11 Thrilling Outdoor Adventure Activities in Lake Como for 2024

Unusual Outdoor Activities in Lake Como: From Adrenaline-Fuelled Thrills to Peacefully Sublime Moments

Lake Como, the jewel of the Lombardy region in Italy, invites adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore its unparalleled blend of elegance and excitement. Known for its dramatic scenery, historic villas like Villa Olmo, and serene waters, this nook of the Italian lakes offers an expansive canvas of unmissable outdoor adventure activities in Lake Como, boasting a plethora of unusual things to do, that cater to every interest.

From the adrenaline-fuelled thrills of kitesurfing and paragliding as well as water sports to the serenity of sailing into the sunset or embarking on scenic boat tours that unveil the picturesque towns of Bellagio and Menaggio, Lake Como ensures you are never short of options.

Lake Como serves as the perfect place for a day trip or an extended adventure. This year, expand your horizons and add an extra layer of unforgettable experiences with our curated list of eleven outdoor adventures, including a few that promise to elevate your visit from simply memorable to truly legendary.

Timeless Travel Steps is supported by our readers. If you purchase through an affiliate link on my site, at no cost to you, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Please read our Disclosure for further information.

Outdoor Adventure Activities in Lake Como, Italy

Within this spectacular Italian locale, Lake Como offers fun lake activities, merging adventure with the sophistication of its surrounding nature and architecture. Whether you’re drawn by the stunning views from the western shore, looking to explore iconic sites featured in James Bond and Star Wars, or eager to capture panoramic views for your photo collection, Lake Como delivers.

With convenient ways to get around Lake Como with or without a car, you can get to a specific destination to begin your adventure activity with ease. Engage in day trips filled with discovery, from boat rentals that grant you freedom on the water to treks up mountain paths offering spectacular views in the summer months. Each activity carefully selected in this post is designed to showcase the beauty and adventurous spirit of Lake Como, making it an essential destination for those seeking to explore the beautiful and the bold.

The most beautiful part of Lake Como is often debated, but many are drawn to the mid-lake region, often known as “the Golden Triangle” where towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio offer stunning views, exquisite villas, and vibrant botanical gardens. Each corner of Lake Como has its unique charm, from the secluded beaches to the rugged mountain trails, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, historic architecture, and luxurious leisure.

Lake Como or Lake Garda for Your Exciting Escapades

If you are contemplating and comparing adventurous activities in Lake Como to Lake Garda, let me just say, having visited both regions, that each of the Italian lakes is worth visiting for its unique charm. With Garda being larger, it offers a wider variety of water sports, and thrilling pursuits while Como is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and elegant atmosphere while also offering its unique set of adventurous activities. Ultimately, the choice between Lake Garda and Lake Como depends on personal preference, whether you’re seeking extensive water-based activities or the tranquil beauty and opulent villas that Como is famed for within a sublime atmosphere while fulfilling your heart-pumping wanderlust.

A Spotlight of 11 Incredibly Thrilling and Adventurous Activities in Lake Como You Shouldn’t Miss

From the serene to the extreme, these Como Lake activities offer a diverse playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. In this post, you’ll find a spotlight of eleven amazing outdoor adventure activities that you wouldn’t want to miss, ensuring your visit is packed with excitement and awe-inspiring moments.

Paragliding Over Lake Como: A Bird’s Eye View

Imagine soaring like an eagle over Italy’s most picturesque landscape. Paragliding in Lake Como offers not just the thrill of flight but unparalleled views of the lake’s shimmering waters, rugged mountains, and luxurious villas dotting the shoreline.

Suitable for beginners and seasoned flyers, local schools provide tandem flights with experienced instructors, ensuring a safe and mesmerizing experience. As you glide silently above this breathtaking scenery, the world below seems to pause, offering a moment of pure tranquility and freedom.

Canyoning in the Serio Waterfalls: A Rush of Adrenaline

For those who crave a blend of adventure and natural beauty, canyoning through the Serio Waterfalls, Italy’s tallest waterfall, and the second tallest cascading waterfall in Europe is a must-try. This activity takes you into the heart of the region’s stunning canyons, where you’ll navigate through crystal-clear pools, rappel down cascading waterfalls, and leap into the refreshing waters below.

Hiking to Serio Waterfalls is an exhilarating way to explore the hidden gems of Lake Como’s landscape, offering a unique perspective on the area’s geological wonders and lush vegetation. Whether you’re a canyoning novice or an experienced adventurer, this activity promises an adrenaline-fuelled journey through some of Italy’s most captivating terrain.

How to Get to Serio Waterfalls, Valbondione

To experience this outdoor adventure activity, you would typically depart from the town of Bergamo, which is relatively close to Lake Como. The Serio Waterfalls, located in the Seriana Valley, offer a spectacular setting for canyoning, surrounded by lush landscapes and dramatic drops. You can get there in one of two ways:

By Car: The most straightforward way to reach the Serio Waterfalls from Lake Como is by car. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, depending on your starting point around Lake Como. You would navigate towards Valbondione, the municipality where the waterfalls are located.

