Active Pursuits

The Bellagio region has a great outfitter that can treat you to some light adventurous exploration for decent prices. It runs mountain-bike treks, horseback rides through panoramic mountain passes, kayak excursions around the lake, canyoning (a combination of hiking, swimming, rappelling, and, well, jumping up and down a river gorge), and tandem paragliding lasting anywhere from an hour to 2 days. The price starts around 45€. Contact the Cavalcalario Club, Loc. Gallasco 1, Bellagio (tel. 031-964-814, cellphone 339-530-8138; www.bellagio-mountains.it), for more information.

Menaggio -- The lido, at the north end of town, has an excellent beach, as well as a pool, and is open late June to mid-September daily 9am to 7pm. For information on water-skiing and other activities, contact Centro Lago Service, in the Grand Hotel Victoria along the lakeside Via Castelli (tel. 0344-320-03). Also ask at the hostel about boat and bike rentals, which are available to nonguests during slow periods.