E-Bike Tour around Three Lakes and Idyllic Mountain Life
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This fantastic route delivers it all: hidden villages, rustic charm, spectacular lake views, and a stop on Lake Lugano.
We ride down to the Val Sanagra nature reserve – lying just above Menaggio, it is one of the Lake Como's best-kept secrets. Pass evocative stone houses and old water mills. Ride uphill through the historic villages of Velzo and Naggio, surrounded by green fields. Weave through charming village squares untouched by time and tourism. Enjoy a glorious downhill ride on an original medieval road. Stunning views guide us onto the shores of Lake Lugano before we cycle to Lake Piano along the old railway line that once connected Lake Como to Lake Lugano and is now a pretty cycle path, to complete our loop back in the Renaissance hamlet of Cardano. The ride is a mini adventure with simple gravel road, uphills, downhills, narrow village paths - General agility and confidence on a bike are required. An e-bike is a normal geared bicycle with battery assistance.
Available options
E-Bike Tour around Three Lakes and Idyllic Mountain Life
What's included
Cube Reaction cross-country e-bike, helmet, rear-fitted bike bag
Detailed itinerary
1
We start our tour from the Renaissance hamlet of Cardano. Ride the narrow cobbled alleyways past the Bagatti Valsecchi villa that stills belongs to this noble Milanese family. The small agricultural villages we visit are composed of narrow paths with tight turns requiring agility and confidence on a geared bike.
2
Ride a relatively steep downhill section into the Val Sanagra nature reserve to discover the valley stream that gave life to a number of mills and is home to gorgeous stone houses and ancient stone bridges.
3
Ride uphill into the hamlet of Velzo, surrounded by grape vines and immersed in mountain scenery. Traverse the village following the original narrow alleyways including a few tight turns.
4
We enter Naggio, another typical mountain village with a beautifully preserved square, before preparing for a gorgeous, panoramic downhill ride (at times steep) to get our first glimpse of Lake Lugano.
5
We ride the back roads to find hidden frescoes and continue on the original medieval road which includes downhill sections of easy gravel.
6
Cycle through the historic centre of this lakeside town with it's speciality food stores. Stop right on the beach and have a coffee or ice-cream in the area. The homeward journey passes the scenic nature reserve of Lake Piano. Follow the old railway line passing expansive green fields, stables and farmsteads until we reach Cardano where the tour ends. This stretch of cycle path is the only flat section of the tour.
What's not included
Snacks
Gratuities
Bring water in small 500ml bottles
Pick up from Menaggio or Cadenabbia ferry station on request and paid on arrival.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
54 reviews
5★
51
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
85 reviews
5★
85
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age 14, minimum height 150cm, maximum height 194cm (under 18yrs accompanied by an adult).
Suggested maximum age 65. Participants age 65+ need to be recent, confident riders on varied terrain.
Intermediate skills on a geared bicycle on mixed terrain are needed. Lake Como is mountainous - there are significant uphills and downhills; sections of easy gravel and narrow village paths requiring general athleticism, agility and confidence on a bicycle.
Suitable activewear is obligatory - No sandals or open shoes, no loose-fitting long skirts or trousers. Guests wearing flip flops will not be allowed to ride for safety reasons.
Pick up from Menaggio/Cadenabbia ferry station available on request only and paid on-site
Not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments, injuries, bad hips and lack of agility.
Meeting point
Follow the 'bebike' signs at the start of Via Roma or contact us for exact parking details. You will see a large yellow church as you approach our office.
We can assist in coordinating a pick up from Menaggio ferry station - service available if requested in advance - paid on-site.
About Lake Como
Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, is renowned for its stunning villas, serene waters, and picturesque towns. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking relaxation and elegance.
Top Attractions
Villa del Balbianello
A stunning villa with beautiful gardens and a rich history, featured in films like Star Wars and Casino Royale.
Historical
2-3 hours
€10-€15
Como Cathedral
A beautiful example of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, featuring intricate details and a grand façade.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Villa Carlotta
A historic villa with beautiful gardens and a museum showcasing art and natural history.
Historical
3-4 hours
€10-€15
Must-Try Local Dishes
Missoltino
Dried and salted fish, typically served with polenta.
Dish
Contains fish
Risotto al pesce persico
Risotto made with perch, a local fish.
Dish
Contains fish
Polenta e formaggio
Polenta served with local cheese.
Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boating
Cycling
Spa treatments
Lakefront walks
Sunbathing
Villa tours
Art museums
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak season offers warm weather, vibrant atmosphere, and numerous outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded with tourists.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lake Como is generally safe with low crime rates. However, travelers should take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or pre-arranged transfers
Getting there
By air
- Milano Malpensa Airport • 50 km
- Milano Linate Airport • 60 km
By train
Como San Giovanni
By bus
Como Bus Station, Bellagio Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Ferries are the most scenic and convenient way to travel between towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber is not widely available
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Como
Bellagio
Varenna
Day trips
Milan
50 km • Full day
A vibrant city known for its fashion, art, and architecture, including the famous Duomo and La Scala opera house.
Bergamo
60 km • Full day
A charming medieval city with a well-preserved old town and stunning views from the upper city.
Festivals
Lake Como Film Festival • July
Como Opera Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit lesser-known towns like Varenna and Menaggio for a more authentic experience
- Take a boat tour to see the lake from different perspectives
- Explore the surrounding mountains for stunning views and hiking opportunities
- Try local specialties like missoltino and risotto al pesce persico
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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