Rio Lerca is a wonderful torrent for Canyoning in Liguria, a pearl, still little frequented compared to the beauty of the place. Some pools are frequented during the summer but few, even among the locals, know the entire route and make the complete descent. In a sunny and bright valley, a few kilometres from Genoa, we find a canyon where aesthetics and fun are magically combined. Although close to the coast, we have the impression of being isolated and far from the world. The route features a series of shallow waterfalls that offer alternating dips and natural slides in crystal-clear water pools.
Canyoning Rio Lerca, for thrill-seekers
Practicable from May to October, this canyon lends itself perfectly to both thrill-seekers and those who want to enjoy a day immersed in the beauty of nature.
Once the technical equipment has been distributed, a forty to fifty-minute walk awaits us, which is rather steep in the initial half-hour. To avoid excessive heat, we will try to set off early in the morning and tackle the climb quietly. At the start of the river you will receive all the necessary information on safety and progression in the torrent.
From the very first waterfall, a situation arises that will be repeated many times during the day, namely the choice between abseiling and plunging.
Spectacular diving pools and passages between narrow walls
The Rio Lerca stream, in its flow through the rocks, has sculpted them and created numerous pools of transparent water that invite you to dive in. The rock walls around us are never too high and offer the possibility of repeated dives from different heights. In the final part there are some spectacular passages between narrow rock faces where we find spectacular dives and rappels. An old dam marks the end of the descent. From here a ten-minute or so path takes us back to the car park.
The geographic location also makes Rio Lerca easily accessible from other regions such as Tuscany, Lombardy or Piedmont. It is therefore ideal for combining a weekend by the sea with a fun and exciting sporting activity such as canyoning or as an intermediate stage of a holiday. The optional nature of the higher dives means that even very heterogeneous groups can enjoy the descent each according to their own level and motivation.
If Rio Lerca has amused and motivated you, you can move on to the French border and discover Val Roya and its famous canyons.
