Lombardy's lakes have winds as regular as clockwork, making them among the best places in Europe for windsurfing and kitesurfing; the alpine valleys have crystal-clear streams and some of the most famous canyons in European canyoning. Here are the best spots, with the winds, the level required and the rules you need to know.
Each number matches a spot in the list.
No spots match the filters: try widening them.
For each spot: level, best time and the winds that make it calm or best avoided.
A small delta at the foot of the cliffs on Lake Garda's western shore, which has become one of the best places on the lake for kitesurfing and windsurfing thanks to its reliable winds.
Windyes Pelèr in the morning, Ora in the afternoon · no Windless days or thunderstorms
Full details →The northern part of Lake Como, where the valley widens and the Breva blows every summer afternoon: the lake's kingdom of windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing.
Windyes Breva in the afternoon; SUP in the morning on a calm lake · no Sudden summer thunderstorms
Full details →Circling Monte Isola by kayak, or the short stretch to the islets of San Paolo and Loreto, with the fishing villages seen from the water.
Windyes Mornings with a calm lake · no Windy afternoons, thunderstorms
Full details →A side valley of the Valchiavenna with some of the most famous canyoning gorges in Europe: clear green water, natural slides and jumps into the granite.
Windyes Normal level after dry days · no Thunderstorms or rain upstream
Full details →A granite valley with meadows, waterfalls and pools of emerald-green water: in summer the brave swim in the potholes of the Mello stream.
Windyes Hot, dry days · no After thunderstorms (strong current)
Full details →Before choosing a spot, check where the wind is coming from: the same cove can be a swimming pool or a place to avoid.
Lakes and rivers have different rules from the sea: they are set by municipalities, river basin authorities and park managers. Here is the general picture: before going in the water, always check the local rules.
Kitesurfing and windsurfing are only allowed in the zones and at the times set by local ordinances, often launching from authorised clubs and schools: ferries and motorboats also use the lakes.
The Val di Mello is a nature reserve: no wild camping, no fires and no soap in the stream. Swimming in the pools is tolerated, but the water is icy and the current can be strong.
Canyoning in the Val Bodengo and the other gorges is done with licensed guides or with proper canyoning skills: ropes, wetsuits and helmets are essential, and the water level changes with thunderstorms.
Scheduled ferries and motorboats ply the large lakes: in a kayak or on a SUP stay close to shore, away from landing stages and ferry routes, and only cross where the lake is narrow.
Always wear a life jacket in a kayak and a leash on a SUP: if you fall off, the wind pushes the board away faster than you can swim.
Alpine lakes and streams stay cold even in high summer: falling into water below 15 °C saps your strength within minutes.
Many Alpine rivers are controlled by hydroelectric plants: the level can rise suddenly when dams release water or after a storm upstream. Go rafting and canyoning only with licensed guides.
Single emergency number: 112.