Public Transport: Although more time-consuming, it’s possible to use public transport. You can take a train from Como to Bergamo, and from Bergamo, there are local buses heading towards the Seriana Valley. However, public transport might require a bit of walking or additional local transport to reach the exact starting point of the trail leading to the Serio Waterfalls.

Speedboat Sailing into Sunset: A Romantic Adventure

Lake Como’s deep waters and steady breezes make it an ideal destination for sailing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a skilled sailor or a first-timer, renting a speedboat or joining a guided speedboat experience at sunset offers a magical way to experience the lake’s beauty. As the sun dips below the mountains, the lake is bathed in golden hues, creating a perfectly romantic setting.

Navigate along the coast, discover secluded beaches, and maybe even stop for a swim in the tranquil waters. Sailing on Lake Como is not just about the thrill; it’s about connecting with the serene and majestic nature of this Italian paradise, one that you would absolutely adore.

Kitesurfing in Dervio

Catch the wind and ride the waves with an exhilarating kitesurfing adventure in Dervio, a spot renowned for its ideal wind conditions. Perfect for thrill-seekers and water sports enthusiasts, kitesurfing offers a unique way to experience Lake Como’s expansive beauty.

With options for beginners and advanced surfers alike, and schools offering equipment rentals and lessons, this activity ensures an adrenaline-pumping day on the water. Book your session to unlock the thrill of gliding across Lake Como’s azure waters.

Scuba Diving Explorations in Lake Como

Dive into the depths of Lake Como to uncover its underwater mysteries. Scuba diving here offers a serene escape, revealing submerged statues, sunken boats, and vibrant aquatic life. Dive centers around the lake provide guided tours and certification courses, making this activity accessible for divers of all levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time diver, booking a scuba diving adventure promises a captivating glimpse into the tranquil world beneath Lake Como’s surface.

Diving Spots in Lake Como

Lake Como, with its deep waters and fascinating underwater landscapes, offers a variety of diving spots suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. Here are several noteworthy spots where you can enjoy diving in this picturesque Italian lake:

The Christ of the Abyss at San Fruttuoso: While not in Lake Como, it’s worth mentioning for those willing to explore wider Italy. The bronze statue of Christ, submerged near the bay of San Fruttuoso, between Camogli and Portofino, is a popular dive site in Italy.

Il Museo Subacqueo della Statua del Cristo degli Abissi: Located near the town of Bellagio, this underwater museum features a statue of Christ similar to the one at San Fruttuoso but within the fresh waters of Lake Como. It’s a serene spot that attracts divers from all over, offering a unique underwater experience.

Nesso’s Gorge: The gorge near the village of Nesso offers divers a chance to explore underwater rock formations and caves. It’s known for its clear waters and the interesting landscape both above and below the water level.

The Shipwreck of Lario: This is a more advanced dive site where divers can explore the remains of a sunken vessel in the deeper parts of the lake. It’s an eerie yet fascinating dive that offers a glimpse into the lake’s nautical history.

The Plane Wreck in Abbadia Lariana: For something truly unique, divers can explore the wreck of a seaplane that lies at a manageable depth on the eastern shore of Lake Como. This site combines natural beauty with historical intrigue, making for an unforgettable diving experience.

Gravedona’s Wall: This dive site is appreciated for its vertical wall that drops sharply into the deeper parts of the lake. Divers can see a variety of fish species and other freshwater marine life along the wall. Diving

Hiking the Mountains around Lake Como for Spectacular Views

Lake Como, with its stunning landscapes and picturesque towns, offers some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Italy, especially in the mountains above Bellagio and the areas known for their Dolomitic-like scenery. Here are a few notable hiking spots that you shouldn’t miss:

Mountains Above Bellagio

Monte San Primo: The highest peak in the Bellagio area, Monte San Primo offers panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps. The hike to the summit is moderate in difficulty, with well-marked trails leading through beautiful alpine meadows and forests.

The Greenway del Lago di Como: While not a mountain hike, this scenic pathway offers stunning views of the lake and its surroundings, including parts of the mountains around Bellagio. It’s a leisurely hike suitable for all skill levels.

Sentiero del Viandante: This ancient path stretches along the eastern side of Lake Como, from Abbadia Lariana to Colico. Hikers can enjoy segments of this trail for shorter hikes with spectacular views of the lake and the mountains above Bellagio.

Milanese Dolomitic Hike

Grigne Group: Often referred to for its Dolomitic-like qualities, the Grigne mountain range offers some of the most dramatic and challenging hikes in the Lake Como area. The Grigne Group is accessible from Lecco, a short distance from Lake Como, and features rugged peaks, steep cliffs, and breathtaking scenery reminiscent of the Dolomites.

Rifugio Rosalba: Situated within the Grigne mountains, this hike leads to a mountain refuge known for its stunning views and the rugged path that takes you through landscapes similar to the Dolomites. It’s a challenging route, recommended for experienced hikers.

