Top 10 outdoor activities in Italy
When we talk about Italy, we mostly think of its famous cuisine, the romantic canals of Venice, the famous Vatican and the ancient ruins of Rome or the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence. But before being one of the world's capitals of fashion and cultural monuments, this country is above all a place where it is good to live and spend holidays in a dream setting. Bordered by the Mediterranean and theAdriatic,Italy is also rich in nautical and outdoor activities.
If you're heading to this region and you're looking for a thrill, then here's a short article on the different sports you can try in this must-see destination in Europe. Whether it's hiking, biking, underwater excursions, white water rafting or mountain sports,Italy 's diversity allows for all sorts of activities to be enjoyed by the whole family. Here are a few examples with a small non-exhaustive list.
Rafting on the river Noce
The Noce in Val di Sole (Valley of the Sun) is a 105 kilometre long river running through the Italian Alps, a tributary of the Adige located in the alpine paradise of the Dolomites in northern Italy. It is one of the longest waterways in Europe with over 28 km of waterways and is undoubtedly one of the most suitable for rafting. Fed by melting glaciers, the Noce River is famous for its thundering rapids that swirl through the Mostizzolo Gorge. With steep cliffs and snow-capped peaks towering over your journey, this activity will also give you a thrill in terms of the view as you have a breathtaking panorama all along the way.
Downhill biking in Finale Ligure
Located in a small town in the province of Savona in Liguria, this spot is world famous for its mountain bike routes. This dream destination owes its success mainly to its exceptional panorama where the sea and the mountains meet. Several enduro and freeride mountain bike events are organised on the Finale Ligure spot, often starting from the church of Madonna Della Guardia. For the DH (downhill) sections, we recommend the Manie area with a breathtaking view over the beautiful village of Varigotti rich in colours and vegetation. You will ride along the Mediterranean coast with many rocky trails and paths dedicated to downhill biking in a unique area.
Ski touring in Madonna di Campiglio
Let the explorer in you speak and try this fantastic ski touring adventure in the heart of the Brenta Dolomites, in Madonna di Campiglio. Lunar landscapes, snow-covered forests, breathtaking peaks coloured by the sunlight and the silence of pure nature will accompany you every day. A tour that will allow you to fully experience the mountain at 360° in a complete immersive experience! The routes are of medium difficulty with 700 meters of vertical drop and a daily activity of 6/7 hours accompanied by professional and friendly Italian mountain guides during this incredible journey.
Skydiving in Amalfi
Amalfi is a town located a few kilometres from Naples in a spectacular natural setting at the foot of the steep cliffs of the south-western Italian coast. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in Europe that you will have the opportunity to discover as the crow flies. You jump from the exceptional altitude of 4500 meters and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Amalfi coast of Sorrento, Ischia, Vesuvius and the Greek temples of Paestum.
Via ferrata at Lake Garda
The north of Lake Garda lies at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites, one of the most beautiful mountains in the world, and Arco is a world famous climbing paradise. These rock faces offer spectacular suspensions and panoramic views. Whether it is Cima Capi, Rio Sallagoni or Cengia dei Contrabbandieri, the most beautiful via ferratas in the region are organised by Jacopo. All you have to do is choose the one that best suits your preferences.
Ice climbing in Cogne (Italy)
Follow the guide and discover the hidden wonders of Cogne during a day trip and ice climbing. Cogne is an ideal playground for ice climbing for everyone. You will find many possibilities in a beautiful environment that will make you want to push your limits and reach new heights. Ice climbing, despite appearances, is really accessible to everyone. Just follow the advice of your experienced mountain guide.
Snorkeling in Cinque Terre
Go on an incredible snorkelling trip along the coast of Porto Venere and Lerici. This is the perfect opportunity to spend a fun day with family and friends while exploring the clear waters of Cinque Terre. During this activity, you will be accompanied by an expert instructor and marine biologist, who will show you the incredible marine life, such as puffer fish, jellyfish, lobsters, and more! Snorkelling is accessible to all and will allow you to explore the sandy seabed, rocky reefs and caves. You will also learn about the history and traditions of the villages and areas you will see: Portovenere Natural Park, Lerici San Terenzo and Tellaro.
Canöe-Kayak in Alagna Valsesia
Alagna Valsesia is a small mountain village situated at 119 metres above sea level south of Monte Rosa, the second largest mountain after Monte Bianco, and north of the Italian Alpine valley of Valsesia. The village is known as the freeride, off-piste skiing and snowboarding capital of the world, as there is a wide variety of skiable slopes. Climbing enthusiasts are not left out either, the 1250 metre Fun'd Scotte cliff is the most iconic wall in Alagna and attracts all free climbing and bouldering enthusiasts. The Sesia River, which runs through the Valsesia Valley, is perfect for rafting, kayaking, hydrospeed or canyoning. This spot, situated at an altitude of 2500 metres, hosted the world kayaking championship in 2002.
Tyrolean traverse at Kronplatz
If you're travelling through Tyrol, then you must try Tyrol! Located in the beautiful Pustertal Valley, Kronplatz is a resort in the Dolomites in South Tyrol and a popular summer destination for active holidays. With an altitude of 2,275 metres, Kronplatz has a unique view of the Dolomites and the Alps. This spot is famous for paragliding but also for zip-lining. Most of the zipline routes are built in places of great natural beauty, such as San Vigilio di Marebbe. The total distance you will cover is about 3,200 metres and you will cross the longest zip line in Europe which is 700 metres long!
Diving in the Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands have been home to many civilizations throughout history. There are many archaeological sites, some dating back to 4000 BC! Explore the different islands of Alicudi, Filicudi, Lipari, Panarea, Salini, Stromboli and Vulcano and enjoy the beautiful fishing villages. Ideal for beginners and expert divers. Strong volcanic activity is what has given the island its shape and seabed creating a rocky environment of collapsed volcanoes and caves that offer incredible views: from rows of glistening obsidian stones to sand tinged with white and black pumice. The biodiversity of the underwater flora and fauna is impressive. You will have the opportunity to see starfish, corals, anemones, turbot, jellyfish and if you are lucky you may see whales and dolphins! If you want to have a special experience you can go and discover archaeological sites and find remains of ancient civilizations!
Surfing in Santa Maria di Leuca
Italy is not the first place in Europe that you think of when you are looking for a surfing spot and yet this sport is very popular in this country, especially in the Liguria region with the spots of Varazze and Levanto. But in the region of Puglia located in the south of the country at the heel of the boot, there is a superb surf spot. In Santa Maria di Leuca in the municipality of Castrignano del Capo, there is a beautiful place to surf with a few less tourists (and a few more locals) and above all a breathtaking view that is worth the diversions.
