LAKE COMO AND IL GIRO DI LOMBARDIA
The region of Lombardy is one of the wealthiest in Europe, with an enviable location centered on its beautiful lakes, and bordered by the snow-capped Alps to the North and the fertile Po Valley to the south. With Milan functioning as the financial and fashion capital, the provinces of Como and Varese display all the charm of Northern Italian life- beautiful lakes lined with extravagant villas, secluded forests and picturesque vistas from the surrounding hills. Laying at the southern tip of one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe-Lake Como- the city of Como is the center of Italian life in Lombardy. It is also the finish for one of the longest running, and most demanding, Classics in cycling history, as riders hit the Lungo Lario after ascending the Civiglio and San Fermo del Battaglia climbs that overlook the lakefront city.
World-Class Cycling
The Giro di Lombardia- The Race of the Falling Leaves- is the final important Classic on the race calendar- taking in the steep & picturesque shores of Lake Como, this true Classic features enough climbing to rival a grand tour stage over some of the most stunning roads around the Northern lakes. Challenge yourself over these same roads, plus the scenic terrain that surrounds Varese and Lakes Maggiore and Lugano, the medieval Swiss village of Mendrisio and the 2009 World Championships course, and the Campo di Fiori Regional Park. Our riding culminates with the Gran Fondo Giro di Lombardia, an amateur event covering the final 70 kilometers of the race course.
Authentic Culture
A pilgrimage to the chapel of Madonna del Ghisallo, the patron Saint of cycling and the new cycling museum that sits in an enviable position overlooking Lake Como is a must for any cycling fan. The pedestrian streets of the Roman center of Como, lined with shops and restaurants, culminate at Piazza Cavour, a perfect spot for a café to enjoy the lakeside view. The 14th century Duomo dominates the city with its gothic façade, offset by the luminous and functional beauty of the Casa del Fascio nearby, a 1930's monument to modern architecture. The UNESCO site of Sacro Monte-Sacred Mountain- sits high above the city of Varese, famous for its gardens at the Villa Estensi.
Exemplary Service
Enjoy VIP access to the start of the Giro di Lombardia, a lavish ceremony set among the beautiful formal gardens of the Villa Estensi. Our central hotel location in Como places you at the start line of the Gran Fondo; 4-star luxury surrounds you in both of our hotels, and we've uncovered the gastronomic secrets of both Provinces- from Ronchi Varesine wines paired with formagello del Luinese, to fresh lake fish and the specially produced prosciutto viola- ham aged for months according to a local recipe.