cathedral towers over the city, while in Märkisch-Buchholz, the Kaskadenwehranlage (gravity dam) sets the water in motion. If you keep your eyes peeled, you can spot rare birds or beavers in the Naturpark Dahme-Heideseen. If you’d like to extend the tour, you can also turn toward Berlin in your kayak and paddle all the way to the capital—a unique blend of nature and urban adventure.

How about a multi-day canoe trip through Brandenburg’s waterways? The Märkische Umfahrt - Grand Canoeing Round Tour on Rivers Spree and Dahme combines nature, culture, and adventure in a unique loop tour.

Canoe

Canoeing in Deutschlands Seenland

Whether you want to enjoy the tranquility of nature or take on athletic challenges—canoeing in Germany’s largest interconnected waterway system combines both. You’ll glide silently across sparkling lakes and rivers, discover hidden coves, and observe the local flora and fauna.

Swimming

Swimming and Water Fun at Lakes

Clear water, fine sandy beaches, and lush green shores—swimming in Deutschlands Seenland is pure relaxation. Whether you want to take a dip in the cool water, splash around with your family, or simply soak up the sun, you’ll find your swimming paradise here, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city.