The 10 best activities to do at Lake Maggiore

Choose horseback riding in the hills of Bergamo and ride along the trails and dirt roads in the area, surrounded by the green woods of the park.

The horseback riding tour routes are suitable for both beginners and experts. The rides are one to two hours in length and take place throughout the week.

You will be led by an experienced guide, who will be with you for the duration of the excursion, showing you the most beautiful places and leading you through the most striking landscapes of the Bergamo area.

(The walk will be at a walking pace and not a galloping pace).

With this horseback ride in the Ticino Nature Park you will have the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the horses, brush them and prepare the necessary equipment for an enjoyable ride.

The experience begins with a short introductory lesson that will help you learn how to tame your horse.

During the horseback ride, which will have an effective duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, you will ride through the forest and spring areas, rich in waterways and vegetation. If lucky, you may see storks, herons and other migratory species.

There is also an opportunity to picnic on horseback.

Alpaca baptism in Milan allows you to have a relaxing experience surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The experience can last 1 or 2 hours at your choice and you will have the opportunity to hold an alpaca on a leash while walking inside the farm, also a guide will tell you how wonderful these animals are and their peculiarities, you will have the opportunity to feed them directly from your hands!

During the experience you will be offered a non-alcoholic or alcoholic drink. You will be able to choose between a spritz and a hot drink (tea or herbal tea).

Take a horseback ride along the banks of the Serio River, within the nature park of the same name on the border between the provinces of Bergamo and Cremona. Depart from Romano di Lombardia.

Relying on your guide you will have the opportunity to admire the protected natural area, rich in biodiversity and pristine habitats.

Before or after the horseback ride you can rest inside the center's characteristic clubhouse, enjoying an aperitif, or book lunches and dinners or stay in the comfortable B&B, all with a background of ambient music.

Enjoy this equestrian experience as a couple, with family, with friends, and ensure a moment of happiness and relaxation.

Learn all the secrets about wine making and create your own unique blend with this workshop at the Urban Winery in Milan.

Program

As soon as you arrive, you will be served a welcome glass, which you can taste during a tour of the winery's production area, accompanied by a brief introduction to the project.

Next you will taste 3 wine bases, learning to recognize the differences related to production methods. Based on your tastes, you can then create your own custom blend.

To conclude, you will be able to unleash your imagination by decorating the bottle label of the created wine.

At the end of the experience you will be given a bottle of the wine made, one per group (group means the group that made the reservation), to take home as a memento of the experience.

Any extra bottles of the created blend can be purchased directly on site, at a price of 10€ per bottle, upon request to the facility prior to creation.

The horseback ride will make you admire the territories of the Ticino Park, a protected natural area not far from Milan. It is a wonderful experience to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the Lombard capital, immersing yourself in nature, without having to travel a long way.

The experience è also suitable for those riding horses for the first time. In fact, before the ride è there will be a briefing of about 15 minutes in which the equestrian guides will explain the basics and rules for carrying out the experience in total safety.

The tour for adults also includes a gaudo section, meaning a section of the river will be crossed before returning to the stables,

Appropriate clothing is required, which includes long pants and sneakers. Mounting equipment is provided directly by the facility.

The horseback ride, starting from Viggiù, a town in the province of Varese near the Swiss border, will take you through the territories of Monte Orsa, along the Cadorna Line, a place rich in history.

The experience begins with a short briefing of about 15 minutes that aims to get to know the horse and hang some basic rules for your own safety and that of the horse. After the briefing is over, you will leave the facility in the direction of the Cadorna Line and Monte Orsa.

During the walk, in addition to being able to admire nature and the splendid view of Lake Ceresio, also known as Lake Lugano, you will see the trenches and fortresses of the Cadorna Line. The guide will tell you some anecdotes regarding the area and, in particular, concerning the history of the defensive line, which became famous during the First World War.

For those who want, the experience does not end once you return to the facility. In fact, it is also possible to purchase an aperitif that includes a drink and appetizers.

In case of allergies or specific dietary needs, please contact the facility directly for the aperitif.

Horseback riding in the mountains above Lecco, 558 meters above sea level, starts in the town of Primaluna. Excursions offered for this experience are either 1 or 2 hours in length, as desired.

