Costa Cruises is always focused on bringing new unique experiences and this summer the Italian cruise line is introducing a new activity: Urban Nordic Walking.
There are very few sporting activities that can boast the same features as Urban Nordic Walking, a complete, healthy and natural activity suitable for everyone. The activity does not require any particular athletic preparation and offers great benefits as it is effective for weight loss and posture, and promotes blood and respiratory circulation.
Urban Nordic Walking als allows to combine the physical exercise and the benefits of Nordic walking with the curiosity to visit and to learn about the history, art and culture of a city.
This summer, guests traveling aboard Costa Fascinosa will have a chance to enjoy this special activity as part of their cruise, helping them to restore their physical and mental balance.
Following the instructions given by qualified Costa Cruises staff, they will gradually learn to make correct use of the poles and adopt the correct posture and biomechanical approach to the walk, quickly mastering the movements. Each participant will be supplied with professional poles, plus a tasty snack and energy drink, so they can truly enjoy the excursion.
In addition to guaranteeing health benefits, the urban trekking excursions are a new way to practice responsible and sustainable tourism, including pleasant walks and exciting trails, discovering unmissable natural wonders, majestic cities of art and breathtaking views.
The Urban Nordic Walking experience is offered in five destinations on board Costa Fascinosa:
- Naples – starting from the picturesque harbor, the walk leads to Porta San Gennaro, the oldest gate to the Vesuvian city, and continues into the Borgo dei Vergini district, famous for its many fabulous and symbolic Neapolitan Baroque monuments. Passing through the Rione Sanità area, founded in the 16th century, the tour ends at the verdant Royal Wood of Capodimonte.
- Palermo – walking along the city’s narrow streets, among the colorful stalls of the Vucciria market, you’ll pass by the marble sculpture of the Genius of Palermo at the Garraffo, continuing to the Quattro Canti. The third and fourth stops along the route are Palazzo Pretorio and the church of Saint Catherine, with its stunning late Renaissance style façade. After walking through the Kalsa quarter, you’ll enter the wonderful gardens of Villa Giulia and then end the excursion walking along the Cala, an arched seafront promenade that surrounds to the most ancient port of Palermo.
- Ibiza – the “Nordic” walk starts on the north side of the port, crossing the exclusive Botafoc Marina to reach Talamanca and its marvellously white sand. Walking along the beach, you’ll reach Cap Martinet, along slightly steep paths, from which you can enjoy a spectacular view. The last stop is Cala Tranquila, the perfect destination for anyone wanting to relax away from the crowd;
- Palma de Mallorca – having reached the starting point, a brisk 3-kilometer walk leads up to Bellver Castle, 112 meters above sea level, one of the greatest examples of Gothic civil architecture in Majorca. After following the circular path around the castle, it’s back down to sea level, passing through the green areas of the city and finishing in the heart of the historic center.
- Barcelona – starting from the Grec Gardens, the tour climbs up the Montjuïc hill, which stands 177 meters high and offers a wonderful view of Barcelona. Passing through Plaza de España, the tour continues along the most beautiful streets of the city, finally reaching the splendid Mirador del Alcalde viewpoint.
All that remains is to grab your Nordic Walking sticks and set off on a cruise with Costa Fascinosa.