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Susåen River - Nature and Canoe Experiences in South Zealand

Experience the Susåen River in South Zealand, where canoeing, kayaking, rich wildlife and traces of history come together in one of Zealand’s most beautiful river landscapes.

The Susåen River is the most water-rich river system on Zealand and one of those nature experiences that stays with you. The river runs from south of Rønnede, past Herlufsholm School, through Næstved and on into Karrebæk Fjord. Along the way, it passes through a landscape shaped more than 15,000 years ago. Here, water, reeds, woodland edges and open stretches set the scene. The Susåen River is a great choice for anyone who wants to experience South Zealand from its calm, scenic and historic side.

What can you experience at the Susåen River?

At the Susåen River, nature, cultural history and experiences on the water come together. For centuries, the river was an important transport route for both people and goods, and it played a major role in everyday life across the area. Long before roads and railways became the main connections, the Susåen linked landscapes, towns and people.

Today, it is above all the natural setting that draws visitors in. Along the river, you will find green banks, quiet waters and rich flora and fauna. If you pay attention along the way, you may spot fish in the water, birds along the banks and the many small signs of life in and around the river. That sense of being close to nature is what makes the Susåen River such a special place to explore.

Where can you go canoeing or kayaking on the Susåen River?

A canoe or kayak trip on the Susåen River is a wonderful way to experience the landscape. From the water, the river valley opens up from a completely different angle. The pace is calm, and that is part of the charm. Nature, birdlife and historic surroundings become a natural part of the journey.

To protect plant and animal life, sailing on the Susåen is restricted. That actually makes the experience even better. There is more peace on the water, fewer disturbances and more room to experience the river on nature’s own terms. When you rent an approved canoe, you can enjoy the Susåen River in a way that respects the area while also giving you a special experience on one of South Zealand’s most distinctive waterways.

What is Slusehuset by the Susåen River?

Slusehuset is a historic house by the Susåen River in the green part of Næstved, and it is closely connected to life along the river. It tells the story of a time when the waterway had a practical and important function, and when the sluice helped regulate water levels and traffic on the river. Today, Slusehuset is a natural starting point for anyone who wants to experience the Susåen from the water.

You can rent canoes here and set out directly onto one of the most beautiful stretches near the town. That makes Slusehuset much more than a place by the river. It combines history, atmosphere and direct access to experiences on the water. A trip here can easily be combined with other nearby experiences, such as a walk in Næstved or a visit to Herlufsholm, both of which are closely linked to the course of the river.

Is the Susåen River suitable for families with children?

Yes, the Susåen River is well suited to families, couples and friends who want to experience nature at a gentle pace. For children, it is exciting to be close to the water and look out for birds, fish and life along the banks. For adults, it is a place where the pace slows down naturally.

The Susåen River is especially well suited to families, couples and groups of friends who want to combine nature, movement and small glimpses of local history along the way.

Three interesting facts about the Susåen River

  • The Susåen is the most water-rich river system on Zealand.

  • The river is around 15,000 years old and flows through a landscape shaped after the Ice Age.

  • For centuries, the Susåen was an important transport route for people and goods in South Zealand.