Canoe trip in the Sauer valley

Enjoy the wonders of nature with a canoe trip in the Sauer valley

We ask that you behave considerately both inside and outside the canoe to help to protect the natural environment and habitat of the Mosel and Sauer.

A large section of the Sauer between Born and Wasserbillig has quite justifiably been declared part of Natura 2000. Its banks are edged with tall herbaceous vegetation which constitutes an important part of the typical habitat found in wetlands. Ground-covering populations which offer a different blaze of colour all year round are found particularly on the islands. Due to their structure they create a perfect habitat for the feeding and propagation of water organisms.

Colourful butterflies associated with damp areas such as the large copper (1) and dragonflies (2) can be seen on the riverbanks.

Breeding areas and sources of food for aquatic birds like dippers and kingfishers are often found where lowland forest meadows join the Sauer. Little (3) and great crested grebe (4) tend to build their nests on plants in shallow water at the water’s edge.

Grey heron (6) can be seen in the trees on the riverbank from where they can spy on their prey. They can also occasionally be spotted in the low meadows in search of food.

Bullhead spawning pits can be found on the gritty subsoil in fast-flowing sections of the river. Insect larvae on which fish feed are also to be found in the substrate. The brook lamprey buries itself in the river bottom with only its mouth emerging to filter food out of the water.