Val di Sole: Noce River Rafting Longest Family Descent

Summary

Whitewater rapids, castle views and laughter in Val di Sole

You’ll start beneath San Michele’s Castle with your guide showing you the ropes before tackling wild Noce River rapids together. There’s laughter, splashes, pine-scented air and safe spots for kids along this long family descent. Afterward you can relax by a private lake or grab a bite at the park bar—leaving you buzzing long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect my heart to pound before we even touched the water — but there’s something about standing at the foot of San Michele’s Castle, holding a paddle, with the Noce River rumbling below. Our guide Marco grinned and handed me a wetsuit (still smelled faintly like ozone cleaner, not river funk — which I weirdly appreciated). He ran through how to wedge our feet in the raft and what to yell if we fell out. I tried to repeat his Italian commands but mostly just made everyone laugh.

The first stretch from Cusiano was calmer than I thought — birds darted over our heads and you could smell pine from the banks. Then it got loud. The rapids between grades 2 and 3 hit fast; water slapped my face cold and sharp. Marco shouted “Avanti!” and we paddled hard, bouncing so much my teeth rattled. Somewhere near Mezzana — where they did that world championship circuit — he pointed out a boulder shaped like a bear (I still can’t see it). Kids in another raft waved as they were driven ahead by staff for safety; I liked that they didn’t push anyone too far.

By the time we reached Piano di Commezzadura, arms aching, sun poking through clouds, I realized I’d been grinning for most of it. The final stretch into Dimaro felt slower, or maybe I just didn’t want it to end. Back on land, someone handed me a warm towel and I could hear laughter drifting from the lakeside bar nearby. We wandered over for a drink — honestly, wet hair and all — because who cares after two hours on the river? I keep thinking about that feeling: nervous at first, then just…alive.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rafting adventure on Noce River

• Start briefing on paddle commands
• Begin rafting from Cusiano
• Navigate easiest river section
• Raft through rapids grades 2 to 4
• Children exit at Mezzana
• Children driven to Piano di Commezzadura
• Continue rafting to Piano di Commezzadura
• Finish rafting at Dimaro
• Relax at park, lake, bar, or restaurant

Top questions

How long is the Noce River rafting trip?

The rafting trip lasts about two hours from Cusiano to Dimaro.

Is this rafting tour suitable for children?

Yes, children ages 6-13 can join but are taken out before the toughest section for safety.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts in Cusiano at San Michele’s Castle foot and ends in Dimaro.

What equipment is provided for rafting?

You get a 3mm wetsuit, water jacket, life jacket, helmet, and paddle included.

Are there facilities to relax after rafting?

Yes, there’s a large park with a private lake plus a bar/restaurant where you can unwind post-activity.

Is transportation included in this tour?

Private transportation is included as part of your booking.

Can people with limited mobility join?

The activity is wheelchair accessible and has options for prams or strollers.

What happens if river conditions change?

If weather or water levels are unusual, guides may adjust which sections are navigated for safety.

What’s included

Your experience includes private transportation to and from the river starting point at Cusiano, all sanitized gear like wetsuits and helmets, expert guidance throughout your descent down Noce River in Val di Sole—and after your adventure you’re welcome to relax at their big park with its own lake or grab something at the bar-restaurant nearby before heading home.