Holiday ideas

Windsurfing, kitesurfing and windfoiling on Lake Como

South of the Alps, Lake Como is a popular spot for surfing – from classic windsurfing and kitesurfing to modern disciplines such as windfoiling. Compared to Lake Garda, Lake Como is still an “insider tip” and not as crowded. Due to the size of the lake, you also have plenty of space and reliable wind conditions from late morning.

Reliable wind conditions
Permitted everywhere on the lake
Surfing, kitesurfing and windfoil schools

Lake Como, Italy - June 9th, 2018: Instructor and students wearing wetsuits on the cold water of Lake Como learning how to windsurf on a beautiful summer day

Tips for surfing, kitesurfing and windfoiling

Facts: Ideal wind conditions

With an area of 146 km², Lake Como is one of the three largest lakes in Italy (Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore and Lake Como) and is easily recognisable by its Y-shape. The lake is completely enclosed by the mountains of the Alps. The lake is Europe’s deepest lake, about 50 km long and 4.4 km wide at its widest point. The lake is divided into four areas. Alto Lario is located in the north, Lecco in the south-east, Centro Lago in the centre and Como in the south-west.

The Alto Lario area is home to the most popular spots for water sports. The reliable thermal winds, especially the Breva from the south, provide perfect conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing and wind foiling from late morning onwards. In the morning, the Tivano wind blows from the north and develops its strongest force in the south.

The most popular spots for windsurfing on Lake Como

Surfing is generally permitted anywhere on the lake. The most popular entry points are in the north in Colico and Gera Lario, as well as on the western shore from Domaso to Cremia. This is where all water sports come together and a real hotspot for windsurfing is in Domaso.

Kitesurfers, windsurfers and windfoilers share the windy zone in the north, but they won’t get in each other’s way as there is plenty of space on this part of Lake Como.

Kitesurfing on Lake Como

The top spots in the north offer reliable Breva winds from midday onwards, usually of moderate strength – ideal for kitesurfing. At the most important spots, you will also find German-speaking VDWS kitesurfing schools offering lessons and equipment hire.

Wind foiling on Lake Como

The open sections at Domaso, Colico and Gera Lario are particularly recommended for wind foilers. Here, the combination of thermal wind and plenty of space provides ideal conditions for ‘flying’ over the water. Beginners will find gentle areas to practise, while advanced foilers can perfect their foil technique here.

Surfing, kite surfing and windfoil schools

There are schools for windsurfing, kitesurfing and windfoiling in many places around Lake Como. Here you can take lessons and hire equipment. There are also German-speaking VDWS surf schools at the most important spots on Lake Como, especially in the north and on the western shore.