The original Riva Iseo was first shown back at Cannes 2011 it has earned its place as an enduring modern classic Around 70 of these beautiful sterndrive-propelled 27-footers have been delivered to date but while its styling has barely changed over the past 13 years the latest model packs a very different powertrain The El-Iseo isn’t just Riva’s first all-electric craft it’s the first battery-powered sportsboat built by any of the long-established European boat yards The big question is whether this is just an expensive toy built to satisfy a handful of wealthy clients or a genuine first step on the path to a greener future We flew out to Italy to put it through its paces and see how it fares window._taboolaSlots=window._taboolaSlots||[];window._taboolaSlots.push({"mode":"thumbnails-a-mid","container":"taboola-mid-article","placement":"Mid Article","target_type":"mix"}); The Riva El-Iseo started life as an engineering prototype at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival a full production-ready RCD-approved boat you can buy off the shelf A 250kW Parker electric motor and a pair of 75kWh battery banks replace the usual 300hp petrol or diesel engines The Riva El-Iseo is very similar to its petrol- or diesel-powered sisters cockpit layout and what lies beneath the sunpad The heart of the matter is a Parker GVM310 AC motor rated for a continuous 250kW (335hp) and a temporary peak of 300kW (402hp) Then there’s a sealed and liquid-cooled 800V 150kWh lithium battery bank as well as various fire and gas detection/extinguishing systems The battery pack consists of two independent banks which means the failure of one doesn’t stop the boat completely The only familiar sight is the single Mercury Racing Bravo X3R sterndrive leg bolted to the transom Andante and Allegro – which the musical among you will recognise as slow Adagio restricts acceleration and limits the speed to just five knots for marina work and displacement cruising In this mode the battery should last all day giving an effective cruising range of 50nm Andante allows swifter acceleration but caps the top speed at 25 knots Allegro delivers full acceleration and an artificially limited top speed of 40 knots at 4,000rpm The all-digital dashboard keeps track of power usage and remaining range You can select these cruise modes manually the system steps in and it slips automatically from Allegro to Andante Carry on until the battery reserve drops to 5% and it will trip once again into Adagio giving you another two to three nautical miles to get you home It accelerates more quickly than most petrol-powered runabouts of this size with no suggestion of cavitation and a seamless surge of torque from rest all the way to 4,000rpm plus there’s the choice of a 9in or 12in Simrad nav-screen amidships A conventional-style gear-shift/throttle delivers forward and reverse selection as well as power The steering is by Xenta and there’s an automated Zipwake trim-correction system There were five of us in the boat during our brief half-hour test session taking the weight from an already hefty 3.75 tonnes to just over four tonnes Mostly we were blasting around at or close to top speed Three different driver modes allow varying degrees of performance We set off with the batteries at 80% and came back showing 34% which when we plugged into a fast-charger back at the Sarnico yard’s quay the boat’s instruments informed us it would take 1 hour and 30 minutes to restore to 100% Riva quotes 75 minutes for a more practical 20-80% fast charge while a slow charge on shore power would take eight hours or more and much quieter than an ICE installation at displacement speeds there is still some noise once it starts planing its hull generates quite a bit of sound simply by moving through the water and there is a fair degree of whining from the sterndrive which would normally be drowned out by the roar of a petrol engine Riva’s El-Iseo is presently the only electric boat on the market to be RCD rated as Cat B (most of its rivals are C or D) In theory this means it can cope with winds up to F8 and 13ft seas although it’s hard to envisage any owners choosing to put that to the test Riva never likes to publish prices but there’s no glossing over the fact this is a very expensive boat We understand it will cost over €1.1m VAT paid compared to around €480,000 for a 300hp petrol one It’s hard to make sense of paying twice as much money for something with broadly similar performance and considerably shorter range than the petrol version but the El-Iseo is less about what it does and more about what it says – both for the people who buy it and the company that makes it The chances are its intended customers