SMALL OUTINGS, LOVELY DISCOVERIES

What shall we do today?

A morning on the water, something for the children or a day of culture: find a selection of ideas here. Open more destinations and practical details whenever you need them.

Local shopping
Lago d’Iseo

Nature & lake

Time by the water and walks with views. Distances and ascent help you choose a walk that suits your energy.

Prefer fewer climbs? Stroll along the water in Sarnico & Paratico
Boat tripHalf-day idea

Monte Isola

Take a boat to the island

The crossing is part of the pleasure. On Monte Isola, walk beside the water, explore little villages and pause with a lake view. Choose a route to suit your energy and interests.

Choose your own pace

From Tavernola’s ferry pier

Practical tips

Check both outward and return sailings in the current timetable. Paths to the island summit are much more demanding than a waterfront stroll. The map marks Tavernola’s landing stage.

Address / landmarkImbarcadero, Via Roma, Tavernola Bergamasca

By the waterChoose your own pace

Swimming in the lake

Small waterfront spots in Tavernola

Tavernola has small public bathing areas on Via Riva di Solto near the sailing club and on Via Sarnico near the tunnel. For a longer beach day, compare the equipped lidos around the lake.

Check access on site
Practical tips

The map marks the sailing club as a landmark. Check access, ground conditions and local notices; a public bathing area does not imply lifeguards. The residence’s shared pool is another option during its season. For a swimming day with a lawn and playground, consider the seasonal Lido Nettuno in Sarnico.

Address / landmarkCircolo Velico Tavernola, Via Riva di Solto 2, Tavernola Bergamasca

WalkingAbout 2 h · full circuit

Percorso Verde near Vigolo

A manageable walk through the hills

This circular route from Bratta follows forestry and farm tracks through the hills above the lake. A good choice if you fancy a walk and are comfortable with some climbing.

Some climbing4.8 km · +259 m

Start in Bratta · drive to the trailhead

Practical tips

Official figures: about 4.8 km, 259 m of ascent and 2 hours for the full circuit. Drive to Bratta first and wear sturdy shoes. Times start at the trailhead, not the apartment.

Address / landmarkLocalità Bratta, Vigolo

Get out on the waterSailing, SUP & motorboats
Get activeChoose your own pace

Sailing in Tavernola

See the lake under sail

Tavernola’s sailing club offers courses and private lessons for children, teenagers and adults. A lovely opportunity to try something new during your stay.

Arrange in advance
Practical tips

Children’s courses start at age 6 and require swimming ability. Ask the club about suitable courses, dates and the availability of a single lesson.

Address / landmarkCircolo Velico Tavernola, Via Riva di Solto 2, Tavernola Bergamasca

Get activeChoose your own pace

Paddleboarding in Predore

A little time out on the water

Whassup in Predore rents out paddleboards by the hour as well as for longer periods. Pair an active morning on the water with a relaxed stop in the neighbouring village.

Seasonal · weather-dependent
Practical tips

The provider includes a life jacket. Check opening, wind conditions and suitability for children in advance; beginners should get an introduction and start in calm conditions.

Address / landmarkWhassup Rental, Via Roma 3, Predore

Boat tripHalf-day idea

Hire a motorboat

Explore Lake Iseo at your own pace

Piantoni in Predore offers boats that, according to the operator, do not require a boating licence. A skippered trip is another option for a special outing together on the lake.

Seasonal · weather-dependent
Practical tips

Seasonal and weather-dependent. Check briefing, deposit, fuel costs and children’s life jackets. The operator does not allow mooring in other harbours, so do not plan unrestricted stops ashore.

Address / landmarkCantiere Nautico Piantoni, Via Sarnico 13, Predore

More walks in natureHillsides and the nature reserve
WalkingAbout 40 min · one way

Madonna di Cortinica

A short route with a real climb

From Tavernola’s parish church, historic paved paths and hillside scenery lead to the sanctuary. A rewarding little walk that brings you closer to local history.

