Let's continue to Porlezza, a popular tourist destination at the north-eastern end of the lake, which can be reached by taking the Strada Statale 340 Regina road to Argegno and then crossing the Val d'Intelvi.   An embarkation point for lake cruises in the summer months, out of season it offers a more relaxed and charming atmosphere. The parish church dedicated to San Vittore, one of the 57 mediaeval parish churches of the ancient archdiocese of Milan, is well worth a visit, while a few kilometres from its centre, in the direction of Menaggio, we find Lake Piano, a nature reserve and EU Site of Community Importance, which must not be missed. Easy to ride and suitable for everyone, the 13.5-kilometre Porlezza-Menaggio cycle path links Lake Ceresio with Lake Como.  (Ph: wikipedia.org)

A place of cultural interest indeed with the landscapes of Fogazzaro’s novels, the fossils of Monte San Giorgio, the fortifications of World War land the secret places of Ceresio

  The last stop on our tour among the villages of Lake Lugano, Claino is one of the most interesting hamlets from a historical and artistic point of view.   With its mediaeval remains, Renaissance graffiti and more than 40 murals colouring the houses in the centre, it has earned the nickname of "Borgo Dipinto del Ceresio" (Painted Village of Ceresio).     The Oratory of Santa Giulia, a small 17th century church that can be reached after a 45-minute walk, is also worth a visit: your efforts will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the lake. Just a few minutes from Claino con Osteno, on the eastern side of the Ceresio, are the Rescia Caves, a circular route consisting of seven interconnected caves inside a wood, with a geological age of 80 million years.  You can enjoy this unexpected spot with a guide or on your own, venturing with torch in hand through gorges, waterfalls, and mineral aggregates similar to coral reefs.      (Ph: clainoconostenoturismo.it)

Lago di origine glaciale, è un ricco sito di giacimenti fossiliferi, in particolare in prossimità del Monte San Giorgio

Saints, pilgrims, artisans and master brewers

Fossils and nature

Carps, chars, trout. River and lake fish. Some advice on where to go fishing in Lombardy. From Pavia to Como

A tour from Lake Maggiore to Lake Lugano (also known as Lake Ceresio), crossing streams, waterfalls and the mills of the Varese valleys. From Luino, you’ll take the cycle path that runs along the Magorabbia stream up to Cunardo, where you can admire its cliffs and the Ferrera waterfalls. Set off towards Ghirla and stop at its “Maglio” mill, one of the best kept in the area. From here, you’ll take the cycle path that descends towards Lavena – Ponte Tresa, running along interesting routes, including the old railway with its galleries and the Argentera park, an amazing place rich in beautifully-frescoed mills. You can also take a detour to visit Ganna and its abbey. Places of interest: Lake Maggiore in Luino Ferrera waterfalls Maglio di Ghirla Argentera Park former Ghirla railway Tresa bridge, Lake Lugano. RECOMMENDED BICYCLE: E-Bike

Add a breathtaking landscape to a vintage car and enjoy your romantic trip

Among enchanting villages, nature reserves and ancient villas, Lake Lugano is the ideal destination for a weekend of pure well-being. Find out more.