Translated and adapted with permission from an article by Letizia De Crosta on Guideslow
In addition to its fascinating wealth of villages, traditions, and excellent cuisine, Molise has long been a sought-after destination for those who enjoy thrill-filled sports. The Sangro and Biferno rivers are ideal for discovering the region’s most dynamic and adrenaline-filled side, popular with both experts and beginners, thanks in large part to the presence and assistance of qualified associations and guides. Descending the rivers in a canoe or raft is an experience not to be missed because, in addition to being able to enjoy it in the company of other “adventurers,” it also offers intense moments of direct contact with nature.
Along the Sangro River
The crystal-clear waters of the Sangro River meander through a picturesque landscape, between mountains and dense woodlands, inviting you to raft or canoe. The rafting route is approximately 5 kilometers long and offers a splendid “walk on the water” among ancient trees and lush vegetation rich in biodiversity.
For most of the year, the Sangro offers a variety of sensations and experiences, thanks to a varying water level through the seasons and the presence of torrential stretches alternating with calmer or gently sloping sections. The large flow of water in spring makes for highly engaging and exciting excursions. In summer and autumn, however, you can enjoy more gentle descents, particularly popular with beginners and families. In midsummer, while cruising the river, you can admire the surrounding nature in its full explosion of colors and shapes, and you can also take the opportunity to take fun dips and swim in the cool waters. The Sangro is certainly one of the most inspiring Italian rivers to explore, and the team at Sangro Outdoor Experience is ready to help you learn more about this world, both from a sporting and naturalistic perspective.
Along the Biferno River
This waterway originates from several springs near the municipality of Bojano and is reinvigorated by the numerous streams and tributaries it crosses along its approximately 83-kilometer course before reaching its mouth in the Adriatic Sea. In recent years, an increasing number of enthusiasts have begun navigating the river, especially aboard canoes.
The team at Molise Avventura explains that the most popular type is the Canadian (with two stations), where each canoeist uses a single-bladed paddle. There are two preferred routes for canoeing along the Biferno, starting from the Calderari tributary and the Pietre Cadut spring. Those seeking an even more thrilling experience can swap the Canadian canoes for a rafting dinghy and paddle the stretch of river from Colle D’Anchise to Busso. In the height of spring, this route offers adventurous “strolls” and guarantees a fun experience that is often unexpected in this area.