The red rocks of the Oredezh River are the most beautiful place in the Leningrad Region for a SUP trip.

The Oredezh River is one of the most beautiful places in the Leningrad Region. Red sand cliffs, clear water, pine forest, and a SUP trip allow you to see the route from a completely different perspective.

The Leningrad Region is most often associated with the Gulf of Finland, Lake Ladoga, or the Karelian Isthmus. However, just outside of St. Petersburg lies a place that many consider a true natural gem of the region: the Oredezh River, with its famous red sandstone cliffs, pine forests, clear water, and surprisingly tranquil atmosphere.

This is where one of the most beautiful SUP routes in the Leningrad Region passes. The walk reveals views that are difficult to see from the shore: sheer red cliffs, pine trees reflected in the water, small sandy beaches, and quiet river bends. Many guests admit they never expected to see such unusual nature just a few dozen kilometers from St. Petersburg.

A SUP trip along the Oredezh River isn’t just for those already confident on a board. In fact, most participants are introduced to SUP for the first time here. The calm current, wide sections of the river, and detailed instructions allow even complete beginners to feel confident within minutes.

Why the Oredezh River?

The route’s main feature is its unique red sandstone cliffs. These cliffs took thousands of years to form and are now considered one of the most recognizable natural landmarks in the Leningrad Region.

During the walk you can see:

• the famous red rocks;
• tall pine forests;
• sandy beaches;
• clear water;
• picturesque bends of the river;
• places that cannot be reached by car.

This is why most of the photographs from Oredezh look so unusual. Many initially think the photos were taken somewhere in Karelia or even abroad, although the route is very close to St. Petersburg.

Besides the beautiful views, the river boasts a tranquil atmosphere. There’s virtually no city noise, no boat traffic, and no strong waves. This makes the walk less of a workout and more of a journey through nature.

Why is SUP the best way to see Oredezh?

It’s practically impossible to see even half of the most beautiful places on foot. Most viewpoints are hidden behind forests or located far from roads.

On a SUP board you have a completely different perspective.

While sailing, you can leisurely admire the red cliffs from below, swim to the sandy shores, stop for photos, and enjoy the complete silence.

It is the water that allows us to see all the beauty of Oredezh as nature intended it.

Furthermore, the route is laid back. There’s no need to constantly walk or navigate difficult terrain. Participants spend most of the time simply drifting along, admiring the surrounding scenery.

For many, this becomes a real relaxation after the hustle and bustle of the city.

What’s a SUP trip like on the Oredezh River?

Many people think that SUP boarding requires a lot of physical fitness or experience. In reality, it’s one of the most accessible forms of active recreation. That’s why the Oredezh River route is suitable for virtually everyone — from students and families with children to those who’ve never boarded before.

Before heading out on the water, a detailed briefing is provided. The instructor explains how to properly hold the paddle, stand on the board, maintain balance, and control the SUP. Within a few minutes, most participants feel confident on the water.

All necessary equipment is provided on site. No need to buy your own SUP, life jacket, or other gear — it’s all included in the program.

After the briefing, the walk itself begins.

The first few minutes allow the group to get used to the board and gain confidence. Then, the group leisurely travels downstream, discovering one of the most beautiful natural trails in the Leningrad Region.

Red rocks that are found nowhere else near St. Petersburg

The main attraction of the route is the famous red sand cliffs.

These towering cliffs took thousands of years to form. In the sunlight, the sandstone takes on a rich red hue, creating the impression of being in a veritable canyon.

From the water they look especially impressive.

It is for these views that many people come to Oredezh again and again.

The route runs along the most beautiful sections of the river, so new panoramas open up almost every few minutes.

Somewhere there is a tall pine forest reflected in perfectly calm water.

Somewhere there are small sandy beaches.

And then the famous red rocks that have become the symbol of Oredezh appear again.

Picnic right along the route

One of the features of the walk is a stop on the shore.

During the route, the group makes a stop in a picturesque place among the pine trees.

Here you can relax a little, take a swim in warm weather, chat with friends and enjoy nature without rushing.

A picnic is organized for participants, which is already included in the cost of the program.

It is this stop that makes the walk not just a sporting activity, but a full-fledged journey lasting several hours.

Many people note that the moment of relaxation on the shore becomes one of the most memorable of the entire day.

Photos and videos remain as a memory

During the walk, the instructor takes photos and videos of the participants.

You don’t have to worry about how to manage the app and try to take beautiful photos on your phone at the same time.

All the most striking moments of the route are filmed professionally.

After the walk, participants receive photos and videos as souvenirs, allowing them to fully focus on their vacation and enjoy the surrounding nature.

