Rio Simon canyoning in Italy is our favorite canyon — if you ask us, it’s the one we’ll mention without even thinking. It’s one of the longest and most impressive canyons near Bovec, and definitely a highlight for anyone looking for a full-day canyoning experience. If you already enjoy canyoning, this is one you don’t want to miss.

We start early in the morning at our base in Soča (Bovec), where you receive all the necessary equipment and a short briefing. From there, we drive about an hour into Italy, through the beautiful Raccolana Valley. Along the way, we pass several other canyons — a nice introduction to this well-known canyoning area just across the border.

Near the small village of Roveredo, we leave the car and start a 1.5-hour hike to the entrance. It’s not a short approach, but it’s part of what makes this canyon feel more remote and special.

The canyon starts straight away with a narrow section, where you’ll find waterfalls up to 15 meters and longer swimming sections in clear emerald water. After this first part, the canyon opens up briefly before narrowing again into the most impressive section of Rio Simon. High walls rise above you, creating a completely different atmosphere. Here, you’ll also have the option to do jumps up to 10 meters.

After a short walk, we reach the final section, starting with the well-known 30-meter waterfall called “Cathedral.” From there, the canyon continues with a series of beautiful jumps into deep pools — a perfect finish to a full day in the canyon.

The whole experience takes around 6 hours and is one of the best options if you’re looking for a longer canyoning trip near Bovec or something a bit more complete than the classic half-day routes.

At the end of the day, we head back to Soča — a bit tired, but with that good feeling after a proper day out.