COST: €160 per person

Panoramic Lake Views including Lake Lugano-from Codogna-Cardano CO, Italy

• Distance: 28 km
• 3 Hours 30 Min
• Authentic Italian Villages

This fantastic circular route delivers it all: hidden villages, rustic charm, spectacular lake views, quiet mountain roads to cycle, and a stop on Lake Lugano.

Leaving busy Lake Como behind, we wind our way into the Val Sanagra nature reserve – lying just above Menaggio, it is one of the lake’s best-kept secrets and a favourite meeting place with the locals that stop for a drink or chat.

Step back in time as you pass evocative stone houses and old water mills. Cycle further into the mountains, riding through the historic villages of Velzo and Naggio, surrounded by grape vines and grassy green fields.

Explore charming village squares untouched by time. A glorious downhill ride including sections of a medieval road guides us onto the shores of Lake Lugano via the old town centre of Porlezza which is lined with quaint specialty food shops. In the summer months you’ll have time for a swim in the lake – year round it’s the perfect spot for an ice-cream or aperitivo.

Follow the old railway line that once connected the two lakes and is now a pretty cycle path, passing tranquil Lake Piano along the way. We arrive back in the Renaissance hamlet of Cardano after a morning spent weaving together the varied and surprising scenery around Lake Como.

SUITABLE FOR:

• Minimum height 150cm
• Minimum age 14 years
• Participants over 60 need to be regular, confident riders on mixed terrain.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments or injuries.

Category 1 difficulty:

Familiarity with a geared bicycle required.

General fitness, agility, balance and confidence required. The ride is a mini adventure with short stretches of nontechnical gravel road, narrow village paths, uphills and downhills.

OPTIONAL EXTRA:

• Service on request only.
• Menaggio ferry station pick up – 10 mins before the tour.

PLEASE BRING:

• Suitable activewear: no long skirts or loose-fitting pants; flat soled shoes; no sandals permitted
• In summer: swimming costume optional
• In early spring or autumn: gloves and a buff/neck warmer recommended
• Small 500ml bottles of water

INCLUDED:

• Certified English-speaking mountain bike guide
• Cube cross-country E-bike Helmet
• Fitted travel bag for personal belongings
• Rain jackets and helmet protectors provided in case of showers

NOT INCLUDED:

• Drinks and snacks during stops

COST: €160 per person

From Codogna- Cardano CO, Italy

• Distance: 30 km. (This ride can be personalised on request to avoid technical gravel section )
• 3 Hours 30 Min

Our destinations today are where you dream of going when you’re on the water looking up at the lake cliffs.

Now you can say you’ve found the way there!

People always wonder how you reach those churches perched right on the edge of the steep mountain cliffs. They hold so much wonder and amazement that it is even possible to build there. Explore two ultimate panoramas of the lake largely unknown to tourists. Pedal along the mountain road above Menaggio until you reach the quaint hamlet of Breglia. The pure air and peace here attract hundreds of fireflies during the summer months which at night light up the gravel paths we’ll be cycling today – to a very humble white chapel with a huge view. It’s impossible not to be moved by the magic.

Head back down through the forest via an old mule track which requires off-road downhill cycling experience.

Cycle a section of the old railway line that once connected Lake Como to Lake Lugano, surrounded by forests, streams and small cascades.

At our next stop you will discover a series of defense lines built but never used, and get the chance to walk in the original WW1 trenches protecting some of the most incredible views of the lake. You won’t be disappointed!

SUITABLE FOR:

• Minimum height 150cm
• Minimum age 15 years
• Not suitable for novice cyclists, pregnant women or people with mobility inpairments or injuries.

Category 3 difficulty:

• Technical off-road downhill cycling experience required.
• The ride also includes sustained uphills.

PLEASE BRING:

• Sun protection
• Rain protection (as a precaution)
• If booking in early spring or autumn we recommend gloves and a buff/neck warmer.
• Flat soled sports shoes (NO SANDALS or open shoes permitted)
• Snacks (optional)
• Small 500ml water bottles

INCLUDED:

• Certified English speaking mountain bike guide
• Cross-country E-bike Helmet
• Fitted travel bag for personal belongings
• 1x 500ml bottle of mineral water

NOT INCLUDED:

• Drinks and snacks during stops

IMPORTANT:

• Off-road downhill cycling experience is required.
• Bikes are suitable for participants with a minimum height of 155 cm
• Minimum age of 15 years with the ability to manage a bike of roughly 22kg.

COST: €240

A relaxing day of cycling the Italian side of Lake Lugano exploring hilltop villages, rock pools and panoramic churches.

