Overview

Cycle 350 miles between these two landmark cities whilst completing two iconic cycling climbs. We start at Lake Geneva and head into the Swiss Alps, past the UCI Centre, continuing up and eventually over the mountains and their stunning scenery to descend into Italy and its magnificent lakes. The ride culminates in an epic climb up out of Lake Como to the Madonna del Ghisallo; followed by a thrilling downhill approach to our final celebration in the fashion capital of Milan.

Start:
21/05/2022
Finish:
26/05/2022
Location(s):
Switzerland / Italy
Duration:
6

About the charity

Berkeley Homes Events details

Cycle 350 miles between these two landmark cities whilst completing two iconic cycling climbs. We start at Lake Geneva and head into the Swiss Alps, past the UCI Centre, continuing up and eventually over the mountains and their stunning scenery to descend into Italy and its magnificent lakes. The ride culminates in an epic climb up out of Lake Como to the Madonna del Ghisallo; followed by a thrilling downhill approach to our final celebration in the fashion capital of Milan.

More events from this charity

Itinerary - 6 days

Day 1 Saturday, 21 May 2022
Registration

We’ll meet in our Geneva hotel where we will check-in and register for the challenge. Here you’ll have chance to meet the crew before going to a local restaurant in the City.

Day 2 Sunday, 22 May 2022
Geneva to Sierre

We’ll meet in our Geneva hotel where we will check-in and register for the challenge. Here you’ll have chance to meet the crew before going to a local restaurant in the City.

Day 3 Monday, 23 May 2022
Sierre to Mergozzo

Mountain Day! We Leave Sierre to head through the valley past the Pfyn-finges Nature Park on a fairly flat (few steep ramps to contend with) morning through small towns. The route then really starts to climb after mile 30, heading up the famous Simplon Pass. With a climb distance of 12miles averaging 6% this will be a climb to warm your legs. Upon reaching the summit we will have lunch and then descend into Italy! 82 miles (approx)

Day 4 Tuesday, 24 May 2022
Mergozzo to Como

Day 4 sees us skirting the beautiful Italian lakes with plenty of opportunities to sample local coffees and gelato. We’ll stop for lunch on the shore of Lake Maggiore. If the weather is nice, take a dip. After lunch, the route takes us through the Italian countryside past Lake Lugano before heading south bringing us to the edge of Lake Como, continuing into the city to end the day in Como itself. 88 miles (approx)

Day 5 Wednesday, 25 May 2022
Como to Milan

The final day of cycling, with a small mountain thrown in! We will leave Como following a road that twists up, down and around the edge of the lake to the glamorous town of Bellagio. Leaving Ballagio we start the climb up the patron saint of cycling at the Madonna del Ghisallo, shorter than the Simplon, but a famous climb that often features in the Giro d’Italia, this is a climb to enjoy! With a museum at the summit worth visiting, maybe you’ll even have time to buy some memorabilia or a new jersey? Enjoy a 10 mile descent before the terrain levels out to start the final leg into Milan; finishing at Al Duomo. In the evening we’ll enjoy a traditional Milanese meal in the city to celebrate our achievements. 91 miles (approx)

Day 6 Thursday, 26 May 2022
Last Day

Today is yours to enjoy and explore Milan and make your onward journeys home.

FAQ's

How will I follow the route?

You will need a GPS device to follow the route for this trip, we will provide downloadable GPX files ahead of the event. If you don’t have a Garmin you are able to use your phone to follow the route, you will just need to download the Strava app. Just remember to bring a portable charging device with you to keep your phone charged throughout the day. If you don’t already have one, we advise purchasing a device as soon as you sign up so that you can train with your device prior to the ride. This will help with your preparation and confidence when it comes to the challenge.

What will happen to my luggage during cycling days?

Your main luggage will be transported for you each day. You will just need to carry the kit you need for that day including water, sun cream, snacks, camera, waterproofs etc.

Is the trip for me?

Definitely! These trips are all fantastic challenges for anyone wanting to do something amazing for a great cause! There will be lots of like-minded people taking part who’re just as passionate about cycling as you are, all looking for the challenge of a lifetime and of course to meet new friends. Some people come with friends or family but most people come on their own so what are you waiting for? Sign up today for a fantastic experience and the opportunity to make lifelong friends

Is there an age restriction?

You need to be 18 years old or older to participant in our overseas trips. If you are under 18, you may still be able to participate but you will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Before anyone under 18 is accepted onto a challenge we would need to have a discussion so you can make an informed decision on the suitability of the challenge. If you call us in the office we can offer this advice.

I've never done anything like this before, what should I expect?

Most people who sign up to our overseas challenges have also never done anything like this before! You’ll be well supported from the minute you sign up right through to the challenge itself, but it’s important you come with an open mind. Due to the destinations we travel to, things don’t always run as smoothly as they would at home so a relaxed attitude is the best in these situations.