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Learn how to river kayak in Voss, the paddling paradise

Woman paddling a kayak in nice weather.

Learn how to river kayak in Voss, the paddling paradise

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Voss is a well-known paddling paradise that attracts paddlers from all over the world. Primarily famous for its river paddling, Voss is also an excellent destination for sea kayaking enthusiasts thanks to its beautiful lakes and proximity to the fjords.

It's no wonder that river paddlers from Norway and abroad choose Voss as their destination. The many rivers in the area offer varied paddling experiences, from calm waters to rapid currents and intense waterfalls.

One of the pioneers of river kayaking in Voss is Mads Rio from Vått & Vilt. He is the first to have paddled the Brandset River, the Myrkdal River, and several other classic rivers that today attract the world's most extreme kayakers.

The instructor demonstrates the correct paddling technique for a group on a kayak course.
© Chris Baldry

Paddling is just as much about the unique overall experience as it is about learning the proper technique.


He's eager to share his love for paddling with others and is passionate about offering the most memorable experience on the water. Since the mid-90s, this dedicated Voss paddler has been running various kayak courses – everything from beginner river sessions to exhilarating sea kayaking adventures in Voss and Nærøyfjord.

"Paddling is just as much about the unique total experience as it is about learning the proper technique," the experienced paddler states.

A group on a kayak trip takes a rest around the fire on the river bank.
© Chris Baldry

Kayaking course for beginners/ wet card course

If you're staying at Myrkdalen Hotel, the Myrkdalselva River is nearby. The upper part is wide, meandering through the wild mountain landscape. The lower part offers a steeper challenge, with giant slides and drops before flowing into the Myrkdalsvatnet Lake.

Many groups of friends join the two-day introductory kayaking course, which is a fantastic way to enjoy the water and have an exciting weekend of fun, laughs, and paddling challenges.

On the Myrkdalselva river, you'll be under the guidance of Mads, taking you from calm waters and gentle currents to more adventurous rapids.

"The course is perfect for anyone over 16 keen on having a great time. Friend groups often take the course and have an absolute blast for two days," says Mads, enthusiastic.

Find a suitable date:

Canoe paddling course

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Kayakers in sea kayaks on the water.
© Chris Baldry

Sea kayak family paddling on Myrkdalsvatnet

If you're looking for an experience the whole family can enjoy together, family paddling in stable and easy-to-paddle sea kayaks is perfect. Mads says that kayaking for families is more focused on play and fun in the water. No prior knowledge is necessary, and the arrangement can be adapted to suit needs and wishes.

Seapaddle course - send inquiry

A group on a kayaking course gets an introduction to kayaking, first on land.
© Chris Baldry

Sea kayaking as a team building activity

For businesses looking to combine active experiences with professional content during their conference stays at Myrkdalen Hotel, sea kayaking is one of the most popular team-building options.

No prior kayaking experience is required, and we can fully tailor the trip to your group's preferences. For instance, if you'd like to immerse yourselves in the breathtaking fjord scenery, we can bring the sea kayaks to Nærøyfjord, just 35 minutes from Myrkdalen.

– The nature experiences from a kayak are something you will not soon forget, says Mads convincingly and encourages everyone who hasn't tried it to get a taste of what kayaking has to offer.

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