Cycling Tour of Lombardy

Upon landing at Milan airport, you’ll be whisked away to the enchanting city of Bergamo. Settle into your centrally located hotel, where you’ll be fitted with your bike, ensuring the perfect companion for your journey. Enjoy the evening with a delightful dinner at one of Bergamo’s finest trattorias, offering a taste of local cuisine and hospitality.

Journey from Bergamo’s urban charm, through the idyllic countryside. Traverse an old railway-turned-scenic bike path, dotted with historic tunnels. The route offers a peaceful ride, free from motor traffic, and rich in historical ambience. Departing from San Giovanni Bianco, the climb becomes more challenging, ascending through a dramatic canyon to reach the summit of Passo Culmine di San Pietro at 1280 meters.

Embark on a ride from the tranquillity of Valsassina, descending smoothly to Primaluna. The day’s highlight is the ascent of Passo Esine Lario, a breathtaking climb offering vistas over the Valsassina valley and up to Lake Como. At the summit, indulge in well-deserved rest before a thrilling descent to the serene village of Varenna. Here, enjoy the charm of this less-traveled gem with a leisurely coffee or ice cream by the lake.

On today’s journey, depart from your picturesque hotel in Colico Olgiasca and venture towards the northern shores of the lake. The route takes you along the Adda River, where its icy waters meet the lake, creating a stunning natural canvas. Follow a serene bike path through lush fields, leading to the medieval city of Morbegno. Enjoy a cappuccino in the central market square, surrounded by the magnificence of the Alps. Continuing your ride, cross the Adda and head southwest back to the lakeshore. A challenging yet rewarding 10km ascent awaits along the lake, offering expansive views of the water.

The journey then follows a 35km lakeside route, weaving through peaceful villages and showcasing Lake Como’s mesmerizing beauty. In Menaggio, 37km in, the adventure leads onto a scenic cycle lane connecting Lake Como to Lake Lugano, once a vital railway line. Pause in Porlezza for a delightful treat at Gelateria Visconti before tackling an 8km ascent to Pellio Intelvi, where breathtaking panoramic views await. Discover the secluded village of Erbonne, once a haven for smugglers, now home to a unique museum documenting its contraband history.

Commence a serene journey from San Fedele through Val Intelvi, a valley that whispers tales of a bygone era of smuggling, now a tranquil haven bordered by Switzerland and Italy. Savour the quiet roads leading to the climax at Sighignola, where a 5.3km climb unveils the ‘Balcone d’Italia,’ offering a mesmerizing 360-degree panorama of Lake Lugano and the Swiss Alps. Descend to Lanzo, then trace the historic border crossing of Arogno into Switzerland, cycling alongside Lake Lugano. The day’s route culminates with an ascent to the quaint hamlet of Scudellate, a secluded alpine paradise with a mere 22 inhabitants, nestled among lush woods and meadows.

Embrace the final leg of your scenic journey, starting with a nostalgic farewell to Scudellate, a remote gem of tranquillity. Relish an 18km descent, a familiar yet enchanting path back to the azure embrace of Lake Como. As you pedal through timeless villages along the lake, absorb the vibrant tapestry of life here, rich with tales of hunting, fishing, farming, and smuggling. In Menaggio, board a ferry for a short, picturesque crossing to the celebrated Bellagio. This interlude on the water offers a splendid opportunity for capturing the lake’s beauty in photographs. Once ashore, challenge yourself with a final climb to the Ghisallo, paying homage to the cycling museum, before a rewarding descent back to Bellagio, where Lake Como bids a memorable adieu.

As the sun rises over Bellagio, it’s time to bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Lake Como. Depart with cherished memories of the roads travelled, the history embraced, and the timeless beauty of Italy’s lakes and mountains. Carry the spirit of adventure and the essence of Italy in your heart as you journey onwards.