von Tessa Mellinger
August 02, 2019
Summer
Adventure Tour: Rafting on the Isar River
A Karwendel adventure of a special kind? Of course, our intern Florian wouldn't say no to that! He experienced the Isar from a new, proverbial thrilling side: On foot we went to the source of the Isar. And from there out on the water again – in a kayak. His stories made us a little envious:
Back to the source: Where the Isar rises
Along the Isar, the hike leads to the source of the Isar, the place where Bavaria's fourth largest river rises. From there, the clear, turquoise spring water makes its way from the Karwendel Mountains through Munich to the mouth of the river in the Danube. Today we experience both sides of the river: its tame, gentle side at its source, hidden in the picturesque forests of the Karwendel. And its wild, untamed side full of rapids and gushing waters.
Walk in ...
But first it's about getting to the entry point deep in the Hinterautal. From Scharnitz, you are quickly at the entrance to the valley. This can be easily recognized by the roar of the Isar River. This is exactly what we will follow for a good 10 kilometers to the well-known Steinmandl on the banks of the Isar. By the way, the path is also perfect for an e-bike tour.
Before we switch to the adventurous means of transportation, the Canadier (open kayaks for 2), we first head to the source of the Isar, cool off a bit and enjoy the fresh water directly from the source. Although I come from the region, I am here for the first time and at the sight of the fabulous surroundings ask myself, why actually. But now I am sure that it was not the last time.
... out again by the water.
In the meantime, the outdoor company Faszinatour brings the Canadier rafts to the entry point and prepares everything for the (literally) thrilling part of the tour. After a short refreshment, there is a detailed briefing with safety instructions. My anticipation rises as well as the excitement.
Tour participants at the briefing
Then it's off into the waves of the Isar! In teams of 2, accompanied by four guides, we head downstream. Through rapids, curvy sections as well as calmer, more relaxed places it goes for us. While we marvel at the beautiful, unique nature of the Karwendel and the so turquoise water, we try not to go swimming. We prefer to save this part for the end of the tour. For a short moment it no longer feels like we are in the Alps, but in the untouched nature of New Zealand. There is hardly any other place where you can experience these impressions as intensively as in a two-seater canoe.
A wild journey through the Karwendel later, we arrive back in Scharnitz. With a broad grin on our faces, we go ashore. This experience will remain in my memory for a long time.
Further links:
To the hike: From Scharnitz to the source of the Isar river
Karwendel Nature Park
Isarursprung
Tour suggestion: with the e-bike to the Isarursprung
Refreshment stops: Kastenalm, Scharnitzer Alm
Fascinatour Outdoor Company
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