already have a waterside villa (possibly on a lake where ICE boats are banned) or a megayacht in need of a stylish tender where range and price is largely irrelevant and the cachet of ferrying guests around in a cutting-edge ‘eco-friendly’ Riva is reason enough to splash the cash it’s an equally bold statement that it’s prepared to invest in electric and hybrid drivetrains to power future generations of craft Luxury is nearly always expensive but E-luxury Plus you’ll get our quarterly Custom Yachting supplement where we share the last on offer in the superyacht world and at the luxury end of the market SEARCHThe global authority in superyachting the striking all-electric Riva El-Iseo packs a punch I wish I could say it is a beautiful, sunny day here at the Ferretti Group’s home base of Lake Iseo, where I am about to board a Riva El-Iseo that doesn’t detract from the sheer thrill of trialling Riva’s first all-electric boat the El-Iseo is the e-iteration of the brand’s beloved Iseo model It takes the familiar shape of classic open Rivas with a polished mahogany bow and stern platform it’s a design that speaks of scorching hot days out on the Mediterranean and 1960s style So this boat is both a nod to the past and a glimpse into the future with vintage style and cutting-edge electric propulsion which sports a striking electric- blue livery – the boat’s entire colour scheme can be customised to the owner’s preferences – and settle onto the leather U-shaped seating in the cockpit The absence of engine noise is immediately striking – a stark departure from the rumble of traditional diesel boats I wouldn’t go as far as saying there is complete silence but you can easily hold a conversation without needing to raise your voice there is the undeniable perk of breathing in clean air rather than diesel fumes I am told to hold on as we prepare to go full throttle – and I’m glad I do If you have ever experienced the abrupt acceleration of an electric car – that instant surge – then you’ll understand the sheer power and agility of the El-Iseo We effortlessly reach our cruising speed of 25 knots in just three seconds and within an impressive 10 seconds we are up on the plane I take the helm to experience the smooth steering and an acceleration curve that the yard says is significantly steeper than that of other boats of this size The touchscreen dashboard is aesthetically pleasing and intuitive and I note the titles of the three drive modes – Allegro (fast) Andante (moderate) and Adagio (slow) – all named after tempos of classical music The issue of range is a hot topic in the electric automotive industry and it’s no different when it comes to boats The yard says it offers one hour at a cruising speed of 25 knots and 10 hours at an eco speed of five knots The El-Iseo caters to two primary markets: first as a superyacht tender shuttling guests between the mothership and shore With several European countries implementing stringent regulations against diesel-powered boats on certain lakes there’s been a significant surge in demand for electric boats of this size Charging the El-Iseo is a straightforward affair – it can go from flat to full in less than two hours Charging stations are increasingly available in major marinas or they can be installed on board the mothership But what if you find yourself far out on the water with dwindling power “When the boat’s battery level drops to 20 per cent it automatically switches to the Adagio setting to warn you of the low battery,” says Davide Bellini electrical systems and electronics manager at the Ferretti Group With lithium battery safety also a common concern Bellini offers reassurance: “We cover the entire technical area – so not only the battery but also the engine room – with a special thin and light coating which protects the outside from  very high temperatures a retro look with futuristic propulsion technology offering a slice of la dolce vita for the 21st century First published in the July 2024 issue of BOAT International. Get this magazine sent straight to your door, or subscribe and never miss an issue. Latest news, brokerage headlines and yacht exclusives, every weekday SubscribeSign up to our newslettersSign up to BOAT International email newsletters to get the latest superyacht news Boat International Media Ltd © 2008 - 2025 Content presented under the "BOAT Presents" logo is an advertising feature and Boat International Limited has been paid to include this content KG and its Ampereship business unit delivered two electric solar ferries to Lago d'Iseo near Bergamo in northern Italy as planned The client was the responsible local authority of the operator Navigazione Lago d'Iseo and the new