Paddling in Västerbotten

Västerbotten stretches from the Bothnian Bay coast and the great river mouths in towards the forest country – a landscape where slow-moving rivers, inland lakes and an island-rich coast give paddling for every level.

At the coast lie Umeå and Skellefteå, both with paddling at the door. In Umeå you rent a kayak at Umekajak and paddle down Umeälven or out in the archipelago, and north of the city Sävarån winds down towards Skeppsvik where Sävar Kanotuthyrning arranges tours. At Skellefteälven there is self-service kayak hire at Skellefteå Kayaking, and Bureå Camping rents kayak and SUP at Bureälven.

Inland the forest country takes over with quiet lakes and undeveloped river stretches – at Kalvträsk you paddle clear-water lakes in the middle of wilderness. The westernmost, mountain-close parts of the county belong to the landscape Lappland.

Season

The best paddling season is June–August. The rivers’ water level varies with snowmelt; the coast and the open lakes need a weather check, and the water is cold even in summer.

FAQ

Where can you rent a kayak in Västerbotten?

Among others at Umekajak (Umeå), Sävar Kanotuthyrning (Sävarån), Skellefteå Kayaking (self-service) and Bureå Camping. See all places on the map.

Can you paddle on Umeälven?

Yes – a popular trip is to paddle down Umeälven starting on Ön in Umeå and finishing in Holmsund or Stöcke. Check flow and wind, and always wear a life jacket.