Noticeable climb1.3 km · +215 m

Start in the village · from the parish church

Practical tips

Official one-way figures: about 1.3 km, 215 m of ascent and 40 minutes. Allow extra time for the return. Steps and gradients make this more strenuous than the distance suggests.

Address / landmarkChiesa di Santa Maria Maddalena, Tavernola Bergamasca

WalkingHalf-day idea

Iseo & Torbiere del Sebino

Reeds, waterbirds and a lakeside stroll

The nature reserve south of Iseo reveals another side of the lake landscape. Combine a walk on open paths with San Pietro in Lamosa monastery or a visit to Iseo.

Check access on site
Practical tips

Especially appealing in spring and autumn. Check the current trail map: nesting seasons and closures can affect routes. Wear sturdy shoes; the paths are for walkers only.

Address / landmarkMonastero San Pietro in Lamosa, Provaglio d’Iseo

Tavernola & shops

Explore the lanes, shop for something delicious and get to know the village. Find little outings and useful local addresses here.

Village strollShort visit

A stroll through Tavernola

From the harbour into the old lanes

Walk from the lake to the Torre dei Fenaroli clock tower and through its arch into the village centre. Around the parish church you will find narrow lanes and small shops. Add coffee, bread or a slice of cake for a relaxed outing.

Slopes & steps
Practical tips

The old centre rises above the lake and includes steps. Combine your stroll with shopping at Zatti or a visit to Via Pero. With younger children, add a playground stop in the public gardens on Via Roma.

Address / landmarkTorre Fenaroli, Tavernola Bergamasca

CultureShort visit

San Pietro

Romanino above the rooftops

The little church of San Pietro preserves frescoes by Renaissance painter Romanino. Its position above the village makes it an appealing stop for anyone who enjoys art and a short climb.

Noticeable climb
Practical tips

The paved footpath is steep. Check church opening with the local tourist information service before visiting; the interior is not always accessible.

Address / landmarkChiesa di San Pietro, Via San Pietro, Tavernola Bergamasca

Village strollChoose your own pace

Gallinarga

A small lakeside hamlet

Old houses and the church of San Giorgio give Gallinarga its own character. This part of Tavernola is a lovely choice for a quieter detour and another glimpse of village life.

Some climbing
Practical tips

The tourist board recommends the hillside footpath followed by Via Moia. The shore road is not a continuous promenade. The map marks the destination, not a walking route.

Address / landmarkGallinarga, Tavernola Bergamasca

Local shopping

Fresh breakfast supplies, ingredients for cooking and local treats for an evening in the garden.

Supermarket Vitali

Fresh bread and regional specialities
Description & address

Vitali stocks fresh rolls and bread, cheeses, cured meats and local specialities. There is also a butcher’s department and everyday groceries and drinks: handy for breakfast, an aperitivo in the garden or cooking in the apartment.

In the Cambianica district. Check the current business listing for opening times and possible lunch closures before shopping.

Address / landmarkVia Rivolta 6, 24060 Tavernola Bergamasca · Cambianica

Panificio Pasticceria Zatti Cornelio

Bread and sweet treats from Tavernola
Description & address

Pick up fresh bread, breakfast pastries and local cured meats and cheeses. Try sfongada, a soft sweet bake, or Tavernola’s traditional sour-cherry tart: lovely for breakfast or afternoon coffee in the garden.

Pass under the clock tower arch and follow Via Chiesa for about 50 metres. Check opening times before visiting.

Address / landmarkVia Chiesa 1, 24060 Tavernola Bergamasca

Macelleria Rinaldi

The butcher in the village centre
Description & address

For meals cooked in the apartment, Macelleria Rinaldi supplies meat for your holiday kitchen. The shop is on Via Pero, near the pharmacy, and fits easily into a shopping stroll.

Navigate using the business name: directories give different house numbers. Telephone to check opening times if needed.

Address / landmarkVia Pero, 24060 Tavernola Bergamasca

Farmacia Lago d’Iseo

A local pharmacy and care products
Description & address

For medicines, personal care and products for young children, Farmacia Lago d’Iseo is a useful stop in the village centre. You can also ask for pharmaceutical advice if something is needed during your stay.

