SAN GIOVANNI KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle Bellagio: Launch from San Giovanni past Villa Melzi toward secret beaches and the Ponte del Diavolo
One- to three-hour kayak rentals from San Giovanni let paddlers choose a northward glide past Villa Melzi or a southern route past private villas and hidden beaches.
Paddle Bellagio: Launch from San Giovanni past Villa Melzi toward secret beaches and the Ponte del Diavolo.
From the piazza at San Giovanni, kayakers set out into the clear waters off Bellagio to explore a compact string of gardens, villas and small beaches. Rentals run one to three hours and offer two distinct arcs: paddle north alongside the sculpted Villa Melzi gardens past Riverside Beach and Loppia, or head south to browse the façades of private properties—Villa La Placida, Villa Ada, Villa Orlando and Villa Lucertola—before slipping into tucked-away coves and the exclusive Ponte del Diavolo Beach.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
San Giovanni departure point
Rentals begin at San Giovanni, the practical gateway for short, scenic paddles that frame Bellagio’s shorelines and nearby gardens.
Villa Melzi and Riverside Beach
A northbound paddle takes you past the sculpted Villa Melzi gardens, with Riverside Beach and the small Loppia stretch punctuating the route.
Private villas and hidden coves
Heading south reveals a procession of private properties—Villa La Placida, Villa Ada, Villa Orlando and Villa Lucertola—and secluded beaches that lead toward the exclusive Ponte del Diavolo Beach.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
The outing compresses the best of Bellagio’s shoreline into one to three hours of steady paddling: choose a northward loop for manicured garden views and small beaches, or point south to thread between private villas and discover tucked-away stretches that feel like a local secret.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental is for
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Rentals are offered in one- to three-hour increments.
Meet at Piazza San Giovanni, 22021 Bellagio.
Operated by Lake Tour Bellagio.
Paddlers may choose a northbound route past Villa Melzi or a southbound route past several private villas and hidden beaches.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long are kayak rentals?
Rentals run one to three hours.
Where do I meet to start the rental?
The meeting point is Piazza San Giovanni, 22021 Bellagio.
Is there an age minimum to rent a kayak?
Yes—participants must be 18 years of age or older.
Who operates the kayak rentals?
The rentals are operated by Lake Tour Bellagio.
What landmarks and beaches will I pass?
Expect to pass Villa Melzi, Riverside Beach and Loppia on the north route; Villa La Placida, Villa Ada, Villa Orlando, Villa Lucertola and hidden beaches leading to Ponte del Diavolo Beach on the south route.