Which canyon is right for me? A comparison of five canyoning tours

Our tour program features five gorges, each with its own unique character: the Starzlachklamm in the Allgäu, the Schwarzwasserbach in the Kleinwalsertal, the Strindenbach in the Tannheimer Valley, the Kobelache in Vorarlberg, and the Stuibenfälle on Lake Plansee in the Lech Valley. Our program thus covers the entire spectrum, from family-friendly adventures to technically challenging expert tours. Which canyon is right for you depends on your experience, fitness level, and the type of experience you’re looking for. In this comparison, we provide an honest assessment of each canyon, explain our level system—ranging from “family” to “basic” to “expert”—and offer clear recommendations for beginners, families, athletic groups, and experienced canyoners.

The tour begins at the Starzlach Gorge near Sonthofen, which was carved out by the Starzlach River at the foot of the 1,740-meter-high Grünten; As a designated geotope, it offers climbing sections, optional jumps, rappelling spots at the waterfall, and an 18-meter-long natural slide to finish off the route. The Schwarzwasserbach in the Kleinwalsertal significantly increases the use of ropes and is aimed at athletic beginners as well as experienced climbers looking for more rappelling sections. Variety in movement styles and terrain characterizes the Strindenbach in the Tannheimer Valley, which requires some experience or good physical conditioning. As the most technically demanding tour in our program, the Kobelache in Vorarlberg requires experience, endurance, and rope skills; it is longer and wilder than all other tours. The Stuibenfälle at Plansee near Reutte combine waterfall sections with alpine panoramic views in the Lech Valley, appealing to guests who want to focus on the natural scenery and the waterfall experience. Each of these five gorges has its own rhythm of climbing sections, swimming spots, and rope sections. Detailed information on highlights, alternative routes, and booking for the beginner’s gorge is available on our page about canyoning in the Starzlachklamm.

To make your choice easier, we use a clear level system. Families with children ages 6 and up who can already swim start at the “Family” level, which is specifically tailored to children’s needs. Beginners and cautious guests choose the “Basic” level, where all techniques are introduced at a leisurely pace before the tour; jumps and slides are always optional. Advanced participants will find tours in the “Pro” and “Expert” levels—such as the Schwarzwasserbach, the Strindenbach, or the Kobelache—that place greater demands on fitness and technique. Regardless of the level, we maintain the same standards: certified guides, a maximum guide-to-participant ratio of 1:7, Edelrid equipment included in the tour price, and a safety concept compliant with ISO 21101. If you’re unsure, we’ll advise you over the phone and realistically assess your experience, because the right tour contributes more to the experience than an overly ambitious level that ends up being too much and takes the fun out of it. If you’re looking for complete flexibility, book a private canyoning guide and tailor the pace and gorge to your own preferences.