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Como Tour Stage 3: Lago di Lugano

Writer's picture: Matt FantasticMatt Fantastic

Updated: Nov 10, 2019

I awoke on the morning of the 3rd day to the sound of my window shutters rattling and shaking. It was undoubtedly blowing a hooley, to coin a sailing phase for strong and gusty wind. With somewhat concerned faces, me and my trusty roommate Andy H got ready for breakfast to see what plans were afoot.


Rather than discussing the intricacies of route changes and suitable clothing, most of the conversation centred around who sang what and when during the after-hours karaoke session that a number of hardier Wheelers had stayed up for. Names such as Transvision Vamp, Billy Joel, Queen and Serge Gainsbourg were banded about, although the latter seemed to have been a controversial choice.


However, the Tour Committee were obviously on the ball as Stolli announced an update – the start would be delayed and the route shortened to avoid the sections most exposed to the wind. This cut the length of the ride down from 110km to 60km and also meant we only did the first couple of hundred metres of ascending of the second climb. My Tour-weary legs were quietly relieved. A few Wheelers chose at this point to walk rather than cycle to lunch.


My nervousness about the conditions were little assuaged by spending the first 12km hurtling alongside Lake Como, with waves crashing apocalyptically on the banks and sending spray flying through the air. The tailwind did at least save my legs for later! Steve Sharrocks unfortunately had a cable mechanical that was swiftly sorted by the ever-trusty support team (thanks as ever to Sebastien and Zizou for their consistent help), although it did leave Steve making the ascent with a 25t cassette.


After shrewdly removing a few layers (ie I copied what other more experienced members of my group were up to), we set off on what was now the big climb of the day, an ascent of 650m or so up the Valvarrone. After the first few switchbacks, we were soon into a climbing groove and the wind died down almost completely. The views down to Lake Como were spectacular. Spirits were high and the banter amicable as we closed in on the summit and the much-needed coffee stop at Bar Centrale in San Fedele Intelvi. Andy H also suffered the day’s second broken cable here and he required a swift bike swap. In the café, I observed an older group looking at us bemusedly given the weather outside, whilst supping a quiet glass (or two) of wine.


The swooping curves down to the banks of Lake Lugano gave a chance to practice cornering. With the exception of the odd gust wind, the Bianchi bike felt secure underneath. Lugano itself appeared calmer compared to Lake Como. After some navigational delays, we were caught up by the last group and cycled to the Restaurante Solitaria in Carlazzo for lunch. Everyone enjoyed a much needed meal of Antipasto di Bresciola, followed by Pizzoccheri and finally Macedonia fresca, all washed down by some fine wine.

The Tour Committee even managed to organise for the sun to shine after lunch, so the final briefing was held on the patio. The final yellow jersey was awarded to Andy G for his unusual and magnetic attraction to tunnels during the previous day’s tour around Lake Como. All that remained was to polish a final few celebratory kilometres off on the bike.


On arrival back in Menaggio, the ever-helpful Tim S was on hand to guide us back to the hotel. After returning the bikes, the group enjoyed a beer by the pool, before wandering around Menaggio. After more drinks, we had one final Italian blow-out meal in a stunning restaurant overlooking Lake Como, before returning to the hotel bar to drink stocks dry.


The final day of the tour was a memorable one for me, encompassing two stunning lakes. It also demonstrated the ability of the Tour Committee to overcome the weather issues by successfully refining the route, and yet still deliver a wonderful day of riding. My thanks goes to all involved in the organisation of this years’ Tour, although special mention to Tim Stephens who laid on such wonderful food and accommodation.


Rex Stonehouse

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