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If you’re looking to combine a splash of adventure with a slice of Tuscany’s natural beauty, this kayaking experience on the Serchio River in Lucca might just be what you need. It’s a three-hour escapade designed for those who want to see a different side of Tuscany beyond the rolling hills and historic city walls. Instead, you’ll glide through tranquil waters, passing under the famous Ponte del Diavolo—a striking medieval bridge—and soaking in views that are hard to match.
What really catches our eye about this tour is how accessible it is for beginners. You don’t need to be a seasoned paddler to enjoy the river’s gentle flow, and the safety measures are reassuring. One thing to note, though, is that the tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility or heart issues. It’s best suited for adventurous families, solo travelers, or groups eager to add a splash of activity to their Tuscany trip.
Key Points
- Accessible for beginners with safety guidance and simple equipment
- Unique perspective of Ponte del Diavolo from the river
- Includes transportation from Lucca, making logistics easier
- Good value for the price, with a well-organized, 3-hour experience
- Ideal for active travelers seeking authentic experiences
- Limited age and health restrictions for safety and comfort
The Experience: What It’s Like to Kayak on the Serchio
This tour offers a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural charm. It begins at Lucca Rafting, where a friendly guide welcomes you and provides a safety briefing. Even if you’ve never kayaked before, you’ll find the instructions straightforward—perfect for beginners. The equipment is simple, with single-post kayaks designed for stability and ease of use.
Once on the water, your journey is a mix of peaceful stretches and gentle rapids. The guide will navigate the group through quiet passages, where the only sounds are your paddles and the river’s current, and more lively sections that ramp up the fun. According to a recent review, the tour often feels more like kayak rafting because of the mix of peaceful and rapid sections, which adds an element of excitement.
The highlight of the tour is definitely passing under the Ponte del Diavolo, a medieval bridge shrouded in legends and history. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy a perspective unseen from the streets of Lucca—standing beneath this historic marvel while the river flows around you. One reviewer described it as “more like kayak rafting”, emphasizing the lively, engaging nature of the experience.
Detailed Itinerary and What You’ll Experience
Starting Point: Lucca Rafting
The tour kicks off at a central location in Lucca, where you meet your guide and get fitted with your kayak and safety gear. The initial safety briefing is thorough and takes into account first-timers, making sure everyone feels prepared. The group then boards a short van ride (around 10 minutes) to the river’s starting point, which is a great way to settle nerves and enjoy some scenic views along the way.
Paddling to Ponte della Maddalena
The main part of the tour lasts roughly 105 minutes on the water, during which you’ll enjoy a variety of paddling experiences. The route is curated to include both calm stretches and some more energetic sections, with the guide ensuring safety and fun every step of the way. Reviewers have described the journey as “a lot of fun”, with opportunities to try slides or even jump from rocks if you’re feeling adventurous.
Throughout the passage, the guide carefully monitors the group, making sure everyone stays safe and has the best experience possible. The tour is suitable for those experiencing water activities for the first time, thanks to the attentive supervision.
The Iconic Ponte del Diavolo
The tour culminates with a passage directly beneath the Ponte del Diavolo, a striking bridge with a dramatic history. From this vantage point, you’ll get an unmatched view that offers a fresh appreciation of this architectural marvel. It’s a photo-worthy moment, and many participants mention how unique it feels to stand under the bridge while the river flows past—something you simply can’t do from land.
Return to Base
After about 105 minutes paddling and exploring, the group heads back to the starting point, with a quick van ride back (around 3 minutes). The entire experience lasts around three hours, including transportation, safety briefing, paddling, and the return.
What’s Included and Transportation
The tour includes all necessary equipment—kayaks, paddles, safety gear—and the option for pickup and drop-off at Bagni di Lucca station (subject to agreement). This makes organizational logistics easier, especially if you’re staying nearby or traveling by train.
Since the tour is priced at just under $57 per person, it offers good value for money. It’s a well-organized outing that manages to combine safety, fun, and cultural sights without feeling rushed or overhyped.
Practical Considerations and Tips
- What to bring: Pack your swimwear and a sense of adventure. The water can be refreshing and fun, especially on hot days.
- Age and health restrictions: Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility, heart issues, or certain age restrictions (over 70 or 95). Always check your health conditions before booking.
- Weather: As with any outdoor water activity, check the forecast—rain or high winds might affect the experience.
- Booking and cancellation: You can reserve your spot and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes planning easier.
Authentic Feedback and What Travelers Say
One recent guest shared, “Our guide was super nice! The tour was a lot of fun—everything was included, and the mix of quiet passages, rapids, and even jumping from rocks made it feel more like kayak rafting than just paddling around.” This highlights how well-organized and engaging the experience is, even for those new to water sports.
Another reviewer emphasized good value, noting that it’s “absolutely worth the money” and highly recommended for a memorable day out in Tuscany. The emphasis on safety and having fun is clear from these reviews, making it appealing to a broad range of travelers.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This kayaking trip is perfect for active travelers eager to see Tuscany from a different angle—literally. It’s an excellent choice for families (over 12), groups of friends, or solo explorers looking for a fun, safe adventure. If you’re curious about the Ponte del Diavolo or want to experience nature without straying far from Lucca, this tour offers a lively and authentic option.
It’s less suitable for those with serious health concerns, mobility restrictions, or very young children, but for most adventure-seekers, it offers a memorable, scenic, and affordable outing.
Final Thoughts
For just under $60, this three-hour kayaking tour on the Serchio River combines natural beauty, a touch of history, and a splash of fun. The route’s highlights, especially passing beneath the Ponte del Diavolo, make it a unique way to experience Tuscany’s outdoors. The safety measures, friendly guides, and inclusive approach mean most travelers, even novices, will find this a worthwhile addition to their itinerary.
If you’re craving an active day, appreciate well-organized outdoor activities, and love authentic experiences, this tour offers excellent value and memorable sights. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for a blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty—all in one splashy package.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for those new to kayaking, with safety instructions and supervision provided throughout.
How long does the kayaking last?
The paddling portion lasts approximately 105 minutes, with the entire experience including transportation, safety briefings, and return time totaling about three hours.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, and dress for water activities. It’s also good to have a towel and possibly a change of clothes if you plan to swim or jump.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the experience is not suitable for children under 12 years old.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is transportation included?
Transport to the river’s starting point is included if you opt for pickup and drop-off at Bagni di Lucca station, subject to agreement.
What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions can impact outdoor water activities; it’s best to check the forecast and contact the provider if in doubt.
Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to safety concerns.
This kayaking experience on the Serchio River offers a lively, scenic, and authentic way to enjoy Tuscany’s nature. Whether you’re after a fun family outing, a solo adventure, or a memorable activity with friends, it’s a well-priced, well-organized choice that guarantees a different perspective of Lucca and its surrounding landscapes.