All horseback rides are on the bridleway along the Pioverna River, where you can admire scenic and very characteristic places in the valley. You cross the river, if possible depending on weather conditions and season, and reache the woods. 

The horseback riding experience is suitable for anyone, even first-time riders. Appropriate clothing for horseback riding, such as closed shoes and long pants, is recommended.

Quads excursion to Sesto Calende on Lake Maggiore, perfect for a day out with friends.

You can choose from 3 types of tours:

.

Excursion on dirt/forest trail (1.5 hours):

•    90% dirt/forest trail suitable for inexperienced and beginners
•    Driving time 1h
•    Departures at 9:30 am, 11;45 am or 2 pm and 4:15 pm

Dirt/forest trail hike (2.5 hours):

•    90% dirt/forest trail suitable for inexperienced and beginners
•    Driving time 2h
•    Departures at 9:30 am, 11;45 am or 2 pm and 4:15 pm

Panoramic excursion with aperitif (3 hours):

•    20% unpaved/forested trail.
•    .
•    Halfway through the hike there will be a stop with aperitif on Lake Maggiore.
•    Departures at 9:30 am or 4:00 pm

On request, è possibility to combine lunch and/or dinner in affiliated facilities or paintball and/or softair.

The driver must have a B license, while the passenger must be at least 7 years old.

We recommend sportswear with closed-toe boots.

The weight limit of each ATV è is about 160 kg. Above that weight it will be necessary to book 2 individual quads.

The weight limit is about 160 kg.

This farmhouse above Bellagio, offers an organic wine tasting and visit to the vineyards overlooking Lake Como.

The tasting includes tasting of a Cascina Teresina Nebbiolo accompanied by a board with a selection of cheeses, sliced meats and a seasonal side dish.

In addition, the tasting includes water, homemade bread and coffeeè.

Before or after the tasting è it is possible to take a tour of the vineyards overlooking Lake Como, at an altitude of about 700 m.

The tasting will take place in a relaxing environment perfect for a day of vacation or a weekend getaway. The farmhouse has a panoramic veranda and a terraced garden from which to admire the view of the Lake.

In case of food allergies or intolerances è you can contact the property following the reservation.

Nature walk with views of Lake Maggiore, departing from Taino. The walks last 1 hour and are also suitable for those who have never ridden a horse before. In some cases the rider may be accompanied on foot by a guide.

After a brief introductory lesson on how to guide your horse, you will set out inside the Bruschera Oasis, a nature reserve that stretches entirely along the lake.

The route is through meadows and woods in the hills, with views of the Rock of Angera. The walk is entirely on trails, with the exception of 100 meters of paved road.

The minimum age to participate is 14 years old. For underage passengers, the presence of an adult is required.

A maximum of 2 people can participate.

Rent a 40-horsepower boat and discover Lake Como in total autonomy, following your own pace and enjoying every moment with absolute freedom.

You will board comfortable boats that are easy to drive and do not require a boat license, making them ideal for a relaxing, enjoyable and uncomplicated experience.

Each boat is equipped with a comfortable sun shade to protect you from the sun and an ice chest with water, with refreshing drinks included to make the trip even more comfortable.

Fuel is also included, so you can focus only on the pleasure of sailing.

The itinerary is free and customizable, with the opportunity to admire some of Lake Como's most iconic villas from the lake, such as Villa del Balbianello, Villa La Cassinella, Villa Gaeta, and Villa Monastero.

During the cruise you will skirt fascinating locations such as Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo, each with its own unique character and breathtaking scenery.

The horseback ride, starting from Viggiù, a town in the province of Varese near the Swiss border, will take you through the territories of Monte Orsa, along the Cadorna Line, a place rich in history.

The experience begins with a short briefing of about 15 minutes that aims to get to know the horse and hang some basic rules for your own safety and that of the horse. After the briefing is over, you will leave the facility in the direction of the Cadorna Line and Monte Orsa.

During the walk, in addition to being able to admire nature and the splendid view of Lake Ceresio, also known as Lake Lugano, you will see the trenches and fortresses of the Cadorna Line. The guide will tell you some anecdotes regarding the area and, in particular, concerning the history of the defensive line, which became famous during the First World War.

For those who want, the experience does not end once you return to the facility. In fact, it is also possible to purchase an aperitif that includes a drink and appetizers.

In case of allergies or specific dietary needs, please contact the facility directly for the aperitif.

