The straits of coachness: the Tuscan canyon dug from the Lima stream where you can rafting … in the blue lagoon

In the municipality of Bagni di Lucca, along the Val di Lima, there is a stretch of narrow river between limestone walls: they are the Tight closure. A natural canyon, dug over the centuries by the Lima stream, which has now become one of the reference points for those looking for nature and outdoor activities in Tuscany.

The Lima stream and the stone gorges

The file, tributary of the Serchio, flows here with more strength than usual. At its reach both the waters that come from the dissolution of the Apennine snow and some underground sources contribute. The result is a stretch of river rich in currents, jumps and natural pools, where the limestone rock has been eroded over time to form real gorges.

There is no shortage of stories and legends, such as that of the Dragon Regolo or the “doors of hell” hidden under the rocks. But today this place attracts more fans of water sports than mysteries hunters.

The legend of the Dragon Regolo and the history of the Black Bridge

According to the local tradition, in the caves under the narrow closet – where Canyon Park stands today – would hide Regulationan winged dragon who on flood nights and with the strong wind made his roars heard. More likely, it was the sound of the river in flood, explained with the imagination to mask the fear of nature that in these places has always been powerful and unpredictable.

The Black bridgewhich dominates the canyon 20 meters high, has no dark origins as the name could suggest. In the Roman era it was simply the “minor” bridge, as opposed to the neighbor Ponte Maggiothe “major”. Hence the original names: Pons Minor And Pons Major.

Its height is far from random: during historical floods the water level went up to touch the arch, leaving just one meter of margin. With a scope that can also come to 1,000 cubic meters per secondit is not to be surprised if it is still standing: it is the concrete proof of the effectiveness of Roman, solid and far -sighted engineering.

Rafting, canyoning, water trekking

The narrow tightness are ideal for those who want to practice river sports. You can choose between rafting, canyoning, Aquatrekking, Sup And kayakdepending on the level of preparation. Some excursions start directly from local operators active in the area, and are also suitable for those who are at the first experience.

There is also a adventure park With suspended routes and Ziplines, offering a view from above on the canyon, Canyon Park. For those who have no interest in adrenaline, it is possible to relax in a small Sassi beach and bathe in the so -called Blue lagoona natural pool with clear and fresh water, accessible on foot.

In short, there is no shortage of activities, and the beauty is that everyone can live this corner of Tuscany as they prefer, without having to adapt to a single type of experience. There are those who choose to cross the canyon doing raftingtaking advantage of the rapids of the Lima torrent and making itself dragged by the current between narrow curves and passages dug into the rock. Others opt for the canyoningfollowing the course of water on foot, between jumps, dives and natural slides, or for theAquatrekkinga less extreme but equally engaging activity, where you literally walk inside the river, immersed up to life, between narrow walls and transparent water.

Those who do not want to challenge the current can remain on the surface, with one Passed in kayak or in Supthe paddle board on which it reopens standing, enjoying the landscape from a more quiet but still immersive perspective.

There is also no lack of space for those who simply want to lie in the sun and enjoy the sound of the water that flows. A small Sassi Bianchi beacheasily accessible, leads to the so -called Blue lagoon: a puddle of natural water with blue reflections, clear and deep at the right point to dive or remain in spite. No artificial structures, no swimming pool built: only clean water, freshness and silence. Even in the height of summer, here the environment remains authentic, with the nature that commands, and whoever arrives do so knowing that he will find something true, not built for pleasure at all costs.

True, non -artificial nature

Unlike many places transformed into tourist attractions, the straits of coachness maintain a certain degree of naturalness. There are no bars, deck chairs or factories. If you want to live them, you have to prepare yourself: excursion shoes, water, light backpack. No useless plastic or beach equipment.

Those who arrive in the summer find refrigerator, but do not expect a swimming pool. Here the water is cold, it flows fast and the space is little: better to arrive soon or avoid weekends, especially in August.

How to get there

The narrow can be easily reached in the car, following the signs for Bagni di Lucca and then for coaching. There is a path that starts from the street and descends towards the river. It is not long, but it can be slippery. In the area there are also campsites and farmhouses for those who want to stop several days.

To know before going:

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