vessels are the first fully electric ferries in Italy the Iseo ferries each have two electric drives with 100 kW output Electricity is supplied by two battery banks with a total capacity of around 750 kWh These are charged by shore power and by solar modules during the journey - 75 percent of the roof area of the solar deck is covered with PV modules The lightweight catamarans for 140 passengers each have been optimized for a speed of 17 km/h They were built on the Ostseestaal site in Stralsund under the technical management of Ampereship - the business unit of Ostseestaal that specialises in zero-emission ships with the ‘Made in Germany’ seal Ampereship is integrating its own propulsion automation and energy management systems into the newbuilds A unique aspect of the Iseo project is that Ampereship delivered the ships to the site in sections and assembled them on site eliminating transport problems and the need for a local shipyard It took around four weeks to assemble each ferry on the shores of Lake Iseo before they were able to set off on test runs and are now already in operation The delivery to Lago d'Iseo is already the second to the Alpine region Ostseestaal and Ampereship had already delivered three identical electric-solar passenger ships for Lake Zurich is convinced that further orders will follow: ‘The fleet of passenger ships in Europe is very outdated and numerous ships will need to be replaced in the coming years It therefore makes sense to choose emission-free alternatives whose construction process is also extremely efficient.’ Emission-free travelling on Lake Iseo in northern Italy one of the two electric solar ferries from AmpereshipPhotos: Ampereship As inflation starts to slowly ramp up across the world the US is gradually heading for a recession as the American economy shrank through Q1… On April 30, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) together with several original co-sponsors reintroduced the SHIPS for America Act in the U.S Fast-growing energy demand is driving the need for technical support and guidance in new locations The Department of Homeland Security approved full production of the first U.S we excel in creating stunning illuminated yacht names and logos and cutting-edge LED and fiber optic solutions Maritime Reporter E-News is the maritime industry's largest circulation and most authoritative ENews Service delivered to your Email five times per week the Riva Iseo Super showcases the factors that make Riva synonymous with waterborne elegance and style Riva has followed up the recent reveal of the Riva El-Iseo electric boat with this a new 27-foot runabout that builds on the Iseo model line Designed by Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta of Officina Italiana Design the Iseo Super continues a three-decade partnership with the studio Riva, part of the Ferretti Group, combines a rich tradition of boat building with the latest technology. This is a traditional diesel-powered boat, although there’s also the option of two different petrol engines, both from the Volvo Penta marine range new motorboats can’t exceed a certain noise level or exhaust output With the diesel model capable of cruising at 36 knots and the petrol versions around 33 knots you’re never going to be lacking in performance The Iseo Super also has onboard stabilisation systems for a smooth ride which is paired with the high-gloss mahogany finishes on the deck and stern platform a classic and enduring visual signature of Riva style No less than 24 coats of varnish are required to give the wood its deep lustre and durability The Iseo Super is 27-foot (8.24 metres) and has a maximum beam of 2.5 metres and behind this is a generous dinette and table along with a digital Volvo Penta chartplotter for navigation The U-shaped sofa has waterproof Sky fabric that can be coordinated with the hull colour and it’s accompanied by an electrically operated table A manually operated bimini top is stowed behind the sofa and there’s a sunpad on the stern above the engine room escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox Riva has also introduced a new boat cover that uses the same material approach as a high-end automotive convertible for maximum breathability and weather protection when moored Jonathan Bell has written for Wallpaper* magazine since 1999 covering everything from architecture and transport design to books He is now the magazine’s Transport and Technology Editor He is also the host of Wallpaper’s first podcast Regala o regalati un abbonamento a Barche a Motore cartaceo + digitale e a soli 39 euro l’anno hai la rivista a casa e in più la leggi su PC, smartphone e tablet. Con un mare di vantaggi. Sono