A Dip in the Arno River

Clear, cool fresh water: here in Arezzo, you can tell it like it is. Petrarca knew well that in this Land of Arezzo wonders never cease, especially when it comes to immersing yourself in nature.

In the Casentino Valley there are many stretches of the river where you can stop to swim, far away from the chaos of the seaside beaches. Here, tranquility reigns supreme and the waterways supply lots of breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences. Starting from Stia, you can head to the river park called “Canto alla Rana” where you can take a swim in the river.  The water sources are nearby so these waters are very pure and have an intense green color that makes it look like a spectacular emerald pool. The “Casentino Valley Sea” is located along the Corsalone River in the municipality of Bibbiena. There you can visit the  “Bocca di Lupo,” where the river forms natural pools that have been carved into the rock and create a spectacular water dance.

The famous “Red Bridge” or Ponte Rosso is also nearby. Here you can watch young men and women dare each other to take the plunge and get a rush of adrenaline. At Strada there is the area called “Le Fontanelle” which is famous for its clear water. This spot is easily accessible and offers convenient parking. In the small hamlet of Gello, near Chiusi della Verna, among its trees and bushes there are natural mountain pools where you can stop for a refreshing picnic in the woods.

In the Arezzo Valdarno area of Loro Ciuffenna, there is the famous “Pozzone.”  This is a large natural swimming pool, not far from the village below a bridge. It’s not difficult to reach this spot but the real challenge is not the location but the temperature of the water. There are not many daredevils who are willing to plunge into the peaceful, ice-cold water.

The  beaches of the Arno river and other rivers in the Arezzo area allow you to escape from the summer heat. These spots offer a place to relax in the wild, especially after a morning spent discovering the treasures of the towns of art within this valley. It’s a golden opportunity to observe the animals of the forest in their natural habitats and encounter those who dominate the river: fish, shrimp and crabs.