Quads excursion to Sesto Calende on Lake Maggiore, perfect for a day out with friends.

You can choose from 3 types of tours:

.

Excursion on dirt/forest trail (1.5 hours):

•    90% dirt/forest trail suitable for inexperienced and beginners
•    Driving time 1h
•    Departures at 9:30 am, 11;45 am or 2 pm and 4:15 pm

Dirt/forest trail hike (2.5 hours):

•    90% dirt/forest trail suitable for inexperienced and beginners
•    Driving time 2h
•    Departures at 9:30 am, 11;45 am or 2 pm and 4:15 pm

Panoramic excursion with aperitif (3 hours):

•    20% unpaved/forested trail.
•    .
•    Halfway through the hike there will be a stop with aperitif on Lake Maggiore.
•    Departures at 9:30 am or 4:00 pm

On request, è possibility to combine lunch and/or dinner in affiliated facilities or paintball and/or softair.

The driver must have a B license, while the passenger must be at least 7 years old.

We recommend sportswear with closed-toe boots.

The weight limit of each ATV è is about 160 kg. Above that weight it will be necessary to book 2 individual quads.

The weight limit is about 160 kg.

Nature walk with views of Lake Maggiore, departing from Taino. The walks last 1 hour and are also suitable for those who have never ridden a horse before. In some cases the rider may be accompanied on foot by a guide.

After a brief introductory lesson on how to guide your horse, you will set out inside the Bruschera Oasis, a nature reserve that stretches entirely along the lake.

The route is through meadows and woods in the hills, with views of the Rock of Angera. The walk is entirely on trails, with the exception of 100 meters of paved road.

The minimum age to participate is 14 years old. For underage passengers, the presence of an adult is required.

A maximum of 2 people can participate.

Become a cheesemaker for a day and taste aged cheeses on an authentic farm in the Novara region of Italy.

You will have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in farm life and participate firsthand in all stages of cheesemaking.

Upon your arrival at the farm, you will begin the complete cheese-making process, taking part in each step, accompanied by clear and detailed explanations:

•    milk loading
•    curdling and fermentation
•    manual extraction and shaping of the cheese
•    start of stewing

After work at the dairy, a tasty natural snack of yogurt and fresh cheese will await you.

Next, you will participate in a workshop on aged cheeses, during which you will make some of the farm's typical aged cheeses, such as the famous wine cheese.

To end the day, you will enjoy a selection of aged cheeses served buffet style and accompanied by carefully matched wines.

In case of food allergies and intolerances, you can contact the facility following your reservation.

The boat connection from Orta to the Island of San Giulio provides an enchanting experience and makes it possible to reach the famous island of Lake Orta

Traditional boats take visitors through the calm waters of Lake Orta to the charming Island of San Giulio.

On the way, you can admire the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding vistas. Once on the island, you have the opportunity to explore its rich history, visit the striking basilica and stroll through the picturesque narrow streets.

It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the serenity of this magical place.

The return from the island is approximately every 15 minutes, until 4 pm. You can stay on the island as long as you like.

The horseback ride at Lake Orta will begin with a welcome briefing at the ranch during which your guide will explain what you are going to do and how to behave with the horses. Once each of you is assigned the most suitable horse you can begin the hour-long ride into nature on small trails. You will pass medieval bridges, woods and old mule tracks.

Finally if selected you will have the opportunity to have an excellent aperitif, ideal to enjoy the end of a wonderful day to the fullest.

Winery tour, lunch and wine tasting at one of the historic Langhe wineries in the picturesque Piedmont area near Alba and Barolo.

To personalize your experience, you can choose from 2 lunch options.

Gluttonous Menu

The menu includes:

•    an assortment of cold and hot appetizers from our country tradition
•    a homemade first course of your choice
•    a dessert

Delicious Menu

Menu includes:

•    cold and hot appetizers from our country tradition
•    a homemade first course of your choice
•    a second course
•    a dessert

For children there is a menu that includes pasta, schnitzel and potatoes and a final dessert so they too can enjoy this fun experience.

A sweatshirt is recommended for the winery visit.

There is an opportunity to do the 1h/2h/3h walks.

•    1h walk

Before the start, there will be a short briefing where you will meet and get to know the horses you will be hiking with.

