Boat Trips On Drava River

The Drava is one of the great rivers of Central Europe. It rises in the Alps of South Tyrol, flows east through Austria into Slovenia, crosses the north of the country past Maribor and Ptuj, and carries on through Croatia to join the Danube. In Štajerska it runs through a broad valley between the wooded slopes of Pohorje to the south and the vine-covered hills of Slovenske gorice to the north, and for centuries it has been a working river, a route for timber rafts and trade and a source of power. Today it is also a place of recreation, and a trip on the water gives a view of the landscape that is impossible to get from the road.

The character of the river has changed over time. In the twentieth century, a chain of hydroelectric dams was built along the Slovenian Drava, and the reservoirs behind them created long, calm stretches of water that suit boats of all kinds. These reservoirs are home to waterbirds and fish, and their quiet surfaces are used by rowers, paddlers and sailors, while the wooded banks give a sense of calm close to towns. Between the dams, shorter free-flowing sections remain, and in some of them the old traditions have been revived. In Maribor, the old riverside quarter of Lent grew up around the timber trade, and boatmen and rafters once brought logs down the Drava. A modern version of the timber raft trip, in which visitors travel on a traditional raft, is offered as a tourist experience, and it is a good way to feel the history of the river. Other boat options include small excursion boats, rowing boats and canoes.

Details of operators, routes, times and prices change from year to year, and trips are generally seasonal, running from spring to early autumn, so check with the tourist information office or a local operator before planning. Some trips need booking in advance, and many depend on weather and water level. Life jackets are normally provided and should be worn, and children should be supervised. The river is cool even in summer, and the bank can be steep, so wear sensible shoes and bring a layer.

The Drava is also worth exploring from the bank. A cycle route follows the river for much of its length, quiet paths run along the water, and riverside towns such as Maribor, Ptuj and Dravograd are good places to stop. Wildlife is part of the pleasure, with herons, kingfishers, cormorants and, in winter, large flocks of ducks and other waterbirds. Early morning and evening are the best times for birds and light.

A day on the river combines well with the region's food and wine, since the shores are lined with vineyards and inns. Authentic Štajerska Cuisine, the Jeruzalem Wine Route, the Wine Routes of Jeruzalem, the Pohorje Mountains, Ski Schools In Štajerska, Ice Skating In Štajerska and the Kurentovanje carnival complete the picture of the region.

It suits families, couples and nature lovers. Although the river is large, the Drava’s quiet corners are easy to reach. Visitors who take a boat will find the Drava River at its most gentle.