Boss of Valsesia
Edition 2026 Music Nature Mountain

Boss of Valsesia

The international extreme kayaking challenge on the Sesia and Sermenza rivers

Scopa — Vercelli (002)
Dates 08 May โ€” 10 May 2026
Location Scopa (002)
Prices Free
Status Finished

About Boss of Valsesia

Boss of Valsesia is the premier extreme kayaking festival that transforms the upper Valsesia region, in the heart of the Vercelli province, into Italy's white-water sports capital every spring. Spanning three days, the event features races, an expo, on-water trials, music, and festivities along the Sesia River and Sermenza Creek, across the towns of Scopa, Balmuccia, and Scopello. This international competition attracts top-ranked paddlers and enthusiasts from across Europe to one of Piedmont's most spectacular valleys.

Extreme kayaking in the heart of Valsesia

Boss of Valsesia is much more than just a race: it is the largest white-water kayaking festival held in the spring in upper Valsesia, spanning the towns of Scopa, Balmuccia, and Scopello in the province of Vercelli, nestled in the heart of the alpine Piedmont. For three days, the Sesia River and Sermenza Creek become the stage for an international competition that tests the courage, technique, and endurance of the world's best extreme kayakers.

An international showcase for Valsesia

Organized by Bosskayak in partnership with Monrosa Rafting, with the support of the municipalities of Scopa, Balmuccia, Pila, and Scopello, and the Unione Montana dei Comuni della Valsesia, the event draws paddlers from dozens of nations and athletes from official world-circuit teams. The festival promotes Valsesia as a premier destination for white-water sports, strengthening the region's reputation both nationally and internationally.

Three days of water, sport, and celebration

The program blends competition with fun: beyond the main race, the weekend features an expo area with industry-leading brands, on-water testing of the latest kayak models, guided free-flowing descents open to all levels, and the first-ever Valsesia Packraft Meet-Up. Live music is a constant throughout the event, culminating in the big Saturday night Bosskayak Season Party, complete with a raffle and awards ceremony.

The allure of the Sesia

For decades, the Sesia River has been one of Europe's most beloved destinations for rafting, hydrospeed, and kayaking enthusiasts, thanks to its rapids and spectacular gorges set against the backdrop of the Monte Rosa massif. The final of the Boss of Valsesia takes place within the evocative gorges of the Sermenza Creek, offering a unique spectacle for both athletes and spectators. For those visiting the area, the event is also the perfect opportunity to explore the valley's charming villages and enjoy traditional Piedmontese cuisine served along the route.

Boss of Valsesia โ€” edition 2026

The 2026 edition of the Boss of Valsesia took place from May 8th to 10th along the Sesia River and Sermenza Creek, between Scopa and Balmuccia. The international extreme kayaking race, held on Saturday, May 9th, attracted top-ranked paddlers and athletes from dozens of nations, confirming Valsesia as Italy's white-water sports capital.

The 2026 edition confirmed the winning formula of three days dedicated to white-water kayaking in upper Valsesia. The heart of the event was the race on Saturday, May 9th, held on the stretch of the Sesia River between Scopa and Balmuccia, with the final taking place in the gorges of the Sermenza Creek. Alongside the competition, the weekend offered exhibition stands, on-water trials, guided free-flowing descents, and festive moments.

The event concluded with a positive outcome and praise for the organizers, Bosskayak and Monrosa Rafting, supported by the municipalities of Scopa, Balmuccia, Pila, and Scopello, and the Unione Montana dei Comuni della Valsesia.

Programme Boss of Valsesia 2026

Friday, May 8

  • Event opening and setup of the expo area along the river
  • On-water trials and guided free-flowing descents open to all levels

Saturday, May 9

  • International extreme kayaking race on the Sesia stretch between Scopa and Balmuccia, with the final in the Sermenza gorges
  • Exhibition stands and testing of the latest kayak models
  • In the evening: Bosskayak Season Party with raffle and awards ceremony

Sunday, May 10

  • First Valsesia Packraft Meet-Up
  • Free-flowing descents and on-water activities

Throughout the weekend: live music, traditional cuisine, and industry stands along the route.

Highlights Boss of Valsesia 2026

International race on Saturday, May 9th with the final in the Sermenza gorges; Bosskayak Season Party on Saturday night with raffle and awards; first Valsesia Packraft Meet-Up; athletes from official teams representing dozens of nations.

Prices Boss of Valsesia 2026

Free access to expo areas and stands. Free camping available at Monrosa Rafting in Balmuccia. For race and workshop registration fees, please consult the official website.

Practical information — Boss of Valsesia

Getting there

Scopa and Balmuccia are located in upper Valsesia, in the province of Vercelli. By car, they can be reached via the A26 motorway (exit Romagnano Sesia/Ghemme) by following the SS299 Valsesia road towards Alagna Valsesia. The nearest train station is Varallo Sesia, which is connected to Novara.

Where to stay

Free camping is available at Monrosa Rafting in Balmuccia, in addition to various hostels and guesthouses in the valley. Early booking is highly recommended.

Tips

The event is held outdoors along the river; comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear are recommended. Access to the expo areas and stands is free. For race and workshop registration, please consult the official website.

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Where does it take place โ€” Boss of Valsesia

Fiume Sesia e torrente Sermenza

Contact Boss of Valsesia

Boss of Valsesia in brief

Music Nature Mountain Nautical Playful Sport Outdoor Participatory International Vercelli

History of Boss of Valsesia