Spring is everyone's favourite time of the year, and with its arrival the icy waters have thawed, bringing with it the perfect conditions for rafting!

Umbria has a predominantly hilly terrain and is home to several rivers, including some of the longest in central Italy. These factors make it an ideal location for rafting in Italy.

The Tiber and its offshoot, the Nera, with its Marmore waterfalls, are the ideal rivers for rafting.

Rafting is an excellent group sport to participate in, whether with friends or co-workers. In a group of 8 to 12 people, tackling the river rapids in a rubber dinghy demands a lot of coordination, especially while rowing together.

Before you put on your wetsuit and start paddling, you need to know that there are many levels in the world of rafting, and you will find them all in Umbria. The scale goes from 1 to 6, where 1 is for the calmer rivers and 6 for the more aggressive but fun rapids.

What are the best places in Umbria to go rafting?

- Terni Province: The Marmore Falls is the highest waterfall in Italy and among the highest in Europe, with a jump of 165 meters, almost at the end of the valley carved by the Nera river. It is only a few kilometres from Terni, and amid the lush greenery of Nera River Park's protected region, you can raft in the fourth-degree rapids that this river generates. It requires challenging navigation and even the boarding place, just after the falls, is ideal for adrenaline junkies. The route takes 40 minutes to complete.

- Provincia de Perugia: The parts around Spoleto on the Nera River are recommended for rafting. Depending on the level, you'll discover several forms of descents here.

• From Sant'Anatolia to Scheggino: Low difficulty sections for duration of 2h (5km).

• Another mild rafting route runs between the Ferentillo and the Arrone bridges in the Nera River Park, offering 5 kilometres of lush greenery.

• Alternatively, for those seeking more excitement and adventure, a 10-kilometre rafting session lasting for 3 hours is available.

- For those who wish to enjoy a calm 'walk' in nature, Serravalle di Norcia, on the Corno river, is another rafting region in the province of Perugia. The Corno, a pristine river, flows narrowly and rapid at times and openly and powerfully at others.

- Between Norcia and Cascia, you can go rafting along the river for a 12-kilometre stretch. For the more experienced, a 2-hour rafting trip is available and for children (including those under the age of 14), a 1-hour descent is also available.

The first section of this river's rafting begins in the Biselli Gorge, where the river glistens with different hues of green and flows fast and will leave you captivated. Then there's a second stretch when the forest thickens, the speed picks up, and you'll come across a tiny waterfall.

You will be provided with all essential equipment for the descent, including a helmet, vest, and waterproof suit, as well as a life jacket. All you need to bring is swimming wear and a towel. Don't forget to dress accordingly for the season!

Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for rafting in Umbria, when the rivers are at their broadest, from April to October. But for those that don't enjoy the cold, summer is perfect for you.

This activity is perfect for adults and children in groups or with the family, for a low price ranging from 20€ to 50€. It is an experience for everyone. Spend two delightful hours away from the tension and crowds of people at touristic places. Immerse yourself in nature and bathe in the waters of the waterfalls.

The thrill and fun that this experience provides will not disappoint you. Experience an unforgettable time in Umbria with the best rafting! So, what exactly are you waiting for?