Aich to Pruggern: Put-ins, take-outs and highlights
After the put-in you are off straight away on a steady current, drifting easily under the picturesque bridge in Aich. Use the main current in the middle of the Enns, as the right-hand channel is usually not passable.
After this spot, move across to the right towards the middle of the river, where you will find first-class eddies for practising. Be sure to avoid the artificial eddies on the left, however, as driftwood and submerged wooden posts could give you some rather unpleasant surprises.
About 1.5 km downstream the Enns has a beautiful island in store for you, which splits the river into two channels. Ideally, paddle down the middle of the left channel, avoiding the eddies on the left-hand side. If you do opt for the right channel, you must first make sure that it is clear.
Around 150 m after the island, the next challenge awaits in the middle of the river – a tree that serves as a fish shelter. You can easily pass it on either side. Then you continue your river adventure playfully on a steady current towards Pruggern.
Depending on the water level, you will have to steer around a few smaller obstacles here and there. Watch out for branches overhanging the Enns too, and give them as wide a berth as possible. At the wooden bridge in the Au you have a choice – you can pass it on the left or the right. Afterwards, though, stay right of centre to avoid any unwelcome encounters with obstacles. Then move back to the middle and enjoy the lovely eddies on both banks.
Always stay a little cautious, though, so as not to come into contact with branches. Shortly before Pruggern, right in front of the riding stables, two large eddies welcome you with a beautiful sandy beach and an easy put-in and take-out. Alternatively, you can land on the right before the bridge. You will have to climb up an embankment, but you can reward yourself with a visit to the Gasthaus Bierfriedel and a hearty traditional snack.
Access
On the left bank of the Enns, directly after the island behind the swimming lake in Aich (kayak school – hire), or after the distinctive wooden bridge in Aich.
Exit
Shortly before Pruggern at the riding stables, in one of the two large eddies with a sandy beach. Alternatively, land on the right before the bridge in Pruggern by the Gasthaus Bierfriedel.
