SCOLTENNA GATHERING, ITALY, APRIL 2026
©Giorgio Schiavon
The annual Scoltenna River gathering, in its ninth edition this spring, brought together paddlers from across Italy for a key early-season whitewater event. Organized by the Bologna Kayak Club and Canoa Club “ASSI,” the meeting has become a reference point for the Italian paddling community, drawing kayakers, canoeists, and packrafters to one of the country’s most engaging river environments.
©Giorgio Schiavon
©Giorgio Schiavon
Originally initiated by river guide Massimo Sticca, who helped involve Canoa Club Bologna in the first edition, the event has grown steadily since its beginnings, when collaboration between two clubs for a shared gathering was still uncommon. Today, it stands as a well-established tradition that marks the start of the paddling season.
This year’s event brought together around 180 participants, split across two main sections of the river: an intermediate stretch and the more technical gorge section. Conditions allowed for consistent water levels, offering both approachable rapids for newer paddlers and more demanding features for experienced ones.
« the meeting has become a reference point for the Italian paddling community »
The diversity of participants was notable, with many first-time whitewater paddlers. The weekend especially stood out for many for the shared atmosphere on the riverbanks and in the water, where paddlers reconnected after the winter season and new relationships formed naturally.
Words & Photography: Giorgio Schiavon
