profile
map
technical info
The route is rolling and rough, especially in the final part, where it reaches Lake Garda. Starting in the plain north of Milan, it crosses many urban areas, where roundabouts, traffic islands and miscellaneous street furniture will be the most common impediments. Before Brescia, the route approaches Lake Iseo and takes in climbs up the Passo Tre Termini, Lumezzane and Passo di Sant’Eusebio, then descends towards Lake Garda with some final kicks suitable for possible finisseurs.
Final kilometres
After the final undulations, there is a short punchy bit (up to 12%) at the last kilometre.
start / finish
final kilometres
itinerary timetable
tourist info
Host city:
Cesano Maderno
Overview
Cesano Maderno belongs to the province of Monza. The old town is a treasure chest of splendour, with churches and historical buildings such as the church of Santa Maria della Frasca, the Palazzo Arese Borromeo (which was visited by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1797), the 18-century neoclassical Palazzo Arese Jacini, the Baroque triumphal gate to the historic centre, and the beautiful conservation area of the Italian League for Bird Protection.
Speciality food
Traditional local specialties include walnuts and hazelnuts grown on the hills around Brianza, and exquisite cheeses such as quartirolo, stracchino and gorgonzola. Traditional dishes include asparagi alla lombarda, and uccelletti ai formaggi, with a slice of chocolate and mascarpone cake to end the meal, paired with a glass of the local Pincianello wine.
Manerba del Garda
Overview
Manerba del Garda is a town in the province of Brescia, surrounded by the lush greenery of the morainic hills of the Valtenesi. According to legend, Manerba was founded in honour of Minerva, the goddess of arts, who came to hide in this beautiful valley, where she planted her olive trees.
Towering over the urban area is the massive Rocca, a rocky promontory dropping sheer into the lake, where a fortress – now reduced to just its foundations – once stood.
Speciality food
Traditional products include olio del Garda (olive oil), and wines such as Bardolino and Bianco di Custoza, that are the perfect match to fish dishes (pike, perch and tench) seasoned with herbs and citrus fruit from the lake.
