The cycling journey to discover the Lombardy region continues. With its beauties and the many opportunities to play sports… even in the water
Alps and lakes characterize a good part of tourism in Lombardy. In addition to Como, Lake Garda stands out, the largest in Italy. A special place full of cultural attractions, but also of proposals active, ideal for those who love sports, such as cycle touring, windsurfing and sailing. It was precisely from the desire to discover the area by doing sport that it began the third stage of “The Lombardy Express”a tour in Lower Po Valley which takes place in four iconic places of this Italian region. Guiding us on this journey is the Olympic champion, Antonio Rossitestimonial of the initiative, who covered all the stages by bike.
By bike From Lake Garda to Mantua
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Cycling lovers can take advantage of the Mincio cycle path. Departure from Desenzano sul Garda and I arrive at Mantua: all about 44km, drawn along the river banks. The route is well signposted and with several refreshment points. A detail that also makes it suitable for families or less trained cycle tourists; the distance, in fact, is not prohibitive and can be covered in one day without problems. It should be noted that, at the height of Monzambanoin the province of Mantua, the cycle path changes sides.
The dam that regulates the waters of Mincio river allows switching from right to left side. In the center of the small village it is possible to visit the parish church of San Micheal, consecrated in 1768. Without forgetting the famous Castle, located on the Morainic hills. Always staying on Lake Garda the route from is also recommended Lemon leads to the border with Trentino. The stretch of cycle path is suspended at a height of 50 meters above lake level, for a truly evocative experience!
WINDSURFING, CANOEING and… HANG-GLIDING
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The Lake Garda It also lends itself to other sporting activities. Obviously, the disciplines that take place in water, such as windsurfing and canoeing. Sailing boat enthusiasts, however, will be able to try their hand at the route Hundred milesa famous regatta starting from the marina of Bogliaco. Without forgetting also activities such as sport fishing. Furthermore, for those who want to experience the pleasure of flying, they can try tandem paragliding to discover Lake Garda from above, thanks to instructors and specialized structures present in the area.
FROM SPORT TO ART
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The third stage of “Il Lombardia” takes us to discover Mantuawhich became famous for being the birthplace of the Latin poet Virgil, the author of the poem Aeneid and the guide chosen by Dante Alighieri in his Divine Comedy. The beautiful city is embraced by three lakes, created by Mincio, which give it a timeless charm. In the Middle Ages, the city acquired splendor under the Canossa family, followed by the dominion of the Bonacolsi. Between 1328 and 1707, Mantua came under the control of Gonzagawhich made it one of the most important centers in Europe from an artistic and cultural point of view.
The traces of its glorious past are represented by the architectural jewels of Palazzo Te, The Ducal Palacethe Cathedral dedicated to St. Peter (Duomo) built starting from a Romanesque style and gradually redesigned with Gothic inserts. Leon Battista Alberti, famous architect and intellectual of the Renaissance, designed the Basilica of Sant’Andrea and the church dedicated to San Sebastiano. The view is also spectacular Piazza delle Erbe, the Palazzo della Ragione, the Clock Tower with the lunar cycles and the Museum of Time. Also unique is the Bibiena Scientific Theatre, an 18th century jewel inaugurated by a young Mozart. Without forgetting the historic Gonzaga gardens which gave life to the new “Park You” of Mantua, with equipped routes for those who are active. To discover on foot and by bike…
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