sempre barche da lago o optare anche per il mare costa? Il tuo indirizzo email non sarà pubblicato. I campi obbligatori sono contrassegnati * Le barche a motore, le sue storie, dal piccolo open ai motoryacht. Iscriviti ora alla nostra newsletter gratuita e ricevere ogni settimana le migliori news selezionate dalla redazione. Inserisci la tua mail qui sotto, accetta la Privacy Policy e clicca sul bottone “iscrivimi”. Nel 1988, l’eccellenza della nautica italiana incontra le prestazioni estreme nell’Azimut Atlantic Challenger, imbarcazione di 27 metri capace di coniugare eleganza, potenza e innovazione. Costruita da Benetti, uno dei cantieri navali più prestigiosi d’Italia, questa imbarcazione ha linee firmate da Ci sono novità importanti per chi naviga in Adriatico: la Croazia ha introdotto dal 29 marzo 2025 nuove regole per la sicurezza in mare, che interessano tutti i diportisti. Con oltre 1.200 isole e una lunga tradizione nautica, il Paese Con largo anticipo iniziano le presentazioni delle barche animeranno i saloni autunnali. Al Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, dal 29 ottobre al 2 novembre, Four Winns esporrà per il suo lancio mondiale il suo nuovo H33, neonata ammiraglia della sua Abbiamo provato il Marlin 33, novità del cantiere lombardo Marlin Boat vista in anteprima all’ultimo Salone Nautico di Genova. Lo osserviamo da lontano, attraccato al finger, e già la sensazione che ci comunica è quella di un gommone solido e Copyright © 2025 Barche a Motore | Mediterranean Boat Magazine. TransportItalian Alpine railway to start operating 14 green hydrogen-powered trains next yearFNM will reportedly maintain current ticket prices despite extra costs of running trains on H2 instead of diesel My day on the bike while in Italy in June 2024 Join me for a ride from up high in the hills at Bossico down to Lago d’Iseo Take in the sights while cycling alongside the lake and then a ride up mountain roads to Vigolo and beyond It’s a bit of cycling bliss on a hot day in Italy This is a cycling video with plenty of sightseeing, some personal anecdotes, a mini (impromptu) product review… see the full story on RIDE Media’s YouTube channel (or click the link above) This was my approach to the riding elements of a trip to Italy during the European summer of 2024 and it allowed me to discover new places and experience what the cycling life is like in a country that welcomes bike riders the ride from Bossico – up in the mountains on the northern side of Lago d’Iseo – down to the shoreline and onwards to wherever the road sent me Eventually I’d end up riding the climb to Vigolo and onwards up the mountain to the ‘Strada Verde’. After almost 100km with 1,700m of elevation gain I’d return to base and prepare to do it all again (somewhere new) the next day The trip to Italy began with a bike launch in the Dolomites and then I was free to roam for a few weeks While the weather warmed up and the Grand Départ of the 111th Tour de France got ever closer I had the pleasure of a handful of rides and meeting some fantastic people in a country that I’ve only ever visited briefly before It turned out to be a wonderful experience and a reminder of how liberating it can be to travel and to enjoy the opportunity to do something different in glorious locations The riding I did in Italy included one relatively brief test session on the new Pinarello Dogma F up in the Dolomites it was an example of how rapidly conditions can change in the mountains The first ride of my trip began with bright blue skies but that soon turned to clouds It wasn’t possible to film a great deal because of the weather but it was a good taste of what the bike was like and serves as a prompter to plan another visit so I can spend more time in exploring on terrain that begs to be ridden The bike I rode while nearby Lago d’Iseo was made possible thanks to the great bike rental arrangement offered by Livelo An email request started the process and within a few hours a Cipollini bike had been prepared for collection Vince Ulgiati from Punto Tours welcomed me at a bike shop in Varese and after a brief introduction to the Cipollini I rode out the door and onwards to my next cycling adventure There’s been a lot of cycling action in the last couple of months and while I’ve traditionally invested considerable time reporting on bike racing over the past 30 years lately I’ve been taking a different approach It was fantastic to return to the salle de presse at the Tour de France but also a pleasure to enjoy seeing Europe in a different way to what I’ve become accustomed to This year I only attended a few stages of the TDF and then returned to Sydney after visiting Italy and discovering