Lake Como Bike and Kayak Tour: Colico to Lake Mezzola Full-Day Adventure
Cycle from Colico through the Pian di Spagna reserve, then paddle across Lake Mezzola to a beach picnic and the tiny San Fedelino chapel. This full-day bike-and-kayak loop blends easy riding with calm-water paddling and glacial-landscape views.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a spare dry change of clothes
Switching from wet paddling to a bike ride can chill you—pack a warm layer and dry socks for the return trip.
Use a small dry bag
A 5–10L dry bag keeps phone, snacks and a light jacket safe during the kayak section.
Wear closed-toe water-friendly shoes
You'll transition from bike to kayak and possibly walk over rocky beaches—firm, quick-dry shoes speed those moves.
Respect the Pian di Spagna reserve
Stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing bird nesting areas—this wetland is ecologically sensitive.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small pebbled beach west of San Fedelino for a quieter picnic spot
- •Short shoreline walk to the waterfall fed by mountain streams—best viewed in late spring or after rain
Wildlife
- •Great reed warbler
- •European otter (occasional sightings in quiet channels)
Conservation Note
Pian di Spagna is a protected wetland—stay on trails, pack out waste and avoid interfering with nesting birds to protect this fragile habitat.
San Fedelino is an early medieval Romanesque chapel on the lakeshore; the area has long been a crossroad between Valtellina alpine valleys and lakeside communities.
What to Bring
Quick-dry athletic clothingEssential
Dries fast after paddling and keeps you comfortable while cycling
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects feet when launching kayaks and walking on rocky shorelines
Small dry bag (5–10L)Essential
Keeps valuables and spare clothes dry during the kayak leg
Sunscreen and a brimmed hat
Necessary for extended exposure on open water and flat reserve areas
Common Questions
Do I need previous kayaking or cycling experience?
No advanced skills are required—guides provide instruction and the route uses calm water and mostly flat cycling terrain, though basic balance and stamina are helpful.
Where does the tour start and finish?
Most departures are from Colico; the route returns to the same location after the bike-and-kayak loop.
What is included with the booking?
Bikes, helmets, kayaks, paddles, life jackets and an English-speaking guide are provided; you should bring food for a beach picnic and a change of clothes.
What happens in bad weather?
Operators cancel tours in unsafe conditions; the booking notes that sales are final but activities may be canceled for bad weather—confirm closest to the date.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Colico, Lombardy
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: comfortable with several hours of mixed aerobic activity (cycling plus paddling)
Ready to Explore Colico?
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