O Pioneiro do Mondego

O Pioneiro do Mondego is a family business based in Penacova, upstream of Coimbra, that takes people down the River Mondego by kayak and canoe. It was founded in 1988 by two Belgian teachers, Dirk and Kristien, and describes itself as the first canoeing company in Portugal. Descents run every day between Penacova and Coimbra, for individual paddlers, families, schools and large groups.

The standard trip covers 18 kilometres, from the Carvoeira weir, just below the river beach of Penacova, to Torres do Mondego. It follows the wooded Mondego valley past the hamlets of Ronqueira, Rebordosa, Louredo, Foz do Caneiro and Casal, with a light current that makes it manageable for most ages, and takes three to four hours of paddling. Small beaches along the banks are used for picnics and swims, and kites and kingfishers are often seen. A longer version of 25 kilometres continues to the centre of Coimbra: the last stretch is wider, has no current and often a headwind, so it suits fitter paddlers. Once a month there is a night descent under the full moon for people with some kayaking experience.

It is a low-impact way to see the valley: the boats are moved by paddle alone and everyone goes at their own pace, without having to stay in a convoy. Kayaks, paddles and life jackets are handed out in Penacova after a short briefing, and the outfitter provides the road transfer between the two ends of the route. Visitors without a car can arrange to be collected in the centre of Coimbra. Double and single kayaks are available, both closed and sit-on-top, and participants should be able to swim.