only a tiny portion of a country that embraces cycling Things are different now and my passion for cycling is taking me in a new direction after many years of creating content about an activity that offers something for everyone These days I’m riding my bike more than ever and experiencing the joy that comes from time in the saddle and a chance to explore I hope you enjoy the videos from the #StoryOfMyRide series and get a little dose of inspiration for your next cycling adventure please leave a comment and let me know your thoughts I appreciate the feedback and am happy to answer any questions you might have about my experiences – Subscribe to RIDE Media’s YouTube channel – Riva launched its new Riva Iseo Super at the Boot Düsseldorf show in late January. This ultra-cool 27ft dayboat is a more affordable combustion engined version of the all-electric Riva El-Iseo launched last year Both are evolutions of the original Iseo launched in 2011 Outwardly the Iseo Super is just as sweet as you would expect a sweeping shear and a beautifully moulded tumblehome stern – all packaged with the usual deep-gloss varnished mahogany detailing which now features a raised lip at the leading edge in common with all Riva’s latest generation boats there’s a new Böning digital dashboard and two bolstered benches either side of a central walkway Behind them is a new U-shaped seating area and a small square pedestal table that will go up and down at the flick of a switch A hand-operated bimini top stows neatly away beneath the rear bench Whereas the El-Iseo’s engine bay had a Parker electric motor As standard it comes with a 300hp Volvo Penta D4 diesel linked to a DP-I sterndrive which promises a top speed of around 38 knots There are also two petrol V8 options with either 305hp or 355hp – the latter pushes the top speed up to 41 knots Riva doesn’t publish pricing of its boats but we understand the new Iseo Super is well under half the price of the notoriously expensive electric El-Iseo Lake Iseo is the Lombardian oasis no one knows about — but shh Massimo Borchi/Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images this scythe-shaped squiggle of water is home to fishing villages tucked into deep bays backed by an ampitheatre of snow-capped Alpine foothills and terraced hills that produce Italy's most-prized sparkling wine This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).Sandro Novali isn’t fishing today. “He’s spent a lot of his life on the lake,” Sandro’s son, Nicola shrugs. “Not so much these days. But there are still a few regular fishermen out there.” We huddle just inside the entrance of La Foresta the Novali family restaurant with rooms that put the little island of Montisola on the map when it opened back in 1974 Lake Iseo was barely a blip on the radar for visitors to northern Italy’s watery heartland; a simple string of fishing hamlets floating in Iseo’s central waters backed by mountains densely wooded with beech Even for the hardy few out and about on Montisola’s shores today it’s not a morning for catching much more than a chill Exhaled breaths hang in ice-thickened air; the mainland’s snow-capped Alpine foothills puncture holes in the fog-frozen horizon apart from a few men shuffling about on the shoreline mouthing swearwords into recalcitrant moorings The boats are mostly traditional wooden skiffs from which fishermen lower hand-hewn cast nets The centuries old expertise behind Iseo’s net-weaving industry is now being put to use for racket sports and hammocks as much as for fishing hooks and buoys form a kitsch canopy above our heads in La Foresta’s reception area similar kit fulfils its proper function: lines and pots are stacked quayside silvery sardinas and misultitt (shad) hang like pungent wind chimes from wooden drying racks Such prized lake fish jewel La Foresta’s menu — lightly poached Nicola brings me a flotilla of little appetizer plates I marvel at velvet slithers of cured coregone a winery and kitchen located in the historical centre of Rovato Brescia.Photograph by Francesco LastrucciLombardy’s secret The smallest of Lombardy’s four major lakes Iseo has somehow resisted the limelight focused on such neighbouring bodies of water as Como it’s perhaps for Bulgarian artist Christo’s 2016 installation Floating Piers which crisscrossed the lake with two miles of gleaming burnt orange walkways from Sulzano on the mainland out to Montisola and its teeny neighbour “I think we hosted more people in the two weeks it lasted than we did in the entire year,” laughs Nicola showing me a book by his photographer friend dangling feet in Iseo’s contrastingly aquamarine expanse I wonder aloud how on earth permission was granted for