Rafting in Tuscany: adventure and adrenaline surrounded by nature
If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, rafting in Tuscany is certainly one of the most exciting activities you can try. Immersed in unspoiled nature, you can cross the Tuscan rapids aboard a rubber dinghy, enjoying the surrounding landscape and the adrenaline that this activity offers.
In this article, you will discover everything you need to know to organize a rafting experience in Tuscany, from the best locations where you can practice this activity, to the necessary equipment and the safety measures to adopt.
Where to go rafting in Tuscany
In Tuscany there are several places where you can practice rafting. Among the best known areas are the Garfagnana and the Media Valle del Serchio, two mountainous areas that are part of the province of Lucca. Among the other places where it is possible to go rafting in Tuscany, we point out the Val di Merse, in the province of Siena and Florence where it is possible to sail along the Arno. The rivers and streams of Tuscany, such as the Serchio and the Lima, offer routes suitable for both beginners and experts.
Rafting in Bagni di Lucca
Bagni di Lucca (in the province of Lucca… who would have thought it?) is one of the most popular places for those who want to practice rafting in Tuscany. Indeed, here are the Lima and Serchio rivers, which offer routes suitable for all levels of experience.
Among the most popular excursions, we point out that of the Lima stream, which crosses the homonymous Val di Lima and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Descending along the Lima, between rapids and quieter stretches, you also reach points where you can dive into the water from the rocks overhanging the stream.
Rafting on the Lima in Tuscany is an experience that you cannot miss if you are an adventure and nature lover. The Lima river extends into the province of Lucca and is perfect for those who want to try rafting for the first time or for those looking for a more intense experience. In fact, here you can choose between routes of different levels of difficulty.
Rafting on the Merse in the province of Siena
Even in the Siena area we can find places where it is possible to go rafting in Tuscany. Here is the River Merse, which offers routes suitable for all levels of experience. Among the most popular excursions, we point out the paths of the Upper Merse near the famous Abbey of San Galgano and that of the Lower Merse, near the Terme Petriolo. So if after the rafting you want to relax a bit, you can take advantage of the thermal baths.
Rafting in Florence on the Arno
If you are looking for a rafting experience closer to the city, Florence with its river is the ideal location. Here you can try urban rafting along the Arno River, admiring the city’s most famous monuments from the point of view of the river. A unique experience that will allow you to see Florence in a different and original way. Definitely less adrenaline-pumping than the other proposals, rafting on the Arno is unique for the architectural and artistic beauties it allows you to admire.
Rafting in Tuscany with children
If you want to go rafting in Tuscany with children, it is important to choose routes suitable for their age and level of experience. Among the most recommended places for rafting with children, we point out rafting on the Arno in Florence and some routes on the Lima stream, which offer routes suitable for children. In any case, it is advisable to bring children only in the summer when rivers and streams have a lower flow rate and their currents are weaker, making rafting less demanding and above all less dangerous.
Necessary equipment for rafting in Tuscany
To go rafting in Tuscany, it is important to be adequately equipped. Firstly, it is essential to wear the right equipment: helmet, life jacket, wetsuit, sneakers with non-slip soles and gloves. Also, it is important to bring along water, energy snacks and a spare shirt. All the associations that organize rafting trips are able to provide you with the main equipment such as a wetsuit, helmet and life jacket, but in any case it is always better to inquire first about the clothing and equipment to bring.
Safety measures for rafting in Tuscany
Rafting is an exciting activity, but also dangerous if safety measures are not respected. Before leaving, it is important to attend a safety briefing, where the basic principles of rafting and the rules to follow in the water will be explained. Also, it is imperative that you follow your guide’s instructions and wear safety gear.
Conclusions and suggestions
Rafting in Tuscany is an experience you cannot miss if you are looking for adventure and contact with nature. Choose the location you prefer, equip yourself properly and follow the safety measures to better enjoy this exciting activity. If you want to make your rafting experience in Tuscany even more unique, try combining the activity with other outdoor activities, such as hiking or mountain biking. In this way, you will be able to discover Tuscany in a complete and original way.