This is why photographs from Oredezh appear so frequently on social media — the red cliffs, clear water, and pine forest create truly extraordinary shots.

Safety is the top priority when walking.

When people choose to SUP for the first time, one of the most common questions concerns safety. This is completely normal, especially if they have no previous experience.

That’s why every trip begins not with a walk on the water, but with a detailed briefing. The instructor demonstrates how to properly stand on the board, use the paddle, turn, stop, and navigate the route safely. After such an explanation, even participants who are new to SUP boards quickly gain confidence.

Each guest is provided with a certified life jacket, and all equipment is regularly checked before going out on the water.

Particular attention is paid to the instructors themselves. The route is led by experienced specialists who not only know the Oredezh River well but also hold the necessary certifications and are lifeguards. This means there’s always someone nearby ready to help in any situation.

In practice, serious incidents along the route are virtually nonexistent. The calm current, well-organized tour, and constant supervision make the trip comfortable even for those who have never tried water sports before.

Transfer is already included in the price

Another feature of the route is that there is no need to return on foot to the starting point.

After completing the walk, participants are transported back to the start line via an organized shuttle. This allows them to leave their cars in one place and avoid worrying about logistics.

This format is especially convenient for guests arriving from St. Petersburg or other cities in the Leningrad region.

Instead of looking for a taxi or taking a long walk, simply complete the route calmly and use the included transfer.

Who is this walk suitable for?

The route along the Oredezh River is considered one of the most versatile.

It will fit perfectly:

• for those who want to try SUP boarding for the first time;
• couples looking for an unusual date in nature;
• families;
• small groups of friends;
• tourists who came to St. Petersburg;
• for lovers of beautiful photographs;
• for everyone who wants to spend a day away from the city noise.

No special physical fitness is required to participate. Comfortable clothing appropriate to the weather and a desire to try something new are all you need.

This is why most participants come without any experience, but by the end of the trip they are confident in their board control and truly enjoying the trip.

Where to sign up for a walk

If you’d like to see the famous red cliffs of the Oredezh River from the water, enjoy the natural beauty of the Leningrad Region, and try one of the region’s most beautiful SUP routes, you can find the schedule of upcoming trips, participate, and sign up on the "SUP Trip on the Oredezh River" page.

Frequently asked questions about SUPing on the Oredezh River

Is it difficult to learn to ride a SUP?

No. Most participants experience SUP for the first time during this trip. After a thorough briefing, almost everyone is confidently handling the board within 10-15 minutes. The route is specifically designed for beginners and requires no experience.

What to take with you?

All you need is comfortable clothes for the weather, a swimsuit or swimming trunks in warm weather, a towel, a hat and a good mood.

If you plan to go into the water, it is better to wear rubber slippers, Crocs, or other shoes that you don’t mind getting wet.

All basic equipment, life jackets and SUP boards are provided by the organizers.

Is it possible to come alone?

Certainly.

People regularly sign up for the walks one by one. Within minutes of starting the route, everyone is getting to know each other and connecting, so many find new friends and like-minded people here.

Is the route suitable for a date?

Yes, and this is one of the most popular reasons to choose Oredezh.

A shared journey along a calm river, beautiful views, a stop for a picnic, photos, and the absence of the hustle and bustle of the city create a completely different atmosphere compared to a regular walk or a trip to a restaurant.

Many couples come here to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or just spend a beautiful summer day together.

Why Oredezh?

The Leningrad region has many beautiful rivers and lakes, but the Oredezh is considered one of the most picturesque routes for SUP boarding.

There are several reasons:

• famous red sand cliffs;
• clean water;
• pine forests;
• calm current;
• the opportunity to see places inaccessible from the shore;
• Convenient location relative to St. Petersburg.

It is the combination of nature, comfort and a well-organised route that makes this walk one of the most popular in the region.

If you’re looking to spend a day in nature, explore the unique landscapes of the Leningrad Region, and try a new form of recreation, a SUP trip along the Oredezh River is a great choice.

This route combines everything that makes a truly memorable vacation: a tranquil atmosphere, beautiful views, the famous red rocks, clear water, a walk accompanied by experienced instructors, a picnic on the shore, photos and videos to remember, and a transfer, which is already included in the price.

The main advantage of this route is that it’s suitable for virtually anyone. Whether you’ve ever paddled a SUP board or are just planning to give it a try, detailed instructions and the guidance of experienced instructors will ensure a calm, comfortable, and safe journey.

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful places in the Leningrad Region for active recreation, be sure to check out the SUP trip along the Oredezh River. The current schedule, participation fees, and detailed route description are available on the "SUP Trip along the Oredezh River" page.