ADRENALINE EXPERIENCES ON LAKE GARDA

ADRENALINE EXPERIENCES ON LAKE GARDA

Lake Garda is not just a destination for relaxation: its geography makes it one of the most versatile places in Italy for those looking for adventure. The mountains that drop steeply to the water, the constant winds and the gorges carved into the rocks of the surrounding valleys create ideal conditions for a wide variety of outdoor sports, suitable for every level of experience. Below we present some adrenaline activities to try during your stay.

If you are travelling with children, many of these experiences are accessible to younger guests too, but the minimum age varies depending on the activity and the operator. We always recommend checking directly before booking.

Recommended activities

Canyoning

Descending a rocky gorge without a boat: that is canyoning. Depending on the route chosen, this discipline can combine climbing, swimming, jumping and hiking, and it is perfect to enjoy as a group. You will slide down natural chutes smoothed by thousands of years of flowing water, deep in unspoilt nature: a truly memorable experience.

Rafting

You will take on white-water rivers aboard inflatable dinghies called "rafts", paddling together to overcome natural obstacles. Teamwork is everything: you move in sync and follow the guide's instructions. Despite its wild appearance, it is suitable even for non-swimmers, thanks to the safety equipment provided.

Kayak

If you want to explore the lake, kayaking is the right choice. Seated inside this small craft, you can paddle across the water's surface, get close to rocky shores and discover hidden coves and secret spots that cannot be seen from land. It is an accessible activity for the whole family: double kayaks are available for taking younger children along, and guided tours are on offer for those who prefer company. Among the most convenient departure points for guests staying in the area are San Felice del Benaco and Manerba del Garda.

Kitesurfing

For a rush of adrenaline right at water level, kitesurfing is the one to try. You stand on a board and hold a kite, letting the wind's power pull you forward. Lake Garda is one of Italy's most popular destinations for this sport, thanks to the steady winds that blow from the north, between Riva del Garda and Torbole. Local schools cater for all levels.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing is similar to kitesurfing, but direction is not controlled by a kite: the sail is attached directly to the board and you hold the boom to steer. Lake Garda is also one of Europe's most celebrated destinations for windsurfing. It is no coincidence that Torbole hosted the first Windsurfing World Championships in 1985 and continues to attract international regattas every year: these waters have shaped the history of the sport.

Via ferrata

A via ferrata is a mountain route on rocky faces equipped with steel cables, iron rungs, brackets and walkways, designed to allow a safe ascent even for those who are not experienced climbers. It sits halfway between hiking and rock climbing: you gain altitude, tackle vertical rock faces and reach viewpoints that would otherwise be very hard to reach.

Hang gliding

In hang gliding you fly in a prone position, lying face down, supported by a rigid frame that provides speed and manoeuvrability. It is an intense experience, suited to those who love a real thrill. Tandem flights with an experienced pilot mean you can try it with no technical preparation whatsoever.

Paragliding

Paragliding is often described as "a walk in the sky": you sit in a harness beneath a soft canopy and fly in a slower, more contemplative way than hang gliding. Monte Baldo, reachable by cable car from Malcesine, is one of Italy's most famous launch sites for this discipline. Tandem flights with certified pilots are available, making it accessible to everyone. From Monte Baldo the entire lake stretches out below: on the clearest days you can make out the windsurfers' sails on the water, the villages on the far shore and the outline of the Alps in the background.

Parasailing

In parasailing you are harnessed to a parachute and towed by a motorboat, rising up to 100 metres above the water. No physical effort or special skills are required: you take off from the boat, climb gently and land back on the same boat. You can fly in pairs, and it is perhaps the most relaxed activity on this list, even if you are still flying over the lake towed by a speedboat.

Helicopter flight

If you are looking for a completely new perspective on the lake, a helicopter flight is an experience you will not forget. Depending on the package chosen, you will fly along the coastline and discover the Sirmione peninsula, the Garda islands, the villages and the mountains that surround the lake.

Conclusion

Lake Garda is a complete destination for every type of traveller: you can relax on the beach, go on a food tour, visit the villages… or you can climb a mountain, ride a natural water slide or fly over the lake by paraglider.

Our camping Europa Silvella is on the Brescia shore: lakeside activities are practically on your doorstep, while mountain and river adventures are around an hour away by car. If you would like some advice on how to plan your days, stop by reception: we will help you find the most convenient solution for you.

And do not hold back just because it sounds daunting: some say they have spotted Arturo, our mascot, kitesurfing at sunset. Apparently he fell off quite a few times - but shh, don't tell anyone.

See you soon on Lake Garda! Your #campingwithlove