Gravel Tour Through the Briantei Lakes – Loop Route
With this tour, you will explore the Triangolo Lariano, an area located between the two branches of Lake Como. This region is not only breathtaking for its stunning landscapes but is also highly interesting from a geological and morphological perspective.
The smaller water basins nestled between Lake Como and the Alps are mostly of glacial origin. If we take a leap back in time—over a million years ago—we discover that this area was covered by vast glacial tongues that shaped the Brianza region. Today, we can ride in peace along paved roads and fun gravel trails while admiring this fascinating natural heritage.
Departure and First Lakes
The starting point for this spectacular ride through nature and charming towns is Lecco train station.
Once you hop on your bike, you’ll cross the waters of Lake Como (Lecco branch) and head toward Lake Annone. You can admire the lake from its northern shore, following the historic trail that runs along the slopes of Mount Cornizzolo.
Next, you’ll reach Lake Segrino, which you will circumnavigate along its scenic cycling and pedestrian path. This calm and enchanting lake has inspired many 19th-century writers.
Riding Through Hidden Gems
After tackling the first gentle elevation gains, you’ll arrive in Erba, where you’ll face a climb to access an exciting foothill trail.
Returning to paved roads, you’ll reach Lake Montorfano, the smallest of the Triangolo Lariano lakes. Its clear waters form a surprisingly round shape, reflecting the silhouette of Mount Orfano along with the rich surrounding vegetation.
With a thrilling descent, yet with the necessary caution, you’ll reach Lake Alserio, another small lake in the area. Its waters are covered in water lilies, surrounded by reeds, and visited only by non-motorized boats. This is a place where peace reigns supreme.
After just a few pedal strokes, you’ll already be on the shores of Lake Pusiano, the largest of the Briantei lakes, with a perimeter of about eleven kilometers. It is also the most visited. Many tourists and outdoor enthusiasts come here for the numerous activities available: from boat tours and scenic walks to relaxing fishing sessions and canoeing adventures—there’s something for everyone.
Final Lakes and the Return to Lecco
Before heading back to Lecco, you will again pass Lake Annone and reach the shores of Lake Garlate. This historically significant lake is mentioned in Alessandro Manzoni’s novel The Betrothed. In the opening pages, the famous writer vividly describes this picturesque basin. Though he does not explicitly name it, Lake Garlate is unmistakable, as it sits at the end of Lake Como’s Lecco branch, where the Adda River widens significantly.
To return to Lecco train station, you will cross the Azzone Visconti Bridge, which Manzoni also references:
“The bridge, which joins the two banks, seems to make this transformation even more visible to the eye, marking the point where the lake ends and the Adda resumes, only to regain the name of ‘lake’ where the banks, once again receding, allow the water to spread into new inlets and bays.”
A Ride Through History and Nature
The Lombard Prealps stand watchfully over the lakes you’ll encounter along this itinerary. On clear days, you can see some of the most famous peaks, such as Mount Cornizzolo and the Grigne, reflecting in the crystal-clear waters of the lakes.
This breathtaking panorama is certainly a worthy reward for your efforts! 🚴♂️💨
