Canoes, pedal boats and SUPs are the new, extremely silent and ecological protagonists of Lake Orta.

Standing upright and on firm legs, knees slightly bent and with a safe paddle grip, lace tied at the ankle and looking forward. And of course energy to expend! I am ready for a SUP session on the beautiful waters of my favorite lake.

For those who do not know it yet, SUP is the acronym of Stand Up Paddling, a sporting activity that is spreading more and more rapidly even in the basin of Lake Orta, thanks to the ability to easily rent suitable boards.

My friend Sanne, accustomed to practicing this discipline along the beautiful Dutch canals, told me this: learning the technique is not difficult, a good dose of balance and a certain capacity for coordination are enough. And the benefits of this sport that comes from the beaches of the Pacific are several, in fact, paddling with joy helps to shape the body and free the mind.

The feeling of gliding gently on the lake's surface in the silence of nature is really exciting.

And then, of course, some falling into the water is always possible, but I assure you, it is a fun and refreshing break in the beautiful summer days! If you prefer to try paddle boarding in mid-season, I recommend wearing a wetsuit, just like real surfers do.

While I am paddling on the water, regenerated by the breeze and by the spray, I cross the path of some "tenants" of the lake: a delightful family of ducklings and some fish that surface. But also a couple of canoeists who train tenaciously under the guidance of their instructor.

Maybe next time I'll also rent a canoe (there are also four place canoes, suitable for a family excursion) or a pedal boat.

This is the best way to experience the lake, away from the roar of vacationers and in the great tranquility of nature.

N.B.
For information on rentals, don't hesitate to ask at the La Darbia reception!