Canoeing and rowing on the Guadalquivir
For Seville, the Guadalquivir is much more than just a river – it's part of the city's identity. It's like the backbone of its history, but also a place to sail, stroll and play sports while enjoying spectacular views. Canoeing and rowing are great options to get to know the city from its main artery, while getting fit!
These are two fascinating sports that offer a full body workout. All of this with the spectacular River Guadalquivir as a backdrop. It would be impossible to find a better gym!
With calm water, a wide riverbed and wonderful views of the city, the river is an iconic place for lovers of water sports. For all these reasons, it comes as no surprise that the river has become a must for international rowing teams, as it is common to see canoeists and rowers of other nationalities in the Cartuja High Performance Rowing and Canoeing Specialised Centre which, in addition, is a place of permanent training for the Spanish teams of both sports. Since 1989, this complex has been located on the banks of the river basin, where it was created as part of the refurbishment carried out on the Isla de la Cartuja for the 1992 Universal Expo.
If you visit Seville any time of year and cross one of the bridges, it is very likely that you'll be able to spot canoeists. On many occasions, the river is bursting with colour: the shirts of the regional, national and international sportspeople who take part in the numerous events and competitions on the river, or the traditional Seville-Betis Regatta, among many others.
And if you have never been on a boat, but you do not want to miss this experience, you can also find a plan to suit your needs. The dock has more than 7 kilometres accessible to sports boats, so you can contact one of the specialised active tourism companies and enjoy a quick course. In record time you'll be able to kayak or canoe on the river and enjoy exercising outdoors, gliding on the water and discovering the rhythm and perseverance required to handle the oars.
Can you imagine the feeling of sailing along under one of the most symbolic bridges in Seville? Come and discover "Seville by kayak for the first time"! Many people take part in this sport for the first time every year. Will you be one of them?
