Rafting and other river sports
Rafting and other river sports
Between gorges and canyons carved out of rocks, plenty of adrenaline and fun to master the rushing, foaming waters of the rivers
Yellow rafting dinghy in the middle of a river flowing through lush vegetation
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RAFTING

Of all river water sports, rafting is undoubtedly the best known and most popular, perhaps because it is suitable for everyone from beginners to experts. It can be done in both the most impetuous and the most tranquil stretches, offering different thrills depending on the level of difficulty chosen. Letting yourself be carried away by the current aboard a raft is not only an adrenaline rush, but also teamwork: every stroke of the paddle must be synchronised to tame the force of the river. In Umbria and particularly in the Valnerina, thanks to the presence of rivers such as the Nera and Corno, there are numerous specialised centres that allow you to try your hand at this sport, especially during the spring and summer seasons, offering theory lessons, technical clothing and safety equipment.

Red kayak led by a man holding a paddle while jumping a rapid on a river course
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CANOE/KAYAK

Another really exciting river sport can be enjoyed by boarding a canoe or kayak. These two boats differ mainly in the type of paddle used: single for the canoe and double for the kayak. Although the routes offered are often the same as for rafting, which is practised in groups or families, the descent in a kayak or canoe is an individual experience, allowing one to directly confront the power of the river. While rafting can also be practised by those approaching a river for the first time, canoeing or kayaking are real sports, to be learned through theoretical-practical lessons held in various specialised centres.

Photo of a river stretch with a flowing current
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HYDROSPEED

Where the river current becomes more bursting, channelling itself between spectacular vertical rock walls, such as near the Marmore Falls, there are ideal stretches for experiencing the thrill of hydrospeed. Hydrospeed is practised using a small floating bob, to be held firmly in the hands, and diving fins on the feet. This river sport is a real adrenalin rush, perfect for the brave who are not afraid of direct contact with water, immersed in the invigorating river waters for a thrilling adventure.

Person canyoning by abseiling inside a small canyon with safety equipment
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CANYONING

Canyoning is an activity that combines a passion for water with the thrill of heights. Armed with ropes, safety anchors and technical clothing, canyoning enthusiasts descend into the most spectacular jumps of low-flow rivers, streams and waterfalls. The sceneries that host this sport are always breathtaking: narrow gorges, suggestive ravines and small canyons sculpted by water over time. A perfect setting for an adrenaline-fuelled experience.

Two anglers sport fishing in the no-kill sections of the Nera River
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Sport fishing

Umbria offers an area rich in watercourses of particular naturalistic interest, in which it is also possible to practice sports fishing, but in full respect of biodiversity!

In particular, the Nera river, with its clear, well-oxygenated waters, is linked to the life of numerous animal species such as the beautiful brown trout, recognisable by the small black and red circular spots on its sides and head. 

To safeguard this and many other fish species, no-kill sections have been set up where, at certain times of the year and with a special permit, it is also possible to practice this sport, without, however, failing to respect the river ecosystem and its inhabitants.