Think of the Netherlands and amongst the first things to come to mind will be canals (or grachten as they are known). The country is probably the most affected by human kind over time, with so much of its landmass reclaimed from the sea and then built upon. The entire Netherlands is really a technological marvel. From the windmills, to the canals, they really forged a deep connection to their land by harnessing nature. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in Amsterdam. 

One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, it entices you in with gorgeous view points around every corner. Tiny bridges span the endless canals, a never ending stream of sit up and beg bicycles passing over them, houseboats moored up and elegant tour boats putter along. It is a mesmerizing place to be, to wander the streets and soak up the atmosphere.

For a paddleboarder it really is a bucket list destination, and it is very much attainable for all ability levels. There are more than 100 km of canals, 90 islands and 1500 bridges spanning them. Access is easy and although the water quality is not the greatest, they are usually placid and calm. 

The inner ring of Amsterdam (a UNESCO world heritage area) is the busiest and most famous area, so the waterways will be a lot more congested with tour boats, but even here it is doable to paddle as they tend to not create the biggest wakes and water turbulence. Further out from the centre, the views are equally as spectacular and water traffic becomes distinctly quieter. You will still get to peek into house boats, take in the atmosphere and truly feel part of the city, but not have to have eyes in the back of your head. Paddle on the right hand side of the canals, to let other craft pass.

There are several operators who offer both tours as well as hires, based all around the city. I used Canal SUP, which is based in the western edge of the city centre. They have a number of routes they can recommend depending on your skill level and how long you would like to be on the water. 

Outside the canal network there are other opportunities to SUP in and around Amsterdam too. In Ijburg, you will find Amsterdams inland beach, a really popular place to spend a summer's day. Here you can Windsurf, Wing foil and hire SUPs on a bigger body of water to explore the mix of city scape and distant windmills. The coastline of the Netherlands is easily accessible with Ijmuiden and Zandfoort even getting surf when the conditions line up. Again, easy to rent a SUP or surfboard and head out.

Amsterdam is an amazing, immersive place to paddle and explore. Truly a bucket list paddle ticked off the list.