Current as of: June 18, 2026 - 19:13

Peschiera del Garda

Cycling the Italian Lakes Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
  • Destination: Italy
  • Programmes: Cycling
  • Activity Level:

    3 out of 7 - Moderate

  • 8 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 12+
  • Trip Code: C07TL
  • Carbon Footprint: 15kg CO2e

Trip Overview

Begin your cycling journey from Lake Garda, riding along the beautiful ‘Ciclopista del Sole’ past the glistening lake shore and Mincio river. Visit the bustling resorts of Desenzano and Sirmione, known as the most beautiful towns on Lake Garda, before arriving in Brescia, a city rich in Roman and medieval remains.

A relaxing ride brings you to Franciacorta, a land of excellent local wines where the nearby Benedictine abbey stands proud amongst the castles of Passirano and Clusane. The second Italian lake you reach is the much smaller Lake Iseo, known for its abundance of water birds within this protected area. Following the Oglio river from Lake Iseo takes you through the medieval old town of Montello, before reaching Bergamo. A pearl of Northern Italy, you’ll have the afternoon to explore both the lower and upper towns of Bergamo, accessible by funicular.

You’ll soon reach the blue shores of Lake Lecco, a branch of Lake Como, where you ride along the green cycle path of the Adda. Pass by the small lakes of Annone, Pusiano, & Alserio, before arriving in the centre of Como and of course its famous lake.

Your last day takes you across the border into Switzerland, along the Monate lake with opportunities to swim in in the clear waters. Finally, you arrive in Ispra on Lake Maggiore with spectacular views all around. The natural beauty of these places, the rich cuisine and excellent local wines, give colour and culture to your cycling holiday, creating some incredible memories of the Italian Lakes.

Is This Trip for You?

This self-guided cycling holiday is ideal for independent travellers who enjoy exploring at their own pace, with the reassurance of pre-arranged accommodation, route guidance and local support. Previous cycling experience is recommended, but no technical cycling skills are required.

Cycling at a Glance
Trip Style:
 Self-guided
Activity Level: 3 (Moderate)
For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Navigation: Headwater Navigation App

How Your Self-Guided Holiday Works
This self-guided trip is operated by our sister company, Headwater. You’ll travel independently and at your own pace using the Headwater Navigation App, which provides expertly curated routes and directions, along with a 24-hour emergency assistance number should you need support. As there is no tour leader or organised group, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to travel at your own pace while following the planned itinerary. Headwater are specialists in self-guided active holidays with more than 40 years of experience.

Adult min age: 12

Itinerary

Land Only

  • Start City: Peschiera del Garda
  • End City: Ranco

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in Peschiera del Garda (Lake Garda)

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.

Accommodation: Enjoy Hotel Garda

Day 2
Peschiera del Garda to Brescia
Beautiful sunset view of Lonato del Garda, a town and comune in the province of Brescia, in Lombardy, Italy

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.

Accommodation: Hotel Master

Distance covered: 37mi (59km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3
Brescia to Lake Iseo

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.

Accommodation: Hotel Ulivi

Distance covered: 23mi (37km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4
Lake Iseo to Bergamo
Lake Iseo

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.

Accommodation: Palazzo Santo Spirito

Distance covered: 39mi (62km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5
Bergamo to Lake of Lecco

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.

Accommodation: Hotel Best Western Nuovo

Distance covered: 29mi (46km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6
Garlate to Lake Como
Lake Como

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.

Accommodation: Hotel Tre Re

Distance covered: 28mi (45km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7
Lake Como to Lake Maggiore

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.

Accommodation: Hotel Belvedere

Distance covered: 40mi (64km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8
Depart Ranco

After breakfast, leave Ranco and the beautiful Italian lakes.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotels

Hotel Belvedere, Ranco

You will stay in 3* and 4*  hotels, ranging from a family run 4* hotel just a 10 minute stroll from the shores of Lake Garda to a lovingly converted 14th century convent, complete with indoor pool and wellness facilities, in Bergamo,  and a stylish 3* hotel with stunning views over the banks of Lake Maggiore in Ranco.

Enjoy Hotel Garda, Peschiera del Garda (4*)

Enjoy Hotel Garda, Peschiera del Garda

A family run hotel, you’re just 10 minutes walk from the historical centre of Peschiera and the shores of Lake Garda. Escape to the outdoor pool with relaxing hydromassage and plenty of space to lounge around. Their onsite restaurant serves up authentic Italian cuisine alongside a carefully selected wine list.
Facilities: Pool, Hairdryer, WiFi, TV, Minibar, Aircon, Shops, Visa

Hotel Master, Brescia (4*) 

Hotel Master, Brescia

Located in the heart of Brescia, guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a relaxing wellness area and traditional restaurant. Relax in the indoor heated swimming pool, Turkish bath, and Finnish sauna, before sampling a delicious meal at Il Convivio restaurant.
Facilities: Pool, Hairdryer, WiFi, TV, Minibar, Aircon, Safe, Visa

Hotel Ulivi, Paratico (4*) 

Hotel Ulivi, Paratico

Perched on the shores of Lake Iseo, enjoy beautiful lake views from the outdoor swimming pool surrounded by centuries old olive-trees. Guests are welcome to enjoy the bistro cafe as well as a traditional breakfast served on the lakeside terrace.
Facilities: Pool, WiFi, TV, Minibar, Aircon, Safe, Visa

Palazzo Santo Spirito, Bergamo (4*)

Cycling the Italian Lakes

As part of a complex of an ancient Celestine Convent from 1309, the Spirito Santo (Holy Spirit) is teaming with historic intrigue. Guests are welcomed into the wellness area with Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, and indoor swimming pool. Enjoy local delicacies at their gourmet restaurant including carefully selected fine wines and craft beers.
Facilities: Pool, Hairdryer, WiFi, TV, Minibar, Aircon, Safe, Visa

Hotel Best Western Nuovo, Garlate (3*)

Hotel Best Western Nuovo, Garlate

Rooms are modern and welcoming with all the comforts for a lovely stay. A continental buffet breakfast is served daily and the restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine.
Facilities: Hairdryer, WiFi, TV, Minibar, Aircon, Safe

Hotel Tre Re, Como (3*)

Hotel Tre Re, Como

Located in a historic building in the centre of Como, the Hotel Tre Re boasts a prime location, just a few metres from the lake, funicular and Como’s main tourist attractions. The characteristic restaurant has a large frescoed ceiling and serves high-quality Italian cuisine. The ensuite bedrooms are traditional in style and come with air-conditioning, safe and satellite tv as standard.
Facilities: Hairdryer, WiFi, TV, Aircon, Safe

Hotel Belvedere, Ranco (3*)

Hotel Belvedere, Ranco

Originally a tavern when it opened its doors back in 1865, the Belvedere is now a stylish hotel with stunning views over the banks of Lake Maggiore in the peaceful setting of Ranco with a seasonal swimming pool. Their celebrated restaurant serves seasonal dishes offering a ‘taste of the lakes’.
Facilities: Pool, WiFi, TV, Minibar, Aircon, Tea/coffee

Worth knowing:

  • Should any of these accommodations not be available, alternative properties of the same standard will be used.

What To Take

Practical Info & Visa

Visa

Italy

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/italy
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
• USA:  www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Italy.html

Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.

Vaccinations and Health

Italy

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.

Local Time

Italy's time zone: Europe/Rome (UTC +02:00)

Electricity

Italy's electricity:

Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), F (two round pins), and L (three round pins in a row) – 230V, 50Hz

Cycling the Italian Lakes

Money

Italy's currency: Euros (EUR)

Sustainability and Impact

As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.

We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.

This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.