Then you will enter the Avigliana Lakes Nature Park and, after walking along trails, woods and dirt roads, Lake Grande will appear on the horizon. You will skirt the shores of Lake Grande of Avigliana and then return to the stable.

In all, the route will take about an hour, and you will see the Avigliana Lakes on horseback. With this walk, you will not reach Avigliana Castle.

•    2 or 3 hour walk

Horseback ride to Avigliana Castle, near Turin and starting from the town of the same name.

You will ride through forests and ascend on horseback to the Castle, from where you can admire a fantastic view of the valley below. The hike is also suitable for beginners with no horseback riding experience.

Finally you will pass through the medieval village and finally return to the stable, heading towards Lake Avigliana.

Horseback riding in the woods of Albiano d'Ivrea, in the Gargnanese hinterland, a few kilometers from Turin with an experienced guide.

Program

The meeting is at the riding school in Albiano d'Ivrea, in the province of Turin. Upon arrival, the equestrian guide will welcome participants and provide a brief introduction to basic techniques for safely handling the horse.

The ride will take place along the "Route of Wonders," a loop trail of about 7 km on the hill of Albiano d'Ivrea, among vineyards, streams and poplar groves. Along the way, visitors can admire the Bishop's Castle of Albiano, built on the remains of a Roman villa, and characteristic installations.

During the excursion, equestrian guides will accompany the group on foot, ensuring safety and sharing interesting facts about the area. At the end of the ride you will calmly return to the riding stables.

If you choose the "walk + aperitif" option, a platter of local cured meats and cheeses, accompanied by an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage, will be served upon return.

For the picnic, stations with wooden tables and seating will be set up at a scenic spot in the park so that you can be more comfortable during the day.

Within the park you will be able to take walks along marked trails along a circuit lasting about 15 minutes. You will be able to pick up the wicker basket containing products from our farm and small local realities at 12:30 pm or 6:30 pm (sunset time) inside you will find for your information:

.

•    Salami
•    Cheese from the area
•    Seasonal main dish according to the availability of the period (e.g., vegetable velouté/rolls/rice salad, roast beef)
•    GREP sandwich ( we compose sandwiches with the products available in the selected period)
•    Macedonia of seasonal fruits
•    Bread
•    Slice of cake
•    1/2 L of house wine for every 2 people
•    A bottle of water
•    A thermos of coffee
•    (on request)

For children, the basket è reduced, without main dish and with a juice instead of wine.

Not è possible to have menù for celiac or vegan menù only vegetarian. When booking è it is necessary to report food allergies/intolerances.

At the facility è a bathroom with drinking water is available.

In case of bad weather the event è cancelled.

In case of a sudden storm we have an indoor common room for 15/20 people.

The winery tour and wine tasting inside Verduno Castle in the Langhe region includes a farm-to-table lunch with tasting menù open to everyone 18 and older.

This itinerary opens with a visit to the historic cellars, followed by a rich tasting menù consisting of five courses. A tasting of four wines from the Castle's cellars will be offered as a pairing.

This service è available only for lunch on weekends. The cost of lunch for non-tasting adults is 60€.

Lunch consists of:

•    2 appetizers
•    1 first course
•    1 main course
•    dessert

For children a la carte menu is recommended.

In case of allergies or food intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

This winery tour with tasting in Castagnito, in the heart of the Roero, will immerse you in the history of the production of the best-known Roero wines.

You will have the opportunity to taste 5 or 7 wines, depending on the option you choose, paired with a platter of local cured meats and cheeses.

On being welcomed, you will be able to admire the views of the surrounding hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

After a few minutes you will be accompanied to the winery, where you can learn about all the stages of production and aging of the most historical wines of the ROERO tradition.

The explanation is followed by a tasting of local wines, paired with a platter of local cured meats and cheeses, a glass of Passito and a hazelnut cake.

Roero 100% (2 hours)

Tasting includes 5 wines. The tasting is paired with a platter of cured meats, one of local cheeses and a hazelnut cake.

Roero and Not Only (2 hours 30 minutes)

Tasting includes 7 wines paired with a platter of cured meats, local produce, platter of local cheeses and by a hazelnut cake.

The experience is suitable for everyone, and during spring and summer can be offered outdoors.

Wakeboarding at Como Lake Cable Park, a small lake near Colico, is an adventurous and adrenaline-pumping experience.