Regular opening hours and out-of-hours duty vary. Call ahead if needed.

Address / landmarkVia Pero 1, 24060 Tavernola Bergamasca

Latteria Bronzone / Monti e Laghi

Cheese from the surrounding hills
Description & address

The Sarnico shop sells artisan cheeses from the local Monti e Laghi cooperative. Pick up something for a cheese board on a visit to town, then enjoy it with fresh bread in the garden.

This address is the Sarnico shop. The dairy is separately located at Via della Seradina 27 in Vigolo; guided visits with tastings require booking.

Address / landmarkCorso Europa 4, 24067 Sarnico

Good to know

An easier day out

The apartment is on a hillside: walking back from the lake means climbing. A car is useful for larger shopping trips. Always check the return sailing for boat outings.

Parking in the village

The apartment has its own garage. For a visit to the village below, the tourist board lists parking near the Oratorio, Via Valle 3. Follow local signs, charges and time limits.

Open map

A taste of the lake

The local “sardina” is a lake fish called agone. Traditionally dried, briefly grilled and often served with polenta, it has a distinctive flavour. “Sebino” is another name for Lake Iseo.

Day trips

Bergamo, Brescia and Franciacorta are three good starting points. More ideas are grouped by interest, from a short village visit to a longer day trip.

Food & wineHalf-day idea

Franciacorta

Vineyards and fine bubbles

Just south of the lake lies a distinctive wine region. Franciacorta DOCG uses traditional bottle fermentation, the method also associated with Champagne. A cellar visit, a good meal and vineyard scenery make a rewarding half-day outing.

Choose your own pace
Practical tips

Choose a winery and book the visit or tasting ahead. Arrange a driver who will not be drinking. The map marks Erbusco as a reference point, not a particular winery.

Address / landmarkFranciacorta, Erbusco

Piazza Vecchia in Bergamo’s upper town
CultureFull-day ideaUNESCO

Bergamo & Città Alta

Lanes, squares and Venetian walls

Bergamo’s upper town combines Piazza Vecchia, Santa Maria Maggiore and lovely views from the city walls. Leave time for coffee and a stroll. The Venetian fortifications have been UNESCO World Heritage since 2017.

Slopes & steps
Practical tips

Plan a day trip by car. Check parking and onward travel by bus or funicular first. The old town has cobbles and slopes; the map marks the attraction, not a car park.

Address / landmarkPiazza Vecchia, Bergamo

Palazzo della Loggia and its square in Brescia
CultureFull-day ideaUNESCO

Brescia & Santa Giulia

Roman remains and Italian squares

Combine Piazza della Loggia with Brixia and the Santa Giulia museum. The Roman archaeological area and San Salvatore–Santa Giulia have belonged to Italy’s Lombard UNESCO World Heritage site since 2011.

City walk
Practical tips

A day allows time for the old town and museum. Check opening and tickets with Brescia Musei. The map marks the museum; choose parking separately.

Address / landmarkMuseo di Santa Giulia, Via dei Musei 81/B, Brescia

Lake Iseo seen from Sarnico’s waterfront
Village strollHalf-day idea

Sarnico & Paratico

Waterfront walks, gardens and aperitivo

The bridge connects the two towns into one easy outing. Stroll through Parco delle Erbe Danzanti beside the water and stop for ice cream or aperitivo. The waterfront paths suit a day with little climbing.

Mostly level waterfront paths
Practical tips

Optional: Paratico’s Bosco dei Taxodi, with a wooden boardwalk of about 300 metres through bald cypresses. Check its opening and admission first. Choose your own walking distance.

Address / landmarkParco delle Erbe Danzanti, Paratico

Villages & historyLakeside towns, Roman remains & rock art
CultureFull-day ideaUNESCO

Rock art in Val Camonica

A journey into prehistory

Val Camonica’s rock engravings have been UNESCO World Heritage since 1979. Naquane park near Capo di Ponte is a good starting point, with figures and scenes from the distant past carved into the rocks.