such a fantastical feat so he got permits that way.” Italy’s gun-making magnates also happen to be influential arts patrons It’s hard to imagine such a sizeable installation happening on Italy’s other traffic-heavy lakes There’s benefit to being a backwater: devoid of Garda’s glittering spas or Como’s Clooney-level celebrity status A post-lunch hike takes me into Montisola’s sharply rising interior where beech mast and yellow oak leaves still carpet trails and off-road routes that ultimately lead to a frost-dusted summit crowned with the Ceriola Sanctuary Isis-worshiping islanders were introduced to Christianity by Bresican bishop Saint Vigilio Squinting into the mists over the magnificently still lake I struggle to imagine it unquiet with Christo’s playground installation A street scene in Lovere, a town situated on the northern tip of Lake Iseo.Photograph by Francesco LastrucciWild watersI find more piers tucked behind Iseo’s southernmost tip. At Torbiere del Sebino Nature Reserve I follow two miles of wooden walkways and bridges that appear to float above a startlingly beautiful expanse of wetland where lake waters drain into a patchwork of peat bogs Mirror-still waters reflect Iseo’s ever-present snow-capped peaks; curtains of tall rushes rustle with the promise of purple herons and great bitterns bird hides appear at intervals where it’s tempting to shelter from the sideways sleet beginning to glaze walkways and water Instead, I keep moving, eventually succumbing to the wood fire-heated welcome of Trattoria Fontanì at the park’s entrance where €10 (£8.44) buys me two courses — a saffron courgette risotto poached lake trout — and a bullet-strong espresso Affordable rusticity isn’t a mainstay of Lombardy’s glittering lakeshores Intermittently punctuated by lidos and Michelin-starred places to dine for the most part Iseo’s handful of waterfront towns are comparatively modest their simplicity is dwarfed by mountains that rise off the lake with all the drama of the high Alps; lower terraces strung with clouds caught between their craggy folds Iseo is a lake defined by walls of rock as much as water I follow the shoreline north to the tiny town of Pisogne where mountains eat right into the water swallowing the road into a seemingly endless tunnel the fortified town of Castro appears as if carved into the rock itself the onward lakeside route vanishing into a string of overhanging grotto that run so close to the water you could be driving through sea caves I have to remind myself I’m not exiled in the Alps palm-planted boardwalks — seems a distant memory snowcapped summits that blaze blood red in the setting sun “But the lake’s microclimate mitigates the chill And our protective amphitheatre of hills — ancient glacial moraine from the mountains — shield us from the mist and heat of the southern plains and they’ve gifted us with such mineral-rich soil.”  that the area surrounding Lake Iseo is a haven of top-quality wine The famous Franciacorta region is home to more than 110 wineries Berlucchi and Ferghettina — to name but a few — are all within a 10-minute drive of each other and offer visitors the chance to stroll around vineyards that give the French a run for their money family-run wine business that was founded as a passion project of Vittorio Moretti in the 1970s and is now managed by his daughter A tour of the cathedral-like cellars reveals vast vaulted ceilings under which wine matures in battalions of oak barrels followed by a secondary fermentation in the bottle “all of which are still turned by hand,” smiles Francesca — alluding to the traditional Champagne method now rarely used by the big French houses But don’t mention that ‘C’ word; Bellavista prefers to be known as the “cashmere” of sparkling wine celebrating the diversity of its vintages rather than a standard house style “Franciacorta’s wineries all produce very different-tasting wines It’s incredible for a small area to have such nuances,” says Francesca I note everything from biscuit and nutty caramel to ripe stone fruits and citrus jam all finished with the finest of natural bubbles of Bellavista’s annual 1.6 million-bottle output I relish it while I can — even ordering some to accompany a pizza back at my hotel later that night Those in the know come to hotel L’Albereta for its detox programme — a legendary Chenot Method menu that fuels devoted denizens of its extensive spa to wake the following morning feeling a bit fuzzy Francesca was right: those cold cellars signalled snow — and lots of it The vine-clad hillsides sloping away from L’Albereta are thickly carpeted with fluffy white drifts; vines are laden views of Iseo’s blues have vanished into the white