Today is day 1 for this link adventure We enjoy a rewarding travel day across the border into Italy and down the scenic valley to the bustling station of Milan before our short connection onto Stresa. We check into our lakeside Hotel on Lago Maggiore in the beautiful town of Stresa. Dinner in the Piazza tonight is a must washed down by some lovely Italian wines.

A casual pedal today over the hill, through a valley to the historic village on the Lago D’Orta. Some challenging but fun cobbled descents into the small town right beside the lake for morning tea. We cruise back an alternative route that showcases spectacular views of the Lago Maggiore and our base town of Stresa. Perhaps an afternoon siesta by the lake or a casual walk along the shore passing the many 5 star hotels frequented by the Milanese “in crowd”. A sensational meal again and a wine tasting evening in the old town tonight.

A beautiful ride along the Lake to the Swiss border. The magnificent city of Lugano, although technically Swiss it is more Italian in nature, providing a day of fascinating contrasts. We have options after lunch for a ferry journey home or a cycle return.

Today is departure day for this adventure. A half day train journey onto our next base of Lucca in Tuscany if you are taking in the full journey with us