NORTHERN LAKES

A simply beautiful cycling tour, exploring the Northern Italian lakes. The journey begins on the shores of the magnificent Lago Maggiore. From our lovely hotel, we visit the jewel-like Lago d'Orta in the east, get to know Lago Maggiore, ride along past Lago di Varese and finish with a couple of days in Bellagio, on stunning Lago di Como.

Riders will be fully supported over a variety of terrain with optional challenges fro those that wish, to push their limits. We've planned leisurely lakeshore spinning, undulating hills as we climb the ridges between the lakes, and the odd mountain top climb for those with the inclination.

A visit to Italy includes soaking up the history of each captivating location. You will have the opportunity to visit island palaces, historic villa gardens, cliff-side convents and more.

Food and wine in Italy is always excellent, and Lombardy, home of the Italian lakes, is no exception! We'll treat you to restaurants run by families over generations to a Michelin starred establishment.

Bike hire is included in this limited edition tour.

Andiamo!

FULL ITINERARY

DAY ONE SUN 5 MAY | WELCOME

Our first day commences with a group transfer from Malpensa airport to our stylish hotel on the shores of Lago Maggiore. On arrival, there will be a delicious, light Welcome lunch and Tour Introduction. After bike set-up, a short ride to the impressive Colossus of Arona.
DISTANCE | 30KM | 19MI
ELEVATION | 400M | 1300FT

DAY TWO MON 6 MAY | LAGO D'ORTA

A truly magnificent loop, over the ridge that separates Lago d'Orta from Lago Maggiore. We circumnavigate tiny Lago d'Orta, an absolute delight to the eye. Afternoon visit to Isola Bella and the Borromeo Palace, followed by dinner in long-running family restaurant by the lake.
DISTANCE | 75KM | 47MI
ELEVATION | 1200M | 3900FT

DAY THREE TUE 7 MAY | PIANCAVALLO

Great ride as we cruise along the shores of Lago Maggiore before the climb to Piancavallo and spectacular views across the lake. Awesome descent, and flat ride back to our hotel. Late afternoon visit to Lago d'Orta, Isola San Giulio and the 'walk of silence', followed by magnificent dinner at the Michelin Villa Crespi.
DISTANCE | 85KM | 53MI
ELEVATION | 1600M | 5250FT

DAY FOUR WED 8 MAY | VARESE

We take the ferry to Laveno and ride along the lake to the convent of Santa Caterina del Sasso. Explore this fascinating place of worship, clinging to the cliffs over Lago Maggiore. A choice of routes into Varese, taking the higher, more challenging road, or the lower, lake-side road. Lunch in Varese with a spot of shopping and then transfer by van to beautiful Bellagio.
DISTANCE | 60KM | 37MI
ELEVATION | 850M | 2800FT

DAY FIVE THU 9 MAY | LAGO DI COMO

Great ride as we cruise along the shores of Lake Como. Savour the views and admire the villas on this scenic loop of the northern end of the lake. A couple of ferry rides as we hop from shore to shore. Afternoon trip to Milano for the Giro d'Italia finale!
DISTANCE | 65KM | 40MI
ELEVATION | 900M | 2950FT

DAY SIX FRI 10 MAY | GHISALLO

Today's ride takes us to the Chapel of the Madonna del Ghisallo, the patron saint of cyclists, and a fitting finale for us. Sweeping views over Lake Como from this vantage point. It is here, every year, that the 'race of falling leaves' passes by, the Giro di Lombardia Pro cycling race. Option to follow the course to the Colma di Sormano, or straight downhill back to Bellagio for a memorable celebration dinner.
DISTANCE | 35KM OR 50KM | 22MI OR 31MI
ELEVATION | 800M OR 1250M | 2600FT OR 4100FT

DAY SEVEN SAT 11 MAY | GOODBYE

Morning transfer to Malpensa airport, or Milan for those staying on.
Time to say farewell, until next time.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

FLIGHTS | INSURANCES | BIKE HIRE | ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES | COFFEE STOPS | PERSONAL HOTEL EXPENSES | PRE- OR POST-TOUR ACCOMMODATION