Pedaling and Paddling: A Family Adventure in Kanchanaburi
When I stumbled upon the opportunity to cycle through the picturesque landscapes of Kanchanaburi, I knew it was a family adventure we couldn’t miss. Join me as I recount our thrilling day of cycling and SUP on the River Kwai.
Pedaling Through Paradise: Our Morning Adventure
As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for activities that promise both adventure and bonding time. So when I heard about Cycling in Kanchanaburi, I knew it was a must-try for our family. The morning of our cycling adventure, we were greeted by the warm and welcoming team at SUP Hire Thailand. They had arranged everything perfectly, from the high-quality bikes to the safety gear. My husband and I, along with our two kids, were ready to explore the stunning rural landscapes of Kaeng Sian.
The morning ride was an absolute delight. We cycled through lush rice fields, sugar cane plantations, and spotted numerous birds and wildlife. The kids were thrilled, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace and joy as we pedaled through the serene countryside. Our guide was fantastic, ensuring we navigated safely through the dirt roads, mud, and puddles left by the recent rains. It was a fun and slightly messy adventure, but that’s what made it so memorable!
Afternoon Adventures: A Different Perspective
After a refreshing break back at our resort, we embarked on the afternoon bike ride. This time, the route took us closer to the River Kwai Yai. While the morning ride was all about nature and tranquility, the afternoon ride offered a different perspective. We crossed the river twice and cycled on roads, which was a bit more challenging with the traffic. However, our guide was attentive and made sure we cycled safely.
For families with kids, I would recommend the morning route for its mix of small roads, dirt paths, and trails. It’s perfect for a family adventure, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of the countryside without the hustle and bustle of the roads. The afternoon ride, though less scenic, was still an enjoyable experience, especially for those who love a bit of a challenge.
SUP on the River Kwai: A Splashing Good Time
The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) experience on the River Kwai. Having only tried SUP casually during beach vacations, my husband and I were excited to take on this new challenge. We started with a two-hour intro lesson with Troy, who was incredibly patient and knowledgeable. After mastering the basics, we continued our journey down the river with Fadel as our guide.
The entire trip was meticulously planned, from the pick-up at our resort to the drop-off at the river’s edge. The team ensured we were well-prepared, even providing a phone number to call in case of any issues. As we paddled towards the famous Bridge Over the River Kwai, we were filled with a sense of accomplishment and awe. We even timed our arrival perfectly to see a train pass over the bridge, a truly unforgettable moment.
This adventure was not just about the activities but also about the connections we made. Communicating with Fadel in Melayu added a unique touch to our experience, making it even more special. A big thank you to Troy, Fadel, and the entire team for taking such good care of us and making this a family adventure to remember!