• From Codogna-Cardano CO, Italy
• 5 Hours
• Distance: 47 km Total elevation: 842 mt uphill; 842 mt downhill

This tour is perfect for anyone wanting to explore a little further off the tourist track but not wanting to commit to too many kilometers or uphills.

Our destination is the Valsolda – the valley that leads to the Swiss town of Lugano. It is a rather forgotten valley that is full of hidden gems. On our list today is the Santuario della Caravina, offering a spectacular balcony over Lake Lugano. Ride up cobbled walkways to the church entrance, and follow scenic verdant roads as you head to the village of Castello.

Perched on a hilltop, it is one of the single best examples of an ancient Italian mountain village.

The church of San Martino is affectionately referred to as the Sistine Chapel of Lombardy for it’s beautifully frescoed dome.

The lake views will not disappoint either. The day would not be complete without dipping your feet in the crystal clear water of some rock pools you find along the way. Make a lunch stop in an atmospheric local restaurant before hitting the beach of Lake Lugano where you can enjoy the expansive views of the water and mountains.

All that’s left to do is finish with an easy ride home along what was the railway line that connected the two lakes, following green fields, stables and semiabandoned villages all the way back to Cardano.

Set Lunch Menu

Starter of the day

Pasta of the day

Water, soft drinks and coffee included

Any items not included in the set menu or variations to the menu to be paid directly at the restaurant.

Food allergies and intolerances accomodated only if comunicated in advance.

SUITABLE FOR:

• Minimum height 150cm
• Minimum age 15 years.
• Not suitable for pregnant. women or people with mobility inpairments or injuries.
• General fitness and confidence on a geared bike are required.

Category 2 difficulty:

• Not suitable for novice and less confident riders.
• Some experience on a geared bike on a fully day tour is required.
• This ride is a mini adventure with non-technical uphills and downhills and simple gravel
  

  roads.

OPTIONAL EXTRA:

• Service on request only.

PLEASE BRING:

• Sun Protection
• Rain/wind protection (as a precaution)
• If booking in early spring or autumn we recommend gloves and a buff/neck warmer.
• Flat soled shoes (NO SANDALS or open shoes permitted)
• Suitable cycling clothes
• Snacks (optional)

INCLUDED:

• Certified English-speaking
• mountain bike guide
• Cube cross-country E-bike
• Helmet
• Rear fitted bag for personal belongings
• 1x 500ml bottle of mineral water
• Set menu lunch

IMPORTANT:

• Bikes are suitable for participants with a minimum height of 155 cm;
• Minimum age of 15 years with the ability to manage a bike of roughly 22kg

COST: €250

• 6 hours
• Distance: 60 km. Total elevation: 942 mt uphill; 942 mt downhill.
• From Codogna-Cardano CO, Italy

Cycle the old railway line 2 natural parks; 3 lakes; 4 panoramic churches and the ultimate selection of lake villages and mountain hamlets.

This tour is an absolute celebration of Lake Como’s diversity.

Starting from the little-known Renaissance hamlet of Cardano, just above Menaggio, take the scenic cycle path through the mountains bordering the Val Sanagra. This historical route was originally a railway line that connected Lake Como to Lake Lugano.

Cycling through the pretty village of Griante, off the tourist track, you get your first glimpse of the charming courtyards, cobbled paths, historic villas and captivating lake views that characterise this area. Winding through the Tremezzina, you will have the chance to take in the views of the Comacina Island, Villa Margherita, Villa Carlotta, Villa Sola Cabiati and the Villa Balbiano and Balbianello of movie fame. Ride around the main square of Lenno and weave through sections of the ‘Greenway’ path.

There is no shortage of tales to tell and history to relive – from Mussolini to Verdi; partisans hiding in the trenches above Menaggio to speed boat designers.

Lunch is a moment to relax in a mountain restaurant and enjoy the open fields and spectacular views of the lake before a slow cycle through two charming little mountain villages revealing the rustic charm and simplicity that lies behind the main lake road.

Head down onto the beach of Lake Lugano where you reconnect with the cycle path. We complete this last section of the old railway line on our way home – an easy cycle to wind down after a perfect day.

This is Lake Como in it’s entirety – and it is spectacular!

Set menu lunch

• Starter: platter of mixed cold cuts and local cheeses accompanied by local honey and preserves.
• Main: roast of the day with sides (vegetables of the day or salad)
• Water, coffee and a glass of wine or beer or soft drink
• Any items not included in the set menu or variations to the menu to be paid directly at the restaurant

Food allergies and intolerances accomodated only if communicated in

SUITABLE FOR:

• Minimum height 150cm
• Minimum age 15 years
• Not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments or injuries.

