6 destinations in Italy for sports enthusiasts

If you can't envision your holiday without adrenaline-raising outdoor action, then you've found your perfect destination! Italy offers it all, from stunning mountain landscapes to captivating coastlines, ensuring your travel experience is brimming with sports and adventure.

Discover the top 6 Italian destinations that will satisfy even the most demanding sports enthusiasts and book your next ferry trip on Ferryhopper!

Rejuvenating morning run in the Italian countryside

1) Elba Island: the mountain bikers paradise

How about a thrilling weekend getaway on the enchanting island of Elba, all on 2 wheels? Whether you're a professional cyclist or a bike enthusiast, the largest island in the Tuscan archipelago offers the perfect playground!

With its dramatic seaside cliffs, lush forests and charming villages, Elba boasts an array of trails suitable for all skill levels. You can embark on a scenic journey from Cavo to Marina di Campo, cycling along the coastline or conquering elevated routes. Alternatively, take on the challenge of circumnavigating the entire island, covering roughly 120 km, all while relishing breathtaking views from the heights of Monte Capanne.

But wait, there's more! Every May, Elba hosts the Capoliveri Legend Cup, a thrilling mountain bike race that attracts athletes from around the globe.

Useful tip: the quickest way to reach Elba is with the Piombino - Elba ferry, opting for the route to Cavo port. Also, don't forget to reserve a ticket for your bike!

2) Santa Marinella: Italy's surfing heaven

If you're a high-thrill personality seeking to ride the waves in a picture-perfect setting, the charming coastal town of Santa Marinella, in the Italian Lazio region, beckons as your next ultimate destination!

Nestled along the breathtaking Tyrrhenian Sea, Santa Marinella is located 12 km from Civitavecchia port and it has been a magnet for surfing aficionados since the 80s. With consistent winds and favorable currents, Santa Marinella's long beaches offer an idyllic setting for year-round surfing.

The most renowned spot along the coast is Banzai Beach, celebrated globally for its exceptional surf schools. Moreover, the neighboring town of Santa Severa hosts the annual Italy Surf Expo, an international event dedicated to the action-sports world.

Surfer riding the wave on Santa Marinella beach

3) Calabria: thrilling rafting adventures in south Italy

While the Calabria region is often celebrated for its stunning beaches, it's also one of Italy's top rafting destinations. The Lao River, located in the Pollino National Park, offers an exhilarating rafting adventure in one of the most pristine and breathtaking natural settings.

Amidst narrow gorges, canyons, waterfalls, and descents, rafting on the Lao River in Calabria promises to be a fun, action-packed adventure for everyone! Specialized facilities, expert guides and a range of route options are available on-site, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Usually, the starting points for a Lao River rafting expedition are conveniently located approximately 1.5 hours from the city of Cosenza, 2 hours from Salerno and 3 hours from Reggio Calabria. 

Tip: the prime rafting season in Calabria spans from April to November, so seize the opportunity for an adrenaline rush in this captivating region!

4) Naples: high-altitude trekking on Vesuvius

When visiting Naples, ascending Mount Vesuvius volcano is a must! Home to 11 hiking paths with a total length of 54 km, the Vesuvius National Park offers a unique blend of nature, history and thrilling exploration.

While the volcano crater is the ultimate highlight, the park’s hiking trails also reveal breathtaking panoramic views. Beyond the physical activity, you'll gain insights into volcanology and Vesuvius’ history through informative panels and museums within the park.

Note: even if you're an experienced hiker, we strongly recommend exercising caution and consulting the official Vesuvius National Park website for more info about the trails.

Tip: read our dedicated blog to discover more ideal hiking destinations in Italy!

One of the numerous panoramic paths of the Vesuvius National Park in Naples

5) Sicily: year-round kitesurfing in Marsala

Beyond its wine heritage, the town of Marsala, in western Sicily, boasts a unique territory cherished by water sports enthusiasts.

More specifically, the Stagnone Lagoon of Marsala is Europe’s go-to spot for kitesurfing thanks to its shallow waters, ultra-flat waters and constant wind blowing 300 days a year.

In Marsala, you can refine your kiteboarding skills or embark on a new sporting adventure for all levels. You might even be lucky enough to spot your favorite kitesurf champion performing there!

Useful tip: extend your sports adventure to the Aegadian Islands! Take a ferry from Marsala to Favignana, explore hiking trails and make the most of the island's calm waters for a paddleboarding experience!

6) Sardinia: where diving dreams come true

With 6 protected marine areas, Sardinia is a true haven for scuba diving enthusiasts. This amazing Italian island offers spectacular dive sites, submerged treasures and caves teeming with vibrant marine life.

If you are an experienced diver vacationing in Cagliari, you shouldn't miss the Loredan wreck, one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. The small island of Tavolara, off the coast of Olbia, is also a fantastic scuba diving destination, especially famous for the Secca del Papa site.

We also recommend planning a day trip to La Maddalena to explore the underwater wonderland of the Secca di Washington. This extraordinary place conceals a submerged cave and promises a spectacular experience amidst gorgonians, sea sponges, groupers, and moray eels!

The beautiful seabed of the island of La Maddalena, in Sardinia

Italy awaits you for an unforgettable adventure that combines the best of both worlds - sports and culture. Take a look at our Map of ferries, choose your next destination and experience the beauty of Italy in an active and engaging way!

Tip: we recommend checking out the 2024 ferry offers for Italy to find the best fares for your holiday!