In the second of our two-part article on the top SUP destinations in Europe, we are focusing on great SUP vacations in and around the Mediterranean. In our last article, we wrote about why the Atlantic Ocean makes Portugal an amazing destination for paddle boarding. Now, we will look at some of the best places to take your inflatable stand-up paddleboard (ISUP) around the coastline of the Mediterranean Sea.
With the popularity of stand-up paddleboarding around the world, it’s great to see how Europe is embracing this exciting water sport. Many SUP communities in Europe offer vacations to explore caves around the Greek and Spanish coastlines, travel along waterways in major cities like Ljubljana in Slovenia or enjoy the calm, warm waters of the Mediterranean.
In this article, we will look at what Greece, Spain, Slovenia, and Italy have to offer.
Amazing SUP Destinations in Europe
It seems that Europe has so much to offer when it comes to amazing SUP vacations. You get to immerse yourself in the rich culture, enjoy great weather, and experience a range of paddleboarding adventures.
SUP Vacations in Greece
Greece offers amazing possibilities when it comes to being one of the top SUP destinations in Europe. With over 8,000 miles of coastline, 6,000 islands, 63 lakes, and 27 rivers to choose from, you are certainly not spoilt for choice.
Some people choose to explore the Greek islands with just their ISUP, a tent, and necessary provisions. This gives SUP enthusiasts the chance to see the country from a whole new perspective and keep away from the typical “tourist” spots.
Also, Greece plays host to a number of SUP competitions like the Corinth Canal Paddle Crossing, which is the straightest 6km SUP race in the world. Around the island of Crete, you can also take part in open sea races, relay races, and 3km flat water technical races.
Slovenia as a SUP Destination
Slovenia is a surprising destination for paddle lovers and there is amazing enthusiasm in the country for the sport.
One of the most interesting paddle experiences in Slovenia must be paddling along the Ljubljanica River through the capital of Slovenia. This provides you with unique views of the ancient city while you check out Ljubljana castle and the dragons that protect the river.
If you prefer to get away from the hustle and bustle of a large city, Slovenia also offers SUP vacations in pristine Alpine lakes, traveling along rivers that have crystal clear water, and enjoying the warm Adriatic sea.
SUP Vacations in Spain
Spain has always been a popular tourist destination, and it is becoming ever increasingly popular with paddlers.
Some of the most exciting SUP vacations in Spain are in and around the Spanish islands in the Mediterranean Sea. For example, Majorca, Menorca, and Mallorca all have rugged coastlines where you can explore caves on your Stand Up Paddleboard and take in the breath-taking scenery.
If you prefer combining a city vacation with your SUP, then Sevilla is a popular destination. You can paddle up the Guadalquivir River and take in the spectacular sights along the banks of the historic river.
SUP in Italy
There are almost endless possibilities for enjoying a SUP vacation in Italy. Most of the destinations in Italy for Stand-Up Paddling are in the north of the country with one or two on the island of Sardinia.
From beautiful beaches to pristine lakes, and beautiful inland rivers, there is certainly many SUP activities to choose from in Italy. For example, many paddlers head to the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Cinque Terre National Park. Here you can enjoy paddling in the open sea and ride the large waves, or you can take a leisurely paddle along the shoreline and admire the ancient villages.
Of course, no SUP trip to Italy would be complete without spending time in Venice, paddling alongside the famous gondolas that have made this city famous.