Cycling the Italian Lakes

After arriving in Peschiera del Garda, enjoy an afternoon at leisure exploring the shores of Lake Garda or the towns fortress surrounded by the river Mincio. With beautiful ramparts and imposing doors, this small jewel of architecture is enclosed an incredible 16th century pentagonal wall. Overnight Enjoy Hotel Garda, Peschiera del Garda.  

There's a choice of routes today. The longer route follows a panoramic cycle path along Garda's shores to the town of Garda and its bustling promenade, whilst the shorter route ambles through the Lugana vineyards. Both routes take you to Desenzano and Sirmione, one of the most beautiful places on Lake Garda. Arrive in Brescia, a beautiful city rich in Roman and medieval remains, surmounted by the ancient castle. Overnight Hotel Master, Brescia.

Today's ride leads you into Franciacorta, an area known for excellent wines. Continue onto Rodengo Saiano, home to a Benedictine abbey where the monks still live. Pass near the castles of Passirano and Clusane and by the Sebino Nature Reserve, a protected area rich in water birds. You will end on the banks of the lovely Lake Iseo. Overnight Hotel Ulivi, Paratico.

Cycle along the Oglio river that comes out from Lake Iseo. You reach Grumello del Monte, a pretty village with the stone houses, then enter the beautiful medieval old town of Montello, all in stone. Alternatively, pedal along Iseo's eastern shores for a spectacular lakeside ride via Toline and Sale Marasino. Your day ends in Bergamo, the pearl of northern Italy, where you should arrive early enough to visit both the elegant lower town and the splendid upper town, accessible by funicular. Overnight Palazzo Santo Spirito, Bergamo.

Today takes you to an area of Lake Como called Lago di Lecco. The route weaves its way along the banks of the Adda river, passing the imposing medieval castle in Brivio. End the day in Garlate, on the lake of the same name. Overnight Hotel Best Western Nuovo, Garlate.

Today you ride past a variety of smaller lakes, Annone, Pusiano & Alserio, partially riding on dirt roads. The end of the path is the most beautiful as you arrive in Solzago and take the Passeggiata Voltiana (takes its name from Alessandro Volta, buried nearby). With an exciting descent first through the woods and then along a beautiful road, you will arrive in the centre of Como, then onto the shores of the beautiful lake. Overnight Hotel Tre Re, Como.

Your last ride goes along the lake surrounded by splendid villas, in particular Villa Olmo, in the direction of Cernobbio. You cross the border with Switzerland, then continue to the beautiful Lake Varese. Pedal along the clear waters of the Monate lake, before finally arriving in Ispra on Lake Maggiore, passing through the green Quassa cyclepath into Ranco; here are spectacular views of Lake Maggiore. Overnight Hotel Belvedere, Ranco.

After breakfast, leave Ranco and the beautiful Italian lakes.