Questions? Call 800-677-0877
Tofino Expeditions Logo

Celebrating 35 Years of Award Winning Sea Kayaking Adventures

Kayaking the Italian Lake District
Italy Kayaking Tours - Gandria Lago Lugano and the Swiss Italian Alps

Kayaking the Italian Lake District

Seasons
June and September
Trip Length
9 Days
Airport
Milan (MXP)
Skill Level
Easy
Villa del Balbianello, Lago Como

Discover The Lake District

The exquisite landscape of the Italian Lake District spans the provinces of Lombardy and Piedmont, as well as the Italian Swiss Canton of Ticino. The lakes have enchanted visitors since the days of the Roman Empire. Stunning scenery, a mild climate, and a rich history contribute to the locale’s reputation as one of the world’s most romantic destinations.
As seen in the Washington Post

Lago Como Near Bellagio

Overview, Varenna, Lago Como

Unmatched Scenery

Mirror-smooth lakes surrounded by soaring, snowcapped peaks provide a setting reminiscent of the Norwegian Fjords, yet with a distinctly Mediterranean culture. Charming medieval villages are laced with narrow cobbled walkways that open out to small sun-splashed plazas. Along the lakeshores, opulent villas with lush, manicured gardens invoke the luxury of ages past. Throughout history, the beauty of the lakes has inspired musicians, artists, and writers including Wagner, Verdi, Da Vinci, Cristo, Hemmingway and Virgil.

Kayaking to Varenna, Lago Como

Kayakers and Swan, Village of Gandria, Lago Lugano

Kayaking Paradise

Paddling the pristine, protected waters of the Italian Lake district is an unforgettable experience. The paddler enjoys a unique perspective on the Lakes’ powerful blend of dramatic scenery, fairytale villages, and opulent lakeside villas. Conditions are ideal with typically mild weather and swimmable, warm water. A lively culture of small boats in many of the towns gives the air of small fishing villages. The paddling routes on this trip are remarkably diverse, combining richly forested mountainsides, rugged cliffs, and remote islands with a rich Mediterranean heritage and way of life.

Kayakers and Swan, Village of Gandria, Lago Lugano

Villa Dining, Bellagio, Lago Como

Cuisine of the Lakes

The combination of Mediterranean foods infused with the pastoral specialties of the Alps makes for some of the best food in all of Italy. We’ll sample the best that the region has to offer, from grilled lake fish served with spicy, fruity local white wine, to rich risotto dishes accompanied by full-bodied regional reds. The temperate climate of the region produces a sumptuous array of produce that we buy from only the best local producers.

Villa Dining, Bellagio, Lago Como

Testimonial

 Italian Lake District kayaking happy kayakers.
For me, this kayaking tour was a beautiful blend of paddling, current culture, history, and gastronomic surprises, all in the setting of natural inspiring beauty. Many, many thanks for creating a very special and unforgettable time. I absolutely loved it all. Meryl Redisch, OR View Trips

National Geographic Award

Best Outfitters on Earth - National Geographic

Tofino Expeditions was the highest rated sea kayaking adventure travel company in a National Geographic Adventure survey of international outfitters based on:

  • Quality of Service
  • Education
  • Sustainability
  • Spirit of Adventure
→ Reserve Trip