if you are trained and fit and the physical effort does not scare you, this is the itinerary that takes you on a journey through history, art and nature
The departure is simple from Costa Volpino along the road and then take the cycle path of the river Oglio one of the longest and most articulated in our area. Immersed in the nature of the surrounding countryside, continue up to the bridge and then follow the signs to Pisogne where we recommend the visit of the Santa Maria della Neve church with fantastic Romanino frescoes.
We start again following the suggestive bike path from Toline to Vello and then continue along the coast road across Marone, Sale Marasino and Sulzano. Just here, along this path, opens a breathtaking landscape with the 3 islands of the lake: Montisola, the largest lake island in Europe with its characteristic inhabited areas and the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola on its summit, Loreto with its characteristic neo gothic castle, and San Paolo, the private island.
Cycling along the road you will arrive in Iseo, the town that gives its name to the lake and which is part of the Franciacorta wine area. We suggest you take a break to visit the old town with the Piazza del Sagrato and the Parish Church of Sant'Andrea which houses an oil on canvas by Francesco Hayez and erected on the rocky spur, on the margins of the historical centre, you will be able to visit the Oldofredi castle.
Continuing in the south direction towards Clusane, a characteristic fishing village, famous for the baked tench with polenta, follow the cycle path to Paratico where, crossing the bridge, you will reach Sarnico’s beautiful lake waterfront. This town is famous for its splendid Liberty style villas, for the production of the famous Riva motorboats as well as for the Gianni Bellini art gallery situated in the old town.
Cycling north and passing through the village of Tavernola Bergamasca you will notice the drastic change of the landscape that becomes wilder especially along the road from Riva di Solto to Castro, where you can admire the suggestive spectacle of the Orrido del Bögn, the grey cliffs that rise sheer from the blu waters of the lake.
Just a few more kilometres and you will arrive in Lovere, tired but satisfied with this beautiful lake tour.
TIMINGS: 4 – 5,5 hrs
DIFFICULTY: medium
SIGHTS TO VISIT ALONG THE ROUTE:
- Santa Maria della Neve Church in Pisogne
- Villas, Averoldi Palace, San Zenone Church in Sale Marasino
- Sant’Andrea Church and Oldofredi castle in Iseo
- Carmagnola castle in Clusane
- Zucchellis fortress in Sarnico
- Dimezzata tower in Predore
- Orrido del Bögn
- Zorzino’s castle and the five towers in Riva di Solto
- the hamlet of Castro
SNACK BARS & RESTAURANTS: many bars and restaurants around the lake
TYPE OF EXCUSRION: to be done autonomously.
Upon request it is possible to book the guide at extra cost.
Please see reception for more information