L'Albereta, Relais & Chateaux, a boutique hotel located in the countryside of Erbusco.Photograph by Francesco LastrucciFive more to try: explore Lombardy's lakes 1. ComoSynonymous with priceless palazzi celebrity-stuffed restaurants and Bond-worthy vistas Italy’s most famous lake has plenty of natural riches Como’s mountain-backed shores are lined with ancient paths through woodland and villages Still in use today by locals to reach the alpine pastures these trails have been transformed into waymarked routes rewarding walkers with the sort of breathtaking views that are the envy of even the most moneyed villa owner.Don't miss: Follow the Sentiero del Viandante the ‘wayfarer’s path’ that dates back Roman times when it was the only land route connecting Como’s eastern villages 2. GardaThis Italian stallion of a lake — the country’s largest — has been seducing visitors to Italy for centuries with natural thermal springs feeding the venerable spas of Sirmione and Bardolino wind-ruffled northern waters that are a boon for sports lovers Don't miss: Make like an Italian and rent a farmhouse in the south shore’s Valtenesi region where steep mountains and green rolling hills are yours to explore 3. MaggioreStraddling the border with Switzerland Italy’s second-largest lake is also one of its most peaceful and mountainous backcountry where woodland is rich with wildlife Hilltop forts and ducal villas made Maggiore a must for wealthy youngsters on their grand tour in the 18th century — their legacy resulted in the creation of several waterfront hamlets Less than an hour south is the picture-perfect Lake Varese right at the foot of Mount Campo Dei Fiori Don't miss: Maggiore is home to some of Italy’s most celebrated landscaped and botanical gardens is one of the region’s largest privately owned gardens ablaze in spring with thousands of blooming azaleas and magnolia 5. CeresioItaly’s border-hopping lake, also known as Lake Lugano, offers incredible Alpine hikes. Travel in early spring to see Alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, while the peaks above remain sparkling with snow. Choose a route from Valsolda, the little string of lakeside and mountainside villages along Ceresio’s north-western shore.Don't miss: Walk among Dolomite cliffs in the 785-acre Valsolda Nature Reserve, one of Lombardy’s largest with 220 acres of trails dedicated to walkers.  ADAMANT: Dioli, Sackey 10, Casagrande 6, Drigo 8, Santiago 12, Tio 1, Yarbanga 8, Solaroli 14, Chessari 7, Ballabio 8, Braga 2, Marchini 17. Coach Benedetto. ISEO: Zugni, Raineri ne, Cravedi 17, Procacci 2, Gentili 6, Bonavida 13, Tommasetto 4, Milovanovic 14, Ballini, Arrighi, Balogun 8. Coach Mazzoli. The emergence of solar PV in fueling Indonesia’s energy transition ISEO 2023 provides an update on the progress of solar PV as the primary energy source in Indonesia’s energy transition as well as its challenges and market opportunities solar progress was included in the IESR’s annual flagship report Indonesia Energy Transition Outlook (IETO) but this year we made it into a separate publication This demonstrates our genuine dedication to the development of solar PV in Indonesia We hope this report can become a primary reference for policymakers and the public to get insight into solar PV development in Indonesia Let’s make solar PV a driving force in Indonesia’s energy transition Encouraging the acceleration of Indonesia’s energy transition towards a just Jl. Tebet Timur Raya No. 48B Jakarta Selatan 12820 Indonesia  iesr@iesr.or.id Press Release Contact Us Careers Request for Proposal Internal Indonesia Energy Transition Outlook Indonesia Energy Transition Dialogue 2015Demetrius FordhamSave this storySaveSave this storySave“Lake Iseo Never heard of it,” is the most common response from non-Italians upon hearing about Lombardy’s fourth-largest lake It’s not surprising: Sandwiched between Lake Como and Lake Garda at the foothills of the Alps Iseo (rhymes with “mayo”) is hidden in plain sight bypassed by summer tourists en route to the principal lakeside escapes of Bellagio cutting an eastbound trail from Milan towards the cypress-cloaked hills and cobblestone roads of Bergamo then down to the banks of Lombardy’s least-known lake Iseo is hugged by densely wooded mountains and pastel-colored villages heavy mist that only adds to its already dramatic beauty Some might even argue that Iseo’s beauty is even more arresting than Como’s: From the lake’s center soars Monte Isola a 2,000-foot-tall mountain that has the distinction of being the largest lake island in all of Western Europe a nearby Relais & Châteaux hotel built on a vineyard Iseo remains blissfully quiet—a secret lakeside getaway at