Italy might be a haven for foodie lovers, limoncello connoisseurs (that’s me!), and culture vultures, but more unknowingly (especially if this is the first of my active travel posts about Italy you’ve read), it’s also a haven for travellers seeking an active adventure. From the rolling hills, vast lake expanses, and south coast gems, active holidays are a perfect way to experience quintessential Italy, whilst keeping fit.
Sounds enticing? Here are some of the best destinations in Italy, for an active escape.
Water Sports on Lake Garda
Water-worshippers can take on the calm currents of Lake Garda. The largest out-of-the-lake portfolio in Italy is a paradise for watersports. From tame meanders to more adventurous movements, the lake can suit a wide range of holidaymakers wanting to stay active. Thanks to steady winds, the lake waters within Torbole create the perfect conditions for windsurfing. Whether a team of novices or experts, the area is equipped with a wide range of schools and rental shops to cater to all skill levels. You never know, you just might end up at the Windsurfing Internationa Gala, which takes place on Garda every year!
Kitesurfing is another popular option and this sport combines surfing with paragliding techniques for a nostalgic experience of kite flying amid glorious Italian greenery. Or, for a sit-down activity, both canoeing and kayaking are active ways to explore secluded coves and the rocky cliffs from below. These shores also offer some excellent scuba diving and snorkelling spots, where you can witness colourful coral reefs and historic shipwrecks below ground level. Get up close to local marine life too.
Skiing in Cortina
In the northern region of Veneto, nestled in the Italian Alps, lies the resort of Cortina, which’s ideal for skiers of all experience backgrounds. With the dramatic Dolmites background of sublime valleys, the white mountains are picture-perfect with flawless ski conditions. SNO ski all-inclusive resorts craft luxury ski holidays for travellers seeking luxury in the snow. Dine at a combination of Italian cuisine and modern international restaurants serving classic mountain dishes. The thriving après scene includes clubs, dining establishments, and bars for nighttime enjoyment after long days.
Throughout the winter season, the region hosts a wealth of events and cultural festivals. With a charming vibe in the town, you can mix winter sports with strolling amid pristine façades and rich historic streets.
Historical Sightseeing in Rome
One of the most loved cities in Europe and beyond, Rome is Italy’s capital for a reason. Picture ambling through cobblestone streets ending in intricate waterworks like the Trevi and shopping till you drop around Piazza Navona. Head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Colleseum and learn of the historical significance of the world’s largest ampitheatre. With an original seating capacity of nearly eighty thousand spectators, the sheer size of the ruins still standing today is astonishing for tourists to see. Gladialatorial combat was the highlight of events at the building, and if you take on a walking tour led by an expert, you’re sure to learn a lot about Roman history.
Once out of the Colleseum, reach an even higher step count, with a stroll to the Roman Forum that stands adjacent to it. Serving as a market place and historical centre in ancient Rome, head up Paletine Hill to overlook the Forum Hill sand and wander among mythology and history. From Rome, you can even head to the world’s smallest country, the Vatican City. Where the Catholic Church plays significance to the whole state, travellers are able to marvel at the beautiful works of Michelangelo as well as view the panorama from the dome top of St. Peter’s Basilica. Walk through the streets of the Eternal City and the Vatican City to see how religion still shapes much of Europe today.
It is one of the best sight-seeing walking tours in the world and as run at sunrise, it is unbeatable and elevates, as a destination, Italy for active holidays.
Climb Mount Etna in Sicily
On the east coast of the Italian owned island, stands one of the earth’s oldest active volcanic spots. Known for continuous activity, it has been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its cultural and ecological significance. The range stands at over eleven thousand feet above sea level, and it can be hiked by tourists looking for an adrenaline rush. Experience a variety of landscapes, from dense forest land, to barren lava fields. Since the mountain is now a huge tourist attraction, the local area is synonymous with tasteful vineyards and cultural hotspots, the perfect spots for breaks amid the active holiday.
For the perfect Sicilian stay, holiday rentals in Sicily can range from luxurious beachfront cottages, to hilltop panoramic apartments. Delve into an Italian home-from-home and have a restful place to rest after busy days across the island.
Running in Sorrento
Ok, this one isn’t for the faint hearted. With its steep inclines, narrow and winding streets and drivers maybe not expecting to see someone running towards them, running in Sorrento is challenging but rewarding (in the form of limoncello slushes).
Cycling in Emilia Romagna
The Quaint Italian region in Northern Italy is renowned for classic Italian cuisine and local heritage, among rolling landscapes. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the wide array of routes in the region that cater to all levels. Whether it’s families wanting a leisurely amble through scenic vineyards, or uphill ascends in the local Apennine Mountains. Well maintained roads and various bike rental shops across the region make it perfect for anyone wanting to get involved in two-wheel rides. For a fulfilling way to explore, cycle within one of the most quintessential Italian regions.
Summary
Italy’s natural landscape is a plethora of natural colour and wonder. For travellers ready to combine exploration with keeping fit, the country awaits.