Kayaking in Lake Como

Kayaking on the lakes is one of the premier outdoor adventure activities in Lake Como, offering a unique way to explore the breathtaking beauty of this iconic Italian lake. This adventure blends thrilling exploration with serene moments amidst nature.

Paddling through the clear, calm waters provides an intimate view of Lake Como’s stunning villas, lush gardens, and quaint lakeside towns, making it a must-try for anyone seeking to fully immerse themselves in the splendour of Lake Como’s landscape.

Best Spots for Kayaking on Lake Como:

Pescallo Bay: Just east of Bellagio, this lesser-known spot is perfect for kayakers looking for tranquil waters away from the bustling tourist spots. The bay’s sheltered position makes it ideal for beginners and those seeking a peaceful paddle.

Varenna: Starting from this charming village, kayakers can explore the eastern shore of Lake Como, enjoying the spectacular backdrop of mountains and historic architecture. The water here is clear, allowing for excellent views of the lakebed below.

Menaggio: The area around Menaggio, on the western shore, offers kayakers a variety of scenic routes, from leisurely paddles along the waterfront to more adventurous excursions towards the more secluded parts of the lake.

Isola Comacina: Paddling around Lake Como’s only island offers a unique perspective on the lake’s history and natural beauty. The waters around Isola Comacina are calm, making it a suitable destination for kayakers of all skill levels.

Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or trying it for the first time, Lake Como’s diverse landscapes and calm waters provide an unforgettable adventure. Local rental shops and guided tours are available, offering all the equipment and expertise needed to safely enjoy the best kayaking experiences on the lake.

Wakeboard and Wakesurf

Embark on an exhilarating wakeboarding or wakesurfing adventure activity on Lake Como, where the stunning backdrop of mountainous landscapes and elegant villas adds to the thrill.

Perfect for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts, Lake Como offers crystal-clear waters and spectacular views, making it an ideal setting to try these dynamic water sports for the first time or hone your skills.

With expert instructors available to guide you, it doesn’t matter if you’ve never stood on a board before; you’re in for an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of the sport with the unmatched beauty of Lake Como.

Sky-High Adventure in Lake Como

Embark on one of the most exhilarating outdoor adventure activities in Lake Como with an exclusive helicopter tour, merging breathtaking vistas and culinary excellence at the Madonnina di Barni. Soar above enchanting towns like Cernobbio and Bellagio, and admire landmark wonders including Villa Balbianello, capturing the essence of Lake Como from the sky.

This remarkable voyage offers not just a visual feast from Lake Como’s lofty vantage points but also an optional gourmet experience set against its extraordinary panorama. Within a span of 2.5 hours, dive deep into Italy’s majestic landscape, forging unforgettable memories amidst the blend of natural beauty and gastronomy that epitomizes the spirit of outdoor adventures in Lake Como.

The Best Time for Outdoor Adventures in Lake Como: Are Activities Accessible Throughout the Year?

The accessibility of outdoor adventures in Lake Como largely depends on the specific activity and the season, as weather conditions and seasonal changes in the region can significantly affect when and how these activities are best enjoyed. Here’s a quick guide to seasonal accessibility of activities:

Boat tours are generally available from spring through autumn, with reduced availability or closures during the winter months due to colder weather and less demand.

Kitesurfing in Dervio is best from late spring to early autumn when the wind conditions are most favorable. The activity might not be enjoyable during the winter due to colder temperatures and less consistent winds.

Scuba diving can be done year-round, but visibility and comfort levels are higher in the warmer months. Some divers do enjoy winter dives, equipped with proper wetsuits for the colder water.

Hiking is ideal from late spring to early autumn. Winter hiking is possible but requires proper equipment for snow and ice, and trails might be less accessible due to snow cover.

Paragliding is best in the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when thermal activity is higher for longer flights, and the weather is more predictable. Winter flights are possible but can be cold and subject to weather constraints.

Canyoning is predominantly a spring to autumn activity, especially from May to September, when water temperatures are warmer and water levels are optimal. It’s generally not recommended in winter due to cold water and the risk of high water flow.

Sailing is most popular from late spring through early autumn when the weather is warmer and the days are longer, allowing for beautiful sunset views. Winter sailing is less common due to shorter days and cooler temperatures.

Tips about the Weather and Seasons which You May Want to Consider when Planning Outdoor Adventures in Lake Como

Weather Considerations: The best times for most outdoor activities are during the warmer months (late spring to early autumn) when the weather is more conducive to outdoor adventures and the area’s natural splendor reaches its utmost peak.

Winter Activities: While some activities like hiking and scuba diving can be adapted for winter conditions, others are limited by weather, safety, and operational considerations.

Planning and Booking: Regardless of the season, it’s advisable to check availability and book in advance, especially for activities that are highly dependent on weather conditions or have limited slots.

In summary, while Lake Como offers a range of outdoor activities, their accessibility varies throughout the year, primarily influenced by weather conditions and seasonal changes.

FAQs

Follow Georgina on Facebook, Instagram, and on Pinterest for more Travel Insights and Destination Inspiration. Subscribe to Stay Connected.

Pin It to Pinterest