The experience includes 15-minute "laps" scattered throughout the day, during which you are always supervised by an instructor.

In addition, it is possible to purchase a 15-minute introductory wakeboard lesson: a first part of 5/10 minutes on land and then in the water the rest of the time.

It is strongly recommended to conduct the lesson if it is your first approach to the discipline.

Unlike classic wakeboarding in which a boat pulls you, cable wakeboarding allows you to glide across the water with a board thanks to an electric towing system, therefore "green."

The system consists of two poles about 100 meters apart, and allows the instructor to adjust the speed of the tow, making it easier to learn.

Horseback riding in the mountains above Lecco, 558 meters above sea level, starts in the town of Primaluna. Excursions offered for this experience are either 1 or 2 hours in length, as desired.

All horseback rides are on the bridleway along the Pioverna River, where you can admire scenic and very characteristic places in the valley. You cross the river, if possible depending on weather conditions and season, and reache the woods. 

The horseback riding experience is suitable for anyone, even first-time riders. Appropriate clothing for horseback riding, such as closed shoes and long pants, is recommended.

This farmhouse above Bellagio, offers an organic wine tasting and visit to the vineyards overlooking Lake Como.

The tasting includes tasting of a Cascina Teresina Nebbiolo accompanied by a board with a selection of cheeses, sliced meats and a seasonal side dish.

In addition, the tasting includes water, homemade bread and coffeeè.

Before or after the tasting è it is possible to take a tour of the vineyards overlooking Lake Como, at an altitude of about 700 m.

The tasting will take place in a relaxing environment perfect for a day of vacation or a weekend getaway. The farmhouse has a panoramic veranda and a terraced garden from which to admire the view of the Lake.

In case of food allergies or intolerances è you can contact the property following the reservation.

Rent a 40-horsepower boat and discover Lake Como in total autonomy, following your own pace and enjoying every moment with absolute freedom.

You will board comfortable boats that are easy to drive and do not require a boat license, making them ideal for a relaxing, enjoyable and uncomplicated experience.

Each boat is equipped with a comfortable sun shade to protect you from the sun and an ice chest with water, with refreshing drinks included to make the trip even more comfortable.

Fuel is also included, so you can focus only on the pleasure of sailing.

The itinerary is free and customizable, with the opportunity to admire some of Lake Como's most iconic villas from the lake, such as Villa del Balbianello, Villa La Cassinella, Villa Gaeta, and Villa Monastero.

During the cruise you will skirt fascinating locations such as Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo, each with its own unique character and breathtaking scenery.

Get ready for a divrtente Vespa ride on the shores of Lake Como from Varenna, discovering all its wonders.

The excursion starts in Varenna and continues to Vezio Castle, a medieval fortress with breathtaking views. From there, you will continue to two scenic spots of rare beauty: the town of Esino Lario, known as "The Pearl of the Grigne," and the Agueglio Pass.

Before returning to Varenna, you will travel two more stops: the Villa de Vecchi, long abandoned and surrounded by mystery, and the Bellano gorge, a visually striking place sculpted by the force of water.

The tour lasts a full day, with the opportunity to taste local wines and have lunch at a typical local restaurant.

Price includes vehicle rental and insurance, with full/full policy. A credit card or 500€ deposit is required as a guarantee.

Villa Cipressi Botanical Gardens and lunch is a unique experience that allows you to explore the villa’s beautiful botanical gardens overlooking Lake Como and enjoy a delightful lunch or dinner.

Located in Varenna, the villa complex - built between the 15th and 19th centuries and recently restored - combines historical charm with the elegance and comfort of one of the most beautiful historic villas on Lake Como.

A favourite destination for scholars and garden enthusiasts, the park surrounding the property boasts exceptional beauty and invaluable cultural significance, showcasing the biodiversity of different regions of Italy.

This year, from 1 November to 6 January, it becomes the Villa Cipressi Christmas Garden: an enchanting world of lights, music and Christmas flavours.

Complete your experience with lunch or dinner at Victoria Grill; the menu includes two courses of your choice (drinks and wine excluded).

Enjoy the Christmas atmosphere immersed in the timeless architecture and gardens typical of Lake Como's historic villas.

The indicated time refers to lunch or dinner service. The gardens can be visited in the morning or afternoon, depending on the opening hours of the property.