Just a few days away from the start of the Milan-Cortina Olympics, an epoch-making event not only for its international fame but especially for the way it engages multiple regions of Northern Italy, the Italian lakes emerge as natural connectors—perfect for slow, sustainable tourism rooted in the local territory.
Your Holiday Paradise
These lake destinations offer an authentic way to explore Italy beyond the main Olympic venues, through cycling routes, local communities, and lesser-known landscapes
Nature, Adventure, and Authentic Experiences
The northern part of Lake Como, known as Alto Lago di Como, is a paradise for outdoor lovers seeking authentic and less crowded experiences.
Key outdoor activities on Lake Como include:
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Cycling routes along the lake and through the surrounding valleys, ideal for road cycling and e-biking
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Hiking and trekking trails connecting panoramic viewpoints, alpine pastures, and historic villages
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Water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and kayaking, thanks to consistent mountain winds
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Nature exploration in the Pian di Spagna Natural Reserve, a protected wetland area rich in biodiversity
The area is also home to the traditional crotti — ancient rock cellars with naturally cool temperatures, once used to store wine, cured meats, and cheeses. Today, they represent a unique cultural and gastronomic experience deeply rooted in local tradition.
- Free rental of hiking poles and backpacks
- Cable car hikes in Salzburger Land
- Guided hikes organized tours & hikes
Valsassina Valley: A Green Alpine Paradise Near Lake Como
Just a few kilometers from the city of Lecco, the Valsassina Valley is a lush, unspoiled alpine destination nestled between the dramatic limestone peaks of the Grigne mountain group and the Orobic Prealps, where Northern Lake Como meets the gateway to Valtellina.
Overlooking Lake Como, Valsassina offers breathtaking panoramas and a rich concentration of natural, historical, and cultural treasures. The valley is crossed by the Pioverna stream, which has shaped its landscapes and supported local communities for centuries.
With its unmistakable spires, pinnacles, and vertical rock faces, Valsassina is considered a true paradise for alpinists and climbers seeking technical challenges and iconic alpine routes. At the same time, it is an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities in every season.
Popular outdoor experiences in Valsassina include:
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Hiking and trekking across alpine pastures, forests, and panoramic trails
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Rock climbing and mountaineering on the Grigne’s legendary limestone walls
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Winter sports, including downhill and cross-country skiing
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Skiing in Piani di Bobbio and Artavaggio, two of the most important ski areas near Lake Como
The Piani di Bobbio area has been officially included among the Milan–Cortina Olympic territories, selected as a training venue for athletes preparing for the Olympic competitions — further reinforcing the valley’s strategic role in the Olympic legacy.
