Which Rowing Wellness Retreat in Italy to Choose?

It’s a dilemma. You love the idea of participating in a rowing wellness retreat in Italy this year. They both sound so good. So, which one? Cannero on Lago Maggiore? Or perhaps Bellagio on Lago di Como? Answer some easy questions to decide on the rowing wellness retreat best suited to you.

First, some things are the same for both destinations:

1. Amazing rowing on a beautiful lake.
2. Centre-based accommodation – unpack once for the duration.
3. Stunning scenery.
4. Welcoming and supportive tour leader, guides and support crew. Same wonderful people on both trips.
5. Daily wellness sessions and targeted health coaching to help you slow down and practice the secrets of la dolce vita – the sweet life in Italy.
6. Delicious fresh, local food and wine, exceptional coffee and pastries, and regional specialties to savor slowly, Italian-style.

Do you like cooking?

If yes, then the choice is clear – Cannero on Lago Maggiore. We have a private class booked with chef Marco to teach us how to prepare an authentic Italian meal – one of the best “souvenirs” you can bring home to friends and family! No cooking class possible in Bellagio.

Do you like shopping?

Best opt for Bellagio then. Cannero is a lovely town, but there are fewer shops. Not a huge number in Bellagio, but some choice boutiques. Silk scarves from Como are a speciality and always fit into a full suitcase!

Do you like gardens?

That is a tougher choice. On the Lago Maggiore retreat we take a guided walk through the extensive gardens at Villa Taranto. The flowers are beautiful and we will be there in June. The Bellagio retreat features the gardens at Villa Serbelloni. It will be October, so few flowers but smaller crowds as well. Perhaps some autumn foliage?

Are you intrigued by villas?

In that case, head straight to Bellagio on Lago di Como. Our first row takes us south along the eastern shore of the lake to Lenno. It is a short walk to our guided visit of Villa Balbianello. This spectacular villa has a fascinating history and was chosen by director George Lucas the setting for the marriage of Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala on the planet Naboo for Episode II “Star Wars: Attack of the Clones”, as well as the background to a scene of the 007 series, Casino Royale.

Do you insist on a lakefront hotel?

Choose Cannero on Lago Maggiore. We can’t guarantee a room overlooking the lake since our lovely hotel has a complex of rooms including some around the swimming pool. But the hotel is on the lakefront, with views from the dining and breakfast room. Our hotel in Bellagio is modern and cosmopolitan. Many (but not all) rooms have a view of the lake, just from higher up. You need to climb some stairs to get to the hotel.

Do you like to swim or relax by a pool?

You can guess the answer from the previous question. Cannero it is.

What is your preference for our welcome aperitif location?

Two very different, equally wonderful choices! For the Lago Maggiore retreat, our briefing will be on a private boat for an evening cruise with prosecco and appetizers. In Bellagio we head to the rooftop terrace of a lakeside hotel to learn about the tour and watch the sun go down with glass in hand.

Do you want to be picked up and dropped off at Malpensa airport?

We are happy to offer this service for the Cannero Lago Maggiore retreat. The van would also be able to make a stop at a main train station. We anticipate that people will be arriving from different directions for the Bellagio retreat. Don’t worry, we provide very detailed instructions on how to get to your hotel.

Do you like gelato?

Okay, it’s a draw – you can enjoy delicious Italian ice cream (not to forget coffee) equally well in both Cannero and Bellagio. Cannero has a slight advantage – we know of an excellent gelateria on the route from the rowing club to the hotel.

When can you travel?

The Lago Maggiore Rowing Wellness Retreat will take place 03 – 09 June 2023. Bellagio Rowing Wellness Retreat is 02 – 07 October 2023. The weather for the June retreat on Lake Maggiore will be quite warm and during peak tourist season. The October retreat in Bellagio will be on the chilly side but it’s after peak season so we’ll enjoy fewer tourists.

So, which one will it be?