The River Arno is one of the vital natural attractions to experience on any Tuscany vacation, flowing through Florence and Pisa and being an integral part of both cities’ histories, inspiring Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo.
The river also features many beautiful natural swimming spots, such as Masso delle Fanciulle. Here, peaceful landscapes and crystal-clear water provide year-round enjoyment.
The Arno
Since Florence’s foundation, the Arno has been its lifeblood. Swooping down from the towering Apennines, it divides Florence’s traditional historic center from Oltrarno but unifies Florentines and visitors in reverent admiration of its magnificent natural beauty.
From its source on Casentino’s Mount Falterona, the Arno flows southwest until it turns north near Arezzo and passes through Empoli, Florence, Pisa, and Val di Chiana’s plain before returning southward through Florence, where flood-control structures designed by Leonardo da Vinci still keep it from reaching the sea.
Discover Florence’s legendary river on our Florence Boat Tour, an unparalleled way to appreciate its magnificence. Meet your guide – an expert local professional dedicated exclusively to you and your party – at the Arno river banks boarding point, then board one of the Florentine gondolas called brochettes for an unforgettable sailing adventure!
The Magra
Tuscany’s rivers have long been an integral component of its culture and economy since medieval times, serving as transportation means and providing inspiration for artists over time. Now, they offer recreational activities to hikers and swimmers alike – just enjoy them today!
The Magra is a 62 km-long river running through Massa Carrara and La Spezia provinces as well as Pontremoli and Ameglia municipalities, creating valuable wetlands on its journey that provide shelter to both endangered and endemic species.
Kayaking or canoeing down the river in Tuscany is a fantastic way to discover this region, offering unspoiled areas and historic villages as you glide by, all while taking in stunning views of Florence from above. SUP can even provide an accessible yet fun experience that’s suitable for people of all mobility levels!
The Bisenzio
Campi Bisenzio may seem like an inconsequential desert, yet it was here that one of Tuscany’s most memorable brawls took place. A feud erupted between Guelfs, supporters of Pope Leo XIII, and Ghibellines who supported Emperor Aurelian; as a result, it resulted in many houses in Campi Bisenzio being demolished, including its small castle of Rocca Strozzi.
San Piero a Ponti is one of these devastated sites, and its layout still bears testament to its turbulent past. Originating as an area for soldiers returning from war to settle back home after battle, over time, San Piero a Ponti has grown into an eclectic neighborhood that retains much of its identity today.
At this stopover point, visitors can relax with a cup of coffee and sample zucchinis – traditional Tuscan sweets made of chocolate that add a decadent flair to wedding receptions or baptism ceremonies when served alongside Vin Santo, as well as castagnaccio (chestnut-based cake).
The Merge
Rivers that traverse Tuscany have played an essential part in shaping its cultural landscape. From Florence’s Arno River to Magra and Ombrone in the southern regions, these waterways have served as sources of livelihood for nearby communities while simultaneously inspiring many celebrated artists.
Tuscany offers plenty of tranquil spots and cooling-off spots along its rivers for those in search of relaxation or rejuvenation, from natural pools and wild parks in its north and south regions, as well as many rivers spanning both areas where one can swim in crisp, clear waters.
Natural pools offer a relaxing oasis in mountain landscapes, offering the opportunity for leisurely swimming experiences amidst lush surroundings. Polle di Malbacco in Alpi Apuane National Park provides such an experience; here, river pools provide swimming pleasure (although it can sometimes be cold).
The Elsa
Frozen introduces Elsa as the snow queen governing over a small northern kingdom. While she possesses excellent powers to create ice, she chooses not to utilize them – opting instead to hide behind an intimidating and reserved persona while harboring immense feelings of guilt over the death of both of her parents.
Idina Menzel’s brilliant portrayal of Elsa has received much acclaim, while “Let It Go,” her signature song from Frozen, serves as an anthem for empowerment and self-acceptance.
Elsa can do much more than freeze things; she also has the power to create new items simply by willpower. Elsa excels at geometry; her snow designs could even be considered advanced geometric concepts in comparison with their period.
Sentierelsa offers a fantastic walking path along a river, featuring stone-step river crossings, wooden bridges, small waterfalls, and plenty of natural shade from trees. Starting from Spugna Bridge (Ponte di Spugna) in Colle di Val d’Elsa village, it will lead you all the way upstream until Diborrato waterfall and San Marziale bridge – an easy drive from Siena but perfect for relaxing while taking in its magnificent Tuscan river scenery!
