The Rotte is a 22-kilometer river in the Rhine-Maas delta in Zuid-Holland, Netherlands. It originates near Moerkapelle and flows south toward Rotterdam, where it historically connected to the Nieuwe Maas. The river is the etymological source of Rotterdam's name, referencing a dam built across it by local inhabitants in the 13th century. The name "Rotte" itself derives from a word relating to mud, reflecting the river's character as a waterway through low-lying polder terrain.

The river is constrained on either side by high levees, giving paddlers a somewhat enclosed feel along much of the route. The surrounding landscape is characterized by greenhouses, canals, and bike paths, with rowing clubs appearing every few kilometers along the banks. Windmills are visible along the route, particularly near Terbregge. The river passes through suburban and semi-rural scenery between the polders north of Rotterdam and the city's outskirts.

For paddlers, the Rotte is widely regarded as a calm and manageable waterway, suitable for beginners and those seeking a relaxed outing. It is frequently recommended as a safer alternative to paddling on the Maas, which carries strong currents, large commercial vessel traffic, and significant wave action. Crew shells and larger recreational boats do use the Rotte, and paddlers should be aware of their wakes, particularly at low bridges where larger vessels must wait for scheduled openings while smaller craft can pass freely.

A rental shop is located on the west side of the river. One notable route connects the Rotte to the Kralingseplas via a lock; the lock operates seasonally and stops after November 1st, after which portaging may be required. The Bergse Voorplas is another accessible lake reachable from the river. Paddling from the northern stretches toward central Rotterdam covers roughly 16 miles. Restaurants with docking areas are available along the route, and the river sees considerable recreational use during warm weather. The lock passage between the Kralingseplas and the connecting canal requires rising approximately two meters and demands care near the lock doors.