Although its citizens are famously proponents of la dolce vita, a good life needn’t mean an idle one — Italy offers ample opportunities for adrenaline-seekers, whether it’s the entire reason for your trip, or the interval to a more leisurely itinerary. Inspiring natural backdrops and knowledgeable local operators abound, and there are options for every season and level of skill.

1. Kayak the Conero Riviera
Its vivid blue waters and ivory beaches backdropped by lush green scrubland, this is the little-known Le Marche region’s answer to the Caribbean. Some of the more remote stretches of this Adriatic fringe can be challenging to access by land, but relatively calm waters make kayaks the ideal way to get around.