The Mincio river by kayak among lotus flowers

The Mincio River is a protected natural area that hosts many varieties of birds and other animals. The best way to explore this beautiful reserve among reeds, water lilies and lotus flowers is by canoe, all the way to the Upper Lake at the gates of Mantua.

Between Goito and Mantua the Mincio River has remained unchanged over time: wild and poetic, untouched by the transformations of time, often outrageous, often by mankind.

An intricate maze of canals develops into a labyrinth of dense vegetation all the way up to the famous sanctuary of the Graces, a church of Lombard Gothic style that stands right on its banks.

From Rivalta onwards, the waters of the Mincio widen to embrace, and in past times to defend, the evocative city of Mantua that appears in an enchanting choreography between the Gonzaga palace, the Palazzo Ducale, the castle of San Giorgio, the towers and bell towers – all of which create a harmonious medieval profile. Its historic center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July, 2008.

Duration: 4 hours

features

nature
culture
required condition

Highlights

Mincio River by kayak with aperitif included

Itinerary

Welcome to Rivalta, in the middle of the Mincio River Natural Park.
Independent arrival in “Rivalta sul Mincio” where you will find our guides waiting for you to welcome you. After an accurate technical briefing of the materials and related practical test in the water, we will start to paddle together by kayak inside the Natural Park, doing a classic loop tour.

The scenario we will face will look like an “oriental corner” in the heart of the Mincio waterways. The “valleys” and the “former hunting games” are located within this splendid nature reserve, the whole area is a small labyrinth of paths between reeds, water lilies and the beautiful lotus flowers (the blooming of lotus flowers takes place in the months of July and August).

Paddling in this protected area is always a surprise: a close view of the fauna where it is really easy to discover the charm of the thousand colors of nature between water and land. We will return to Rivalta, the same point from which we embarked, where an excellent aperitif will be waiting for us as a conclusion to the day spent together.

When the tour is over, the city of Mantua awaits you with delicious restaurants and cultural events.

mappa mincio

Arrive/depart

The closest airport is Verona. From there you can get a taxi, bus or train to reach your departure point (further information will be provided in the answer to your initial request).

 

Our canoes and materials

At Fun River Travels we know that a good paddling experience requires good equipment comma so we have tried to make as few compromises as possible. We want to work with the best type of boat for each environment. That is why we provide different styles of boats depending on the tour.

On river experiences we will use canoes, better for longer distances and some current.
Our canoes are usually made out of pvc material, very strong and steady to facilitate movement in a river.

Paddles and life vests will be always given to you, together with waterproof bags for the things you want to bring along on the tour.

You should all be reasonably fit for the tour you want to do … more info

Price: Euro 87,00  per person

Included in the tour

  • one of our guides
  • canoe
  • waterproof bag
  • life vest and paddle
  • Final aperitif

NOT Included in the tour

  • remaining meals and drinks
  • tips and personal extras
  • anything not specified in “Included in the tour”