Getting out on Lake Como by kayak or canoe is the smartest way to experience Bellagio’s stunning waterfront.
Family-run operators offer intimate guided tours that put you up close to historic villas and secret coves you’d never see from shore. I especially love the sunset tours – paddling past the gold-tinted mountains while village lights start twinkling is unforgettable.
For independent types, rental options let you explore at your own pace. Most outfitters provide basic instruction, so even beginners can handle the calm morning waters.
These are my favorite kayak and canoe adventures around Bellagio.
Key Points
- Small-group guided kayak tours around the Bellagio peninsula offering panoramic views of Lake Como and the Alps.
- Intimate golden hour kayak tours along the Bellagio coastline, with highlights including high cliffs and scenic vistas.
- Sunset kayak tours from Loppia di Bellagio, showcasing breathtaking views of Villa Melzi d’Eril gardens and the lakeside.
- Stand-up paddle board rentals for independent exploration of hidden beaches and villa gardens along the Bellagio shoreline.
- Kayak rentals available for self-guided tours to discover Villa Melzi, Riverside Beach, and Villa La Placida.
Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour
What better way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Como than by kayak? Offering a unique perspective, the Small-Group Kayak Tour on Lake Como is a must-try activity. Lasting 1.5 hours, this guided tour takes you around the Bellagio peninsula, offering panoramic views of the lake and the Alps.
You’ll navigate past the iconic Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni and Rockefeller Foundation Park, reaching the center of Lake Como at Punta Spartivento. Throughout the journey, your knowledgeable guide will provide historical narration, bringing the area’s rich heritage to life.
The tour is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. All necessary equipment, including life jackets and a small dry bag, is provided.
With hotel pickup and drop-off included, the only thing you need to worry about is soaking in the stunning scenery. Rated 4.8/5 by previous guests, this kayak tour is a great value at $92.19 per person.
Read our full review: Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour Review
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Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour
The Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour on Lake Como offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking scenery of the lake during the most magical time of day.
This 1.5-hour tour takes a small group of no more than 4 participants on a journey from the Pescallo di Bellagio beach along the Rockefeller cliffs to the iconic Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni.
During the tour, you’ll discover the high cliffs of Bellagio and admire the panoramic views of Lake Como.
As you navigate along the lake, you’ll see the Villa Serbelloni and the Rockefeller Foundation Park on your left, and the picturesque coastline of Varenna on your right.
The tour includes a local guide, bottled water, backpack storage, and the use of a life jacket and small dry bag.
A map of the area is also provided.
While the tour is suitable for those in good physical and mental condition, it isn’t recommended for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, non-swimmers, or those over 65.
Read our full review: Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour Review
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Bellagio: Lake Como Sunset Kayak Villas Experience
Kayakers seeking a more tranquil experience on Lake Como can embark on the Bellagio: Lake Como Sunset Kayak Villas Experience. This 1.5-hour tour departs from Loppia di Bellagio, allowing participants to explore the lake’s serene waters after the afternoon boat traffic has subsided.
With a group size limited to 4 people, the tour offers an intimate and personalized adventure. Highlights include breathtaking views of the Villa Melzi d’Eril gardens and panoramic sunset vistas. Participants may also spot filming locations from popular movies, including “Casino Royale” and “Star Wars.”
A local guide provides safety instructions and accompanies the group throughout the tour. The tour is priced at $116.56 per person and can be booked with no upfront payment. Cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.
Equipment such as life jackets, dry bags, and maps are included, ensuring a comfortable and well-equipped experience on the water.
Read our full review: Bellagio: Lake Como Sunset Kayak Villas Experience Review
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Bellagio Lake Como: Stand up Paddle Rental
For a unique and leisurely way to explore the picturesque Lake Como, visitors can rent a stand-up paddle board in Bellagio. This 1-3 hour activity provides the opportunity to discover hidden beaches and the scenic Villa Melzi gardens. Priced from $38.15 per group of up to 1 participant, the stand-up paddle rental includes a dry bag and life jacket.
Paddlers can venture northward to Villa Melzi or south to uncover private properties and secluded beaches, combining sport with leisure for a memorable experience. The meeting point is the beach on the right side of the San Giovanni pier, and the activity is available in both English and Italian.
Reservations can be made with a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Based on 8 reviews, this stand-up paddle rental has an impressive 5/5 overall rating, attracting couples, friends, solo travelers, and families alike.
Read our full review: Bellagio Lake Como: Stand up Paddle Rental Review
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Bellagio Lake Como: Kayak Rental
Bellagio Lake Como offers visitors an opportunity to explore the picturesque lake by kayak. The rental starts from €44.00 per group of up to 2 participants and lasts 1-3 hours. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Paddlers can enjoy stunning scenery and discover hidden beaches. The experience includes exploring the Villa Melzi gardens, stopping at Riverside Beach, and discovering Villa La Placida and other private properties.
Kayakers can also enjoy the tranquility of Ponte del Diavolo Beach. The meeting point is the beach on the right side of the San Giovanni pier.
Recommended items include swimwear, lightweight shirt, wide-brimmed hat, high SPF sunscreen, and UV sunglasses. Based on 58 reviews, the experience has an overall rating of 4.7/5, with positive feedback on ease of use, friendly staff, and the beautiful starting point.
Dry bags, life jackets, and waterproof phone holders are provided, but the activity isn’t suitable for children under 2 or wheelchair users.
Read our full review: Bellagio Lake Como: Kayak Rental Review
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The Sum Up
Lake Como offers a variety of exciting kayak and paddle board experiences. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, sunset excursions, and rentals to explore the lake’s stunning vistas and historic villas. Whether it’s a small-group tour or a solo paddle, these activities provide an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of Bellagio and Lake Como.