Canoe camping in Germany's Mecklenburg Lake District

NARRATOR: In north-east Germany, the country's largest, and arguably most beautiful, fresh water paddle destination lies waiting to be discovered - the Mecklenburg Lake District. Its unique landscape and endless riverside woodlands are a paradise, particularly for canoe campers. There are many different tours through the lakes. We are eager to find out which one our canoe guide has picked out for us. With just a gentle decline and counterbalancing locks, paddling through the idyllic landscape is virtually effortless. Apart from a few exceptions, the Mecklenburg Lake District waters aren't flowing waters as you might expect. In fact, there is almost no current to speak of that might otherwise impede our canoeing pleasure. Because of this, those new to paddling are unhampered from appreciating the diversified landscape. It's important to get to grips with the ground rules before setting off. You've got to remember to stay on the right side of the canal and to yield to motorboats who have the right of way and are a bit stronger than us.

Pristine nature is the region's main asset, as tourism is often the only true source of revenue here. Canoe camping lures young, nature-loving holidaymakers to the area. In addition to regular canoe day trips, it's also possible to do a multi-day trip and camp in a tent.

We're rowing through a maze of canals and rivers. Paddling past luscious greenery, fields and meadows with just birds and butterflies as company. Nowhere else in Europe can holidaymakers find such a large, continuous stretch of water.

HOLIDAYMAKER: "This is the perfect place to go canoeing because you've got lots of small lakes linked together, and there's a camping site every seven to eight kilometers, where you can have a rest, make a campfire and get a good night's sleep."

NARRATOR: A top tip to all of you who enjoy being in the thick of nature.

HOLIDAYMAKER: "I'm very much a person who enjoys being at one with nature and I love living out here. I never want to move away because it's so magnificent. I've seen different parts of Germany, but I'm always drawn back here."

NARRATOR: The Mecklenburg Lake District - here you can experience nature first-hand, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. When you're on the water, your problems simply disappear. What you're left with are blissful memories of a breathtaking landscape that will hopefully remain untouched for a long time to come.