Three Lakes Loop: Maggiore, Comabbio, and Varese

The route offers a varied terrain. You'll find dedicated cycle paths around Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio, which are mostly asphalt. However, be prepared for some short gravel passages, especially on the Lake Comabbio loop. The 3 km connection between Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio is primarily dirt and gravel, traversing the Brabbia swamp. The segments connecting Ranco on Lake Maggiore to the other lakes are generally small, scenic asphalt roads, some with light traffic.

While the overall route is classified as 'moderate', sections like the Lake Varese cycle path and the Lake Comabbio loop are largely flat and considered easy, making them suitable for less experienced cyclists. However, the 3 km dirt and gravel section connecting Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio might be challenging for pure road bikes or beginners, requiring wider tires or some technical skill. The Lake Maggiore portion can also involve more significant elevation changes.

This route is rich in scenic beauty and historical sites. You'll pass by the Church of Saints Martino and Lorenzo, Ranco, enjoy the Sesto Calende Riverfront Promenade, and take in the View of Sesto Calende, the Ticino River, and Monte Rosa. Other highlights include the Visconti Castle of San Vito, the tranquil Lake Comabbio with its unique wooden platform, and the Lakeside Cycle Path at Lake Varese. Don't miss the Castelbarco Mausoleum.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is typically pleasant, with milder temperatures and less rainfall, making for comfortable cycling conditions. Summer can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially in July and August.

Yes, as the name 'giro ad anello' suggests, this is a circular route, starting and ending in Ranco. This means you won't have to retrace your steps and can enjoy continuously changing scenery.

The tour starts from Ranco, which is a good place to look for parking. While specific parking areas aren't detailed, Ranco is a small town on Lake Maggiore, and you should be able to find public parking near the starting point, possibly close to the Church of Saints Martino and Lorenzo or along the lakeside.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official cycling paths. You'll ride along parts of the Ciclovia Ticino, the Ciclopedonale Lago di Varese, and the Ciclopedonale Lago di Comabbio. It also touches upon the Dorsale del Verbano - Agenda21Laghi and the Grand Tour del Lago Maggiore.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route. The cycle paths and roads are publicly accessible.

While the route primarily uses cycle paths and roads, which are generally open to the public, it's important to consider the safety and comfort of your dog on a racebike tour of this distance (over 54 km). Dogs are typically not suited for riding alongside a racebike for such long distances. If you plan to bring a dog, it would need to be in a specialized bike trailer or basket, and you should check local regulations for dogs on cycle paths and in nature reserves like the Brabbia swamp.

The Lake Comabbio section, being a tranquil naturalistic oasis with a ban on motorboats, is particularly rich in aquatic plants and wildlife. The connection between Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio traverses the Brabbia swamp, a nature reserve with dense vegetation, which is also home to various species. Keep an eye out for different bird species and other small animals typical of wetland environments.

Yes, as the route passes through several towns and along popular lake areas, you'll find opportunities for cafes, restaurants, and shops. Sesto Calende, located on the Ticino River, is a good spot for a break, and towns around Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio will also offer amenities. It's always a good idea to carry some snacks and water, especially for the longer stretches between towns.