See Tuscany from another point of view: navigate one of the many rivers flowing through Tuscany from an inflatable raft. Challenge yourself while immersing yourself in stunning scenery. Whether you want choppy white-water rapids or just a relaxing river cruise, there’s a suitable rafting activity for everyone.
Start with the Renaissance city. Paddle down the Arno river in Florence, gaze under the belly of Ponte Vecchio, and wave up to the crowds above as you take your solo or group cruise through the historic centre. Pass by the Uffizi Gallery and the Santa Trìnita Bridge before tackling a bigger challenge just a little further on as you head towards Cascine park. Rafting guides regale tales and stories about Florence’s history as you descend, making this as much a guided tour as a sporting event.
There are plenty of popular options for rafting on the Elsa river. The mesmerising turquoise waters owe their blue colour to the limestone in the water. Beginning in Montagnola in Siena, the waters are fed by centuries-old mineral and hot springs called the Caldane in the town of Le Vene, popular among the Etruscans and Romans. With waterfalls, pools, rushing (but easily navigable) waters and incredible colours in the water and lush landscape, this is a truly unforgettable spot for rafting. The famous Diborrato waterfall is a stunning spectacle which will have you completely in awe. This 9-metre high waterfall is also known as the “tonfo del carro armato” after a military vehicle ended up in the water during World War II and was never retrieved. Emerge from the alder, willow and elder trees in San Giorgio, feeling like you’ve spent time in another world.
Val di Lima in the heart of the Garfagnana is a flourishing region filled with rapids, grottos, canyons and frothy waters ideal for adrenaline seekers. The fastly-falling Lima river, incredible surroundings and thrilling course will see you winding through rocky walls with a varied palette of colours surrounding you. The exhilarating mountainous path will have your eyes leaping from place to place, constantly surprised.
Rolling through the Metallifere forest and the Sienese Maremma, the perfect mix of adventure and excitement awaits on the Merse river. Near to the noteworthy Abbey of San Galgano and the Petriolo thermal baths, remnants of ancient civilisations and the wilderness of nature make this region a must-see.
The peaceful Serchio flows only 10 minutes from Lucca city centre. The gently streaming river is the ideal rafting adventure for families or those who seek the time to appreciate the incredibly beautiful landscape. With stunning scenery, the 5km route runs from Lake Pian di Gioviano to the confluence with the Lima stream in Chifenti. The rapids, nicknamed La Perpetua and Train in Vain even contain dives from 3-5 meters for an extra thrill.
Another quiet river perfect for families or beginners, the Sieve river can be found in Mugello, just 30 minutes from Florence. Pull over for a picnic by the river or to spot the herons as you explore this gorgeous location.
Whether you are on the look-out for captivating scenery, a new experience, or to push yourself to the limits, there is a rafting experience out there for everyone, ensuring a memorable engagement with Tuscan nature at its purest.
