Best Rivers in Europe for Unforgettable Rafting During Your Holiday
Travelling through Europe is not only about theatres, museums, or beaches. Europe, with its diverse landscapes and rushing rivers, is a favourite destination for mountain water sports enthusiasts. So, if you are seeking cool thrills and excitement on your holiday, rafting is the perfect choice to add joy to your next holiday or weekend. We have compiled the best rivers for rafting in Europe to enjoy thrilling water adventures with friends, family, or colleagues.
Rafting is a sport and recreational outdoor activity that uses a sturdy inflatable multi-person boat to navigate down a river. During commercial rafting trips, you are always accompanied by a guide, receive proper instructions and equipment, so no experience is needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.
Mreznica River: Chasing Waterfalls in Croatia
The Mreznica River in Croatia is renowned for its 93 waterfalls along its 39-mile length. It is rare to find a long stretch of open water without a waterfall, making it an ideal spot for portaging, where you pack your raft and carry it in a backpack to avoid obstacles. On the calm section of the Mreznica River near the town of Zvecaj, you can set up a "training camp" to learn how to inflate and pack the raft, paddle, and master self-rescue techniques. Starting the trip from Zvecaj through the smooth and easy part of the river before moving to the wilder upper Mreznica allows you to enjoy beautiful scenery, paddle through narrow channels, tackle several rapids, and even paddle down one of the waterfalls.
Southern Bug River: A Mountain and Water Oasis Among Ukraine's Steppes
The Southern Bug River in the Mykolaiv region is one of the major rivers in the Black Sea basin and the only major river in Ukraine that flows entirely within its territory, stretching 806 kilometres. It is unique because its waters do not dry up, making rafting possible throughout the summer. Thanks to the Myhiya Rapids, which number 13 during the tourist descent, the waters of the Southern Bug break into channels with granite cliffs, canyons, and rapids along the entire route, which is 8 to 10 kilometres long. Adding to the extreme emotions is the picturesque surrounding nature. Myhiya is a mountain and water oasis amid the Ukrainian steppes in a national nature park.
Vltava River: The Gentle Heart of the Czech Republic
The Vltava, the longest river in the Czech Republic, offers exceptional rafting that attracts families and groups seeking peaceful and scenic adventures. Its calm waters and gentle rapids are perfect for beginners or those wanting a leisurely day on the water. Flowing through Prague, the Vltava provides a unique view of the city's historical landmarks from the water. Downstream, the river meanders through classic Bohemian landscapes, offering views of medieval castles and verdant forests. Besides rafting and kayaking, the Vltava is also popular for boating, with many spots designated for easy water access.
Soca River: Slovenia's Emerald Beauty
The Soca River in Slovenia is famous for its emerald colour and crystal-clear water. This river flows through the wild and beautiful Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps. The most popular commercial section is 8 kilometres long, starting near the famous Boka Waterfall and offering 1.5 hours on the river. The rapids are classified as Grade II-III, making it ideal for the whole family when the water level is sufficient. There are spots for amazing cliff jumps and calm sections where you can swim in pristine, tranquil water. The water here is so clear that you will want to scoop it up with your hands and taste it.
The Noce River: Stone Rapids in the Heart of Italy's Dolomites
The Noce River, located in the picturesque Val di Sole in Italy, is world-renowned for its intense rapids and exceptional alpine atmosphere. It attracts rafters from all over Europe who seek to test their courage in the roaring waters of Grade IV-V. The Noce River offers an unrivalled rafting experience, with routes that wind through stunning gorges and breathtaking views of the Dolomite peaks. Thrill-seekers will get their fill, while beginners will also find gentler sections ideal for a first-time water adventure. Besides rafting, the area offers numerous other outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Val di Sole.