Lake Iseo Hiking Tour
Overview
Tucked away in the picturesque landscapes of northern Italy, the Lake Iseo region is a hidden treasure, offering visitors a blend of serene beauty and captivating charm. Picture a place where crystal-clear waters meet pebbled shores, surrounded by rolling hills draped in vineyards and olive groves. This is Lake Iseo—a tranquil retreat that enchants the senses and leaves a lasting impression on those who explore it.
At its heart lies Monte Isola, the largest inhabited island in European lakes, where colorful boats, narrow streets, stone villages, and the scent of the lake create a unique atmosphere. Meander through olive groves and wooded paths leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola, a hilltop spot offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Walk along the “Via Valeriana,” a medieval route for pilgrims and merchants that traces the eastern shore of the lake. This scenic trail winds through olive groves, meadows, woodlands, and charming villages, providing uninterrupted vistas of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.
Lake Iseo Hiking Tour Overview
Tucked away in the picturesque landscapes of northern Italy, the Lake Iseo region is a hidden treasure, offering visitors a blend of serene beauty and captivating charm. Picture a place where crystal-clear waters meet pebbled shores, surrounded by rolling hills draped in vineyards and olive groves. This is Lake Iseo—a tranquil retreat that enchants the senses and leaves a lasting impression on those who explore it.
At its heart lies Monte Isola, the largest inhabited island in European lakes, where colorful boats, narrow streets, stone villages, and the scent of the lake create a unique atmosphere. Meander through olive groves and wooded paths leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola, a hilltop spot offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Walk along the “Via Valeriana,” a medieval route for pilgrims and merchants that traces the eastern shore of the lake. This scenic trail winds through olive groves, meadows, woodlands, and charming villages, providing uninterrupted vistas of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.
Discover Monte Isola - the largest inhabited lake island in Europe, featuring charming stone villages, olive groves, and panoramic views from the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola.
Follow this historic Via Valeriana trade route along Lake Iseo’s eastern shore, winding through olive groves, small villages, and offering stunning lake vistas.
Marvel at the unique geological phenomenon of the Pyramids of Zone, where towering earth spires, known as “fairy chimneys,” create an awe-inspiring landscape.
Experience the picturesque pastel-colored villages of Lake Iseo and indulge in the famous wines from the Franciacorta region.
Trip map for Lake Iseo Hiking Tour
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Itinerary for Lake Iseo Hiking Tour
Arrive in Paratico/Sarnico
Arrive at the lakeside towns of Paratico or Sarnico on the shores of Lake Iseo. After checking in at your hotel, enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the town and soaking in the scenic views of the rugged mountains across the lake.
Walk from Sarnico to Predore
Begin your tour with a warm-up walk along the southwestern shores of Lake Iseo. Follow a quiet path from Sarnico, offering panoramic views of the Sebino area as you pass through chestnut groves and forests. Reach the plateau of Mt. Predore for stunning views of southern Lake Iseo before gently descending back towards the lake. Return to Sarnico by ferry or bus.
Transfer to Iseo and Walk to Pilzone
After a morning transfer to Iseo, start your walk near the Torbiere del Sebino Nature Reserve. Traverse meadows and chestnut woods along the eastern shore, pausing at natural terraces with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. Gradually descend to the village of Pilzone, from where you’ll take the train to Sulzano, your base for the next two nights.
Monte Isola Round Walk
Take a ferry to Monte Isola, Europe’s largest lake island. Begin your exploration in Peschiera Maraglio and walk counterclockwise around the island. Stroll through olive groves and charming hamlets, reaching the 600-meter-high peak with a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding Alps. Return to the harbor via a scenic ancient path and ferry back to Sulzano.
Choice of Walk and Train to Pisogne
Choose between two scenic walks:
- Walk A: Follow the ancient Via Valeriana from Sulzano to Marone, passing olive groves and hillside paths overlooking the lake. Descend to Marone for lunch before taking a train or ferry to Pisogne.
- Walk B: Take a short train ride to Marone and explore the Erosion Pyramids Nature Reserve, where towering earth spires create a unique landscape.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Pisogne
Ferry to Castro and Loop Walk
Take a short ferry ride to the historic village of Castro, dating back to Roman times. Begin a scenic loop walk around Mt. Clemo, enjoying panoramic views throughout. Explore the charming village or continue to Lovere before returning to Pisogne by ferry or bus.
Departure from Pisogne
After breakfast, your tour concludes as you say farewell to Lake Iseo. Depart via public transport or a pre-arranged private transfer to your next destination.
Reviews
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Dates and prices for Lake Iseo Hiking Tour
Solo Traveller
Single Room (2+)
Double/Twin Room
Triple Room
| Solo Traveller | Single Room (2+) | Double/Twin Room | Triple Room | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 1, 2025 to May 10, 2025 | $1,695USD | $1,525USD | $925USD | $725USD |
| May 11, 2025 to Sep 30, 2025 | $1,795USD | $1,595USD | $950USD | $750USD |
| Oct 1, 2025 to Oct 31, 2025 | $1,695USD | $1,525USD | $925USD | $725USD |
| Optional Extras: | ||||
| Printed trip documents:$50USD | ||||
What’s included for Lake Iseo Hiking Tour
Meals
6 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
This tour includes one personal transfer (day 3) and one luggage transfer (day 5). Any other transportation, such as arrival and departure, is not included.
Also included
- Digital information kit and app
- Taxes
Not Included
- Airport transfers
- Meals or transfers not mentioned as included
- Entry fees to local objects
Optional Extras
- Paperback trip documentation
- Trip extensions and hotel upgrades
- Airport transfers
Accommodation for Lake Iseo Hiking Tour
You stay in a 3* or 4* hotel located in the centre of the villages or directly on the lake side. All rooms have private en-suite bathroom and a continental breakfast is served every morning.
During high season, you might sleep in different accommodation to the ones indicated in the description. In some cases it is possible that your list of accommodation differs somewhat.
This means that start or end of the routes can be slightly altered. Therefore, you should check to see if your accommodation is the same as that mentioned in this programme. If not, you must be alert at the start and end of the routes.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy and those looking to stay in single rooms will have to pay a supplement (already included in the listed prices).
Frequently asked questions for Lake Iseo Hiking Tour
How hard is the Lake Iseo Hiking Tour?
We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. The walks are along well trodden footpaths, however, the forest are trails not always well marked, You’ll also encounter cobbled paths and small sections on small country lanes.
Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Lake Iseo Hiking Tour?
6 breakfasts are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover walking. Get your travel insurance.
How do I get to Paratico/Sarnico to start this tour?
The nearest airports are Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY) in Bergamo (around 30 km away), Milan Linate Airport (LIN), and Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). From Bergamo, take a regional train to Palazzolo sull'Oglio. From there, a short taxi or bus ride (about 8 km) will take you to Paratico/Sarnico. There are also some direct buses operate from Bergamo and Brescia to Paratico/Sarnico. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes from Bergamo.
Is the Lake Iseo Hiking Tour in English?
Yes, the trip documentation is in English.
Where does the Lake Iseo Hiking Tour end?
The tour ends in Pisogne.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Italy?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Italy?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
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