Double kayak through the Sil canyon from Os Chancís

What it is

One hour of kayaking on your own in the Sil canyon, in the Ribeira Sacra, from the Os Chancís jetty, on the Sober (Lugo) bank. The river is dammed and has no current, so no experience is needed: you paddle between rock walls and terraced vineyard slopes rising up to 600 metres above the water. It is the quietest and closest way to see the canyon, at water level and at your own pace, without the noise of a boat.

The kayaks are hired out by SilTrip, the same company that runs the catamaran leaving from this jetty.

What is included and how much it costs

• Price: €20 per double kayak and hour, VAT included.
• Craft: self-righting, self-bailing double kayak. They have 16.
• Included: life jacket, a waterproof bag for keys, phone and wallet, and basic paddling instructions before setting off.
• Minimum age: 6; under-age visitors must be accompanied by an adult.

It is not a guided excursion: they give you the kayak and some instructions and you paddle freely around the reservoir for the hour.

Season and hours

In 2026, hire ran until 30 September, Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 13:30 and from 15:30 to 18:30. It is closed on Mondays. In November there is no hire; the 2027 season has not been published yet. Check the SilTrip website in spring.

How to book

On the SilTrip website or by phone, on 621 249 089 or 982 460 714. To book they ask for the number of kayaks, full name, ID number, email and a card for the charge. If you go without a booking, they only accept cash at the jetty. In August and on summer weekends, book: there are 16 kayaks for the whole day.

Getting there and parking

From Ourense it is about 45 minutes by car to Sober. From Sober, follow the road signposted "Embarcadero de Os Chancís", the same one as for the municipal swimming pools: about 5 km with no turn-offs. Park in the bays before the small waterfall and walk down to the jetty by six flights of steps. Arrive at least ten minutes before your time.

Accessibility and facilities

The access by steps is not adapted for people with reduced mobility. At the jetty there are no changing rooms or toilet: go with your swimming costume already on and use the toilet before going down.

What to bring

Swimming costume on, clothes that can get wet, shoes that stay on your feet, a cap, sun cream and water. A long-sleeved T-shirt protects you from the sun on the water, which reflects a lot. Leave in the car whatever does not fit in the waterproof bag.

With children

From age 6 and with an adult. Because the water is still and the kayaks are self-righting, it is an easy activity for families. An hour is enough for children; if it feels too short, you can combine it with the catamaran.

When to go

Best first thing in the morning or in the afternoon, when the sun does not fall full on the canyon and the water is calm. In midsummer, the bottom of the canyon builds up heat at midday. In a storm, do not go out on the water.

Combine the day

From the other bank, the Ourense one, the catamaran from Santo Estevo departs. And in Castro Caldelas, in the same Ribeira Sacra, you can end the day with a tasting at the Ponte da Boga winery. Back in Ourense, a dip in the Outariz hot springs relaxes your shoulders.