Category 2 difficulty:

• Not suitable for less confident or novice riders.
• Confident on a geared bicycle on mixed terrain is required.
• This is a mini adventure with uphills, downhills, and a section of non-technical gravel and a few tight turns in small villages.
• Some experience with full day bike tours is recommended.

OPTIONAL EXTRA:

• Service on request only.
• Menaggio ferry station pick up – 10 mins before the tour. 

PLEASE BRING:

• Sun protection
• Rain/wind protection (as a precaution)
• If booking in early spring or autumn we recommend gloves and a buff/neck warmer.
• Flat soled shoes – NO SANDALS or open shoes permitted
• Snacks (optional)

INCLUDED:

• Certified mountain bike guide
• Cube cross-country E-bike
• Helmet
• Rear fitted bag for personal belongings
• 1x 500ml bottle of mineral water
• Set menu

IMPORTANT:

• Bikes are suitable for participants with a minimum height of 155 cm
• minimum age of 15 years with the ability to manage a bike of roughly 22kg

COST: €250

• 6 hours
• Distance: 60 km. Total elevation: 1030 mt uphill; 1030 mt downhill
• From Codogna-Cardano CO, Italy

Special Mountain Sanctuary

Put your e-bike to the test as we easily head up forested mountain roads dotted with charming stone churches and special views of Lake Lugano.

An excellent tour to experience the full benefit or your e-bike and explore the beautiful mountains of this area. The narrow Intelvi valley separates Lake Como from Lake Lugano.

It was once home to a number of important artistic families, and holds many other secrets along it’s quiet roads. We pass by mountain hamlets steeped in history and home to surprising architectural gems totally untouched by mass tourism. The beauty of the mountains, the views, and the

atmosphere of bygone times transport you far from the bustling lakefront villages of Lake Como.

Leaving along a quiet cycle path, we veer onto the southern banks of Lake Lugano. From here our ascent begins towards the Sanctuary of San Pancrazio, the unexpected beauty of this little-known place of worship never fails to impress visitors.

We make a special effort to have the sanctuary opened for you.

Cycling the best secondary roads of the valley is pure enjoyment with your ebike.

We reach our ‘agriturismo’ at an altitube of roughly 1000m. This typical local mountain restaurant offers delicious dishes using their own produce and is surrounded by mountain pastures. Fairytale lake views are our backdrop for the return home as we cycle down the mountain back to Cardano.

Set Lunch Menu

• Pasta of the day
• Main course of local barbecued meat
• Dessert
• Water, soft drinks and coffee included
• Any items not included in the set menu or variations to the menu to be paid directly at the restaurant

Food preferences, allergies, and intolerances accomodated only if communicated in advance

SUITABLE FOR:

• Minimum height 150cm;
• Minimum age 15 years.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments or injuries.

Category 3 difficulty:

• Not suitable for less confident or novice riders. The ride includes sustained uphills requiring good general fitness, stamina and some experience with fullday bike  tours.
• You need to be confident on a geared bicycle on mixed terrain.
• This is a mini adventure with uphills, downhills, and a section of non-technical gravel.

OPTIONAL EXTRA:

• Service on request only.

PLEASE BRING:

• Sun Protection
• Rain/wind protection (as a precaution)
• If booking in early spring or autumn we recommend gloves and a buff/neck warmer.
• Flat-soled shoes (NO SANDALS or open shoes permitted)
• Suitable cycling clothes
• Snacks (optional)

INCLUDED:

• Certified mountain bike guide
• Cube cross-country E-bike
• Helmet
• Rear fitted bag for personal belongings
• 1x 500ml bottle of mineral water

IMPORTANT:

• Bikes are suitable for participants with a minimum height of 155 cm
• Minimum age of 15 years with the ability to manage a bike of roughly 22kg

COST: €270

• Lakeside cycling from Menaggio to Varenna-
• 6 hours
• Distance: 70km
• From Codogna-Cardano CO, Italy

Combine two of the prettiest lake towns by cycling right round the intriguing northern tip of the lake from Menaggio to Varenna – enjoy a leisurely ferry ride back across the lake.

A full day on your e-bike allows you to see so much of the lake.

Unlike our mountain tour, today we essentially follow the lake shore. This is an easy but relatively long ride of 70km. We leave from the charming Renaissance hamlet of Cardano and head down the cycle path to Menaggio. From here we follow the lake road in search of quaint villages; castles; churches and opportunities to cycle close to the water’s edge.

Pass the Villa Gaeta of James Bond Casino Royale fame. Get a feel for how each village has it’s own personality and atmosphere.

There will be no shortage of photo opportunties as we stumble across stunning corners of the lake. Ride along sections of the ‘Antica Via Regina’, a road whose existence can be traced right back to the Romans. We will have a quick, casual lunch (usually a ‘panino’ and icecream) in a local caffe’ at the point where the river Mera flows into the lake.

