Italy Coast to Coast: Tirreno-Adriatico

9 Days/8 Nights
Advanced
4-12 people

 Northern Italy’s natural lakes are world-famous, nestled between the majestic Alps to the north and the fertile Po Valley to the south. With breathtaking panoramas, ancient villages, and historic villas along their shores, each lake is steeped in centuries of history and tradition.

 These shimmering waters and their surrounding mountains have served as natural and cultural borders for thousands of years—and today, they still mark the divide between Italy’s provinces and even between Italy and Switzerland.

Within this compact region lies an astonishing diversity of landscapes and cultures that you can only truly experience from the saddle. We’ll ride winding switchbacks, quiet backroads, and scenic “passi”—mountain passes that reveal a new world around every curve.

On our second entry into Switzerland, we’ll even walk a centuries-old smuggler’s trail, a narrow footpath once used for clandestine crossings between two mountain towns. Join us for this 8-night cycling adventure and experience eight spectacular lakes, each with its own story to tell! 🚴‍♀️🌊🇮🇹🇨🇭

Day 1: Arrival in Italy

Arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport, settle into your hotel in Mergozzo and relax ahead of your adventure.

Day 2: Lago di Mergozzo to Lago Maggiore

Cycle 97 km with 1,400m elevation from Mergozzo to Verbania over Motterone on Lake Maggiore and then take a scenic ferry across to Laveno.

Day 3: Lago di Mergozzo to Lago Maggiore

Ride 105 km (600 m elevation) from Laveno on Lake Maggiore to the charming town of Menaggio on Lake Como.

Day 4: Smuggler's Ride

Depart Menaggio for an 87 km (1,300 m elevation) stage through the lush Val d’Intelvi, cross briefly into Switzerland, arrive in Bellagio, then ferry back to Menaggio.

Day 5: Rest Day in Menaggio

Enjoy a free day to explore Bellagio or opt for a bike ride to the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo – Italy’s cycling shrine.

Day 6: Menaggio to Bergamo

Tackle 95 km (1,500 m elevation) over the Culmine San Pietro and through the Taleggio canyon to the historic city of Bergamo.

Day 7: Bergamo to Lago d’Idro

Take on the longest day: 135 km with 2,300 m of climbing from Bergamo to the tranquil lakeside town of Storo on Lake Idro over the Crocedomini.

Day 8: Lake Idro to Lake Garda

Cycle 100 km (800 m elevation) from Storo to the picturesque village of Malcesine on Lake Garda and celebrate your journey.

Day 9: Airport Transfer

Say goodbye to this lake, but promise us you will return for more.

 

Hotel

8-Night stay in hotels chosen at your preference level.

 

Curated Dinners

Unforgettable dining experiences. House Wine included with each meal.

 

Bike Rental

Bianchi Infinito CV with di2 and carbon fiber wheel set. Mechanical assistance from your guides.

 

Guide

English speaking guide to navigate courses, provide local context, and help with technical fixes on the bike.

 

Follow Van

The party van/sag wagon will offer a place to rest, carry extra layers and snacks, and transport luggage between hotel stops.

 

Airport Transfers

Group Arrival and Pick up Transfers to and from Milan Malpensa Airport

 

Breakfast

Daily Breakfast buffet at your hotel

 

Ferry Tickets

Transport on the Lake Como boat system as required for your guided rides.

Not Included

Airfare, Travel/Personal Insurance, Alcoholic Beverages at Dinner, Daily Lunch, Anything not specified

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