Some uneven paths
Practical tips

Plan a full day. Paths are outdoors and partly uneven; wear sturdy shoes and choose suitable weather. Check park opening and tickets before setting off.

Address / landmarkParco Nazionale delle Incisioni Rupestri di Naquane, Capo di Ponte

CultureHalf-day idea

Lovere & Accademia Tadini

Half a day of lake views and art

Explore Lovere and add the basilica of Santa Maria in Valvendra or Accademia Tadini. The lakeside museum includes works by Antonio Canova and Francesco Hayez.

City walk
Practical tips

Check current visiting times for the museum and churches. Combining a town stroll with art also works well on a cooler day. In autumn and winter, also check the local events calendar for attractions such as light installations. Dates vary each year.

Address / landmarkAccademia Tadini, Via Tadini 40, Lovere

Village strollShort visit

Riva di Solto

A village visit beside the water

Little lanes, the harbour square and the promenade make Riva di Solto a lovely destination for a short visit. You can combine it with an outing to Lovere.

Short walks at the destination
Practical tips

This recommendation covers the village and its promenade. It does not confirm access to Bogn; check current local notices before extending your walk.

Address / landmarkPiazza Porto, Riva di Solto

CultureShort visit

Roman baths in Predore

History in the neighbouring village

Discover the remains of a Roman villa’s bathing complex in Predore. The old warm-air underfloor heating system is particularly intriguing. Combine a little history with a pause beside the lake.

Short walks at the destination
Practical tips

This is an archaeological site. Check visiting hours beforehand; it combines well with a trip to Sarnico.

Address / landmarkTerme Romane, Predore

With children & teenagersHands-on fun, theme park & riding

A simple day does not always need a big destination: a short boat trip or a village playground stop can be enough. Choose the outings below to suit age and interests.

Family timeFull-day idea

Archeopark in Boario

Hands-on prehistory

Recreated prehistoric settings and supervised activities bring the distant past to life at Archeopark. A good choice for curious children who prefer trying things to looking at displays.

Outdoors
Practical tips

Plan a family outing in suitable weather. Check family opening days and the activity programme; telephone booking is required. The park closes for winter.

Address / landmarkArcheopark, Località Gattaro 4, Darfo Boario Terme

Family timeFull-day idea

Leolandia

A big day for little explorers

Rides, shows and familiar children’s characters make Leolandia near Capriate particularly appealing to families with younger children. Set aside a full day for the visit.

Outdoors
Practical tips

Check the opening calendar and height restrictions for your chosen rides before booking. Allow for travel and admission costs; this is not a quick stop from the lake.

Address / landmarkLeolandia, Via Vittorio Veneto 52, Capriate San Gervasio

Get activeHalf-day idea

Horse riding in Franciacorta

Explore the countryside on horseback

Scuderia Crazy Horse in Erbusco offers guided rides, including options for beginners. An appealing outing for teenagers and adults keen to experience the area differently.

Ages 14+
Practical tips

The provider requires riders to be at least 14 and weigh under 95 kg. Discuss experience and a suitable ride when booking by phone, and confirm clothing and equipment.

Address / landmarkScuderia Crazy Horse, Via San Bernardino 3, Erbusco

Rainy & cooler daysSwimming, climbing, karting & spa

There is plenty to enjoy beyond the swimming season. Arrange suitable sessions for sporting activities; Santa Giulia in Brescia is another option for a quieter cultural day.

By the waterHalf-day idea

Swimming in Lovere

Time in the water on cooler days

Piscine di Lovere has heated indoor pools, including a shallow teaching pool. A useful option when the lake is too cold or the residence pool is closed.

Indoors
Practical tips

Check public swimming times and access to the small pool; lessons may occupy pools. Outdoor pools and slides are part of the summer offering.