Once we reach the northern most point we enter the Pian di Spagna nature reserve. The landscape changes dramatically in this area. We ride a maze of small back roads before winding our way round towards Varenna.

Considered by many to be the most beautiful town on the lake, we will have time to explore the “passeggiata degli innamorati”, or Lover’s Walk – a picturesque walkway with gorgeous vistas onto the water.

All that’s left to do is jump on a ferry with our bikes and relax as we head back to Menaggio.

Caffe’ Bar Lunch

• Sandwich or piadina of choice
• Water, soft drinks and coffee. included
• Any items not included in the
•  set menu or variations to the menu to be paid directly at the restaurant.
• Food allergies or intolerances accomodated only if communicated in advance

SUITABLE FOR:

• Minimum height 155 cm
• Minimum age 15 years
• Not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility inpairments or injuries

Technical difficulty: Low 

• Cobbled paths. No significant uphills or downhills
• Physical exertion: Medium –
• You will need some endurance over the 70kms however there are no significant uphills or downhills

PLEASE BRING:

• Sun Protection Rain/wind protection (as a precaution)
• If booking in early spring or autumn we recommend gloves and a buff/neck warmer.
• Flat soled shoes (NO SANDALS or open shoes permitted)
• Suitable cycling clothes
• Snacks (optional)

INCLUDED:

• Certified English-speaking mountain bike guide
• Cube cross-country E-bike
• Helmet and fitted bag for personal belongings
• 1x 500ml bottle of mineral water
• Caffe’ Bar lunch

IMPORTANT:

• Bikes are suitable for participants with a minimum height of 155 cm
• Minimum age of 15 years with the ability to manage a bike of roughly 22kg

COST: €260

• 6 hours
• Distance: 80 km Total elevation: 1.674 mt uphill. 1.674 mt downhill
• From cardano-codogno (CO) Italy

High Altitude Views of Lake

Como Italy’s mountain refuges offer amazing atmosphere, hearty food and spectacular views – we travel the back roads of the Valle d’Intelvi to reach this one-of- a-kind place.

This tour is perfect for anyone with experience cycling a full day in the mountains as today we will be riding a grand total of 80km.

Departing from the charming agricultural hamlet of Cardano in Grandola ed Uniti with it’s cobbled streets and stone houses, we head in the direction of Lake Lugano. Our route crosses the quiet natural reserve of Lake Piano and the shores of Lake Lugano before heading uphill and into the Valle d’Intelvi. Gorgeous shady mountain roads take us ever closer to our destination. As you head out of the forest you find yourself in a vast wonderland of open fields and vistas. We ride the easy gravel road for 4 km uphill along the crest of Monte Galbiga until we reach our ‘rifugio’ at an altutide of 1576m.

This is the last uphill stretch, for which you’ll need some stamina before we are rewarded with a fantastic lunch and a chance to rest. The rustic mountain refuge is a place where lover’s of nature, hiking and cycling all congregate  for a lunch of local specialities – this is the best place to try a plate of ‘pizzocheri’, polenta or cheeses all produced locally.

Breathtaking views of Lake Como are our backdrop. The joy of this tour is that we reach a spectacular destination, much loved by the locals while completely avoiding the busy main lake road.

Set Lunch Menu

• Starter – Platter of local cheese and cold cuts
• Dish of the day – Choice of pizzocheri (buckwheat pasta with cheese and cabbage); braised beef; casserole; sausage or pork shank served with polenta
• Dessert – Squares of homemade jam tart
• Water, soft drinks and coffee included
• Any items not included in the set menu or variations to the menu to be paid directly at the refuge.
• Food intolerances accomodated only if communicated in advance.

SUITABLE FOR:

• Minimum height 150 cm
• Minimum age 15 years
• Not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments or injuries.
• Good general fitness and confidence on a bike are required.

Category 3 difficulty:

• Not suitable for novice and less confident riders.
• The ride includes steep uphills.
• Physical endurance is needed to complete the ride.
• Stretches of non-technical gravel road.
• Technical uphills and downhills.

PLEASE BRING:

• Sun protection
• Rain/wind protection (as a precaution) – It can be cold at 1576m in the summer so you will need to bring something warm
• Flat soled shoes – NO SANDALS or open shoes permitted
• Snacks (optional)

INCLUDED:

• Certified mountain bike guide
• English speaking
• Cross-country Cube e-bike
• Helmet
• Fitted bag for personal belongings
• 1x 500ml bottle of mineral water
• Set menu lunch

IMPORTANT:

• Bikes are suitable for participants with a minimum height of 155 cm
• Minimum age of 15 years with the ability to manage a bike of roughly 22kg.