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Kayak trip · Dinant, Namur
Lesse River Descent (kayaking)
Kayak descent along the Lesse river to Anseremme, where it flows into the Meuse. Routes are 9, 12 or 21 kilometres, with shuttle buses to the starting point and a season from April to October.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lesse River Descent (kayaking)
The Lesse is a tributary of the Meuse that runs through a narrow valley of forests and rock cliffs before reaching Anseremme, south of Dinant. Kayaking this stretch is one of Wallonia's best-known outdoor activities and attracts families and groups of friends in summer.
The setup is simple. You pick up your ticket at the base in Anseremme, where you leave your car. A shuttle bus takes participants to the starting point, and the descent finishes back in Anseremme. Life jackets are compulsory and provided.
There are three routes. From Gendron to Anseremme is 12 kilometres, about two and a half hours, with two small weirs to negotiate. From Houyet to Gendron is 9 kilometres, about two hours, without weirs. From Houyet to Anseremme is 21 kilometres, about five hours, for those who want to spend the day on the river.
In the final stretch the river flows beneath the Château de Walzin, a privately owned castle atop a cliff that can only be seen from the outside. Children aged five and above may participate when accompanied.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to five hours on the river, depending on the route, plus the bus transfer to the start.
Best time
The season runs from April to the end of October, depending on water levels. The 21-kilometre route ends in early October. July and August are the busiest months; on weekdays the river is less crowded.
How to get there
The base is in Anseremme, a district of Dinant, about three kilometres south of the centre. If you drive you can park at the base. Without a car, you can take a taxi from Dinant station or the train to Anseremme station; check timetables.
Tip
Bring clothes that can get wet, a dry change of clothes and a dry bag for your phone. In heavy rain the river may be closed to navigation. Book in advance for summer weekends.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lesse River Descent (kayaking)
Which kayak route should you choose on the Lesse?
The most popular is Gendron–Anseremme, 12 kilometres and about two and a half hours. Those wanting something quieter do Houyet–Gendron, 9 kilometres and without dams.
Do you need to know how to swim?
The company provides the life jacket, which cannot be omitted. The river is calm for most of the route, but being able to swim gives extra security. Confirm the rules with the company.
Can children do the descent?
Yes, from age five, accompanied by adults.