Address / landmarkPiscine di Lovere, Via Giorgio Paglia 3/A, Lovere

Get activeHalf-day idea

Climbing in Paratico

Get moving, whatever the weather

Climbing Sebino has bouldering facilities and roped climbing routes. It is an indoor option for children and adults who want an active break from lakeside outings.

Arrange in advance
Practical tips

Arrange supervised instruction for beginners and children in advance. Ask about visitor access, minimum age, equipment and registration; do not assume drop-in taster sessions are available.

Address / landmarkClimbing Sebino, Paratico

MotorsportHalf-day idea

Bergamo Kart Indoor

Racing fun for teens and adults

The indoor kart circuit in Osio Sopra is an active alternative on a rainy day. Teenagers and adults can enjoy a few fast laps together.

Ages 12+ & 145 cm minimum
Practical tips

The operator requires a minimum age of 12 and height of 145 cm. Minors need a parent or written authorisation. Membership registration is required; check sessions and booking in advance.

Address / landmarkBergamo Kart Indoor, Via Vaccarezza 3, Osio Sopra

RelaxationFull-day idea

QC Spa San Pellegrino

A day to unwind

Warm pools and relaxation areas make San Pellegrino a choice for a deliberately slower holiday day. Especially appealing when you feel like taking a break from sightseeing.

Ages 14+
Practical tips

For adults and teenagers aged 14 and over. Plan a longer outing with the journey into Val Brembana and book admission. Check the provider’s full entry conditions.

Address / landmarkQC Spa San Pellegrino, San Pellegrino Terme

Longer day tripsMilan, Verona, Venice, Monza & winter mountains

Choose these destinations for a particular interest and set aside a full day. Include travel, admission and the return journey in your plans; Venice is the longest outing in this selection.

CultureFull-day idea

Milan

The Duomo, design and a city day

Explore the area around the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II on foot. Add a museum, a neighbourhood or some shopping rather than trying to fit everything into one day.

City walk
Practical tips

Rail option: drive to Rovato station, take a direct train to Milano Centrale, then continue by metro. Allow for driving, parking and the return train; avoiding city traffic is the main benefit. Check Trenord for current services.

Address / landmarkDuomo di Milano, Piazza del Duomo, Milano

CultureFull-day idea

Verona

The Arena, old town and lively squares

The Arena and the old town’s squares make Verona a rewarding longer day trip. Leave time for a stroll and a break beside the Adige.

City walk
Practical tips

Allow a full day including the longer drive. Check dates and tickets for Arena visits or performances. Choose parking outside the traffic-restricted historic centre.

Address / landmarkArena di Verona, Piazza Bra, Verona

CultureLong day trip

Venice

A special, longer day out

Canals, small squares and quieter lanes make Venice a memorable addition to a lake holiday if you are happy to spend a long day away.

Slopes & steps
Practical tips

Rail option: drive to Brescia and choose a direct long-distance train to Venezia Santa Lucia, in the historic city. Plan both trains, station access and current visitor rules together; an overnight stay may suit younger children better.

Address / landmarkStazione Venezia Santa Lucia, Venezia

MotorsportFull-day idea

Autodromo Nazionale Monza

A day out for motorsport fans

The historic Formula 1 circuit is worth considering beyond the Grand Prix, with other races and organised circuit tours. A special day trip for motorsport enthusiasts.

Arrange in advance
Practical tips

Plan around an event or a confirmed tour. Major races need much more time for traffic and access. Use trains and shuttles only according to that event’s travel arrangements; the station is not beside the circuit.

Address / landmarkAutodromo Nazionale Monza, Monza

Get activeFull-day idea

A snow day at Monte Pora

Head for the mountains in winter

When snow and lift operations allow, add a skiing day to your lake holiday. Ski schools and equipment hire also make a planned introduction possible.

Winter · check snow conditions
Practical tips

Allow a full day and a winding mountain drive. Check snow, open lifts and road conditions, and book lessons and equipment. Snow is not guaranteed and the resort is not at the lakeside.

Address / landmarkMonte Pora, Castione della Presolana