A superb
road cycling holiday in Italy which explores its Northern Lake District, an area synonymous with cycling history. The Giro d’Italia almost always visits this region and, perhaps even more famously, it is the setting for the Tour of Lombardy, or '
the race of the falling leaves', the autumnal one day classic which, each year, marks the end of the pro-cycling calendar.
Focusing on the lakes and the alpine foothills, or 'pre-alpi', our own Tour of Lombardia has been designed to appeal to discerning cyclists who like to combine their riding with the finer things in life such as good food, fine wine and stylish accommodation.
Our route through the Italian Lake District is not without challenges but it is thoroughly rideable and will take us into some of Italy’s most idyllic scenery. Evenings will be spent in classic Italian style in lakeside towns such as Bellagio, Cernobbio and Riva del Garda, assuring us of beautiful views to wake up to each morning!
Upon arrival we transfer to Angera on the shores of Lake Maggiore where we spend our first evening. The region is renowned for its mild climate, lush vegetation and regal architecture. Maggiore is Italy’s second largest lake and set against the resplendent backdrop of the Monte Rosa Massif, a stunningly beautiful starting point for the tour.
The following day we will enjoy a brief visit to Switzerland as we make our way to Cernobbio on the shores of Lake Como. No cycling trip to Como would be complete without a visit to Madonna del Ghisallo, the famous hilltop cyclist’s shrine and the fascinating museum which accompanies it. More superb riding follows as we make our way to our ultimate destination on the shores of Lake Garda where we will enjoy our final evening.