roughly half the price of a stay on Como A vintage Riva boat speeding towards Monte Isola on Lake Iseo with wine tourists flocking in from Germany Unlike the pricey restaurants in Bellagio and Tremezzo that cater to tourists the food on Iseo is unapologetically authentic—no English menus in sight—and the cuisine actually tastes like Lombardy Lunch at Vista Lago: sautéed shrimp with mango served with a glass of Franciacorta up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world "The Floating Piers," artist Christo’s first outdoor installation since his wife and collaborator will connect Lake Iseo's islands with the shore from June 18 to July 3 but low-key Lake Iseo offers equally stunning views—and sparkling wines that blow prosecco out of the water I often choose my travel destinations on the merit of their local tipples the habit has led me to visit loads of places that are just as lovely as the wines for which they're famous So when I learned that one of my new favorite sparklers, Franciacorta, is made in the eastern portion of Italy’s exalted Lake District I resolved to work a stopover into a family trip I already had planned to the Mediterranean country I’d need more than yummy bubbly to sell the idea of a visit to my wife and son But when I mentioned we could stay at a snazzy five-star hotel Vineyards in northern Italy's Franciacorta wine region By the time we make the hourlong drive in our rental car from Milan’s airport to the L’Albereta Relais & Chateaux one spring evening we're too tired and hungry to explore beyond the resort Any worries that the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, LeoneFelice vanish as he devours the appetizers of cuttlefish and poached egg with peas It’s here that we also taste our first Franciacorta of the trip that it sure goes well with the scallop risotto Up early the next morning, my wife, Gail, and I let Ewan sleep while we head downstairs for breakfast. Over cappuccinos, we glimpse Lake Iseo and the snowcapped foothills of the mountains beyond through the dining room windows. Caffeinated and eager to start our day, we rouse Ewan and drive several minutes south to Ca’ del Bosco one of the first producers of Franciacorta in the area and now one of its largest With a pond stocked with caviar-producing sturgeon and an eccentric array of art including dozens of oversize electric-blue wolves scattered around the estate Ca’ del Bosco wouldn’t be out of place in a Bond flick But it’s on a tour of the winery that we begin to appreciate the pivotal role it played in putting Franciacorta on the viticultural map it was as a teenager that future winery founder Maurizio Zanella smitten with the sparkling wines of France’s Champagne region Franciacorta is made with the same methods as champagne (albeit with different grapes) Franciacorta’s landlocked Alpine climate and glacially gouged soil produce distinct sparkling wines Comparisons to Italy’s better known bubbly though she is quick to point out a key difference Ca’ del Bosco’s labyrinthine aging cellars have no place in most prosecco production because it’s meant to be drunk young you need at least two years before you can drink a bottle.” I’m itching to see if I can tell the two Italian varieties apart But after sampling our way through a handful of styles and vintages Gail and I agree that we’re not sure we can distinguish Franciacorta from champagne we join Ca’ del Bosco founder Maurizio’s daughter With few signs delineating different properties Maria tells us that the easiest way to determine whose land is whose is to look for the hallmark differences in how different wine growers train and trellis their vines “It’s a matter of attitude,” Rabotti says with a wink As promised, I’m back by noon to pick up Ewan and Gail and tootle toward Lake Iseo, home to Italy’s largest inland isle, Monte Isola A short ferry ride brings us from the mainland town of Iseo to the village of Sensole on Monte Isola We decide to stroll east along Sensole's southern coast Only the occasional motor scooter interrupts the quiet Passing a cat sanctuary with dozens of felines lounging in the midday sun we’re disappointed to learn from a sign that two-legged fans aren’t welcome Several times during our half-hour walk to the neighboring village of Peschiera Maraglio we observe men hanging silvery cavedano fish out to dry on wires stretched between head-high wooden stakes After a moment, we wonder aloud what it will look like when Christo’s “Floating Piers” transforms the lake into a glimmering walk-on-water spectacle, but agree that we’re glad we visited before it—and the crowds—come. Back on the mainland, we linger over cups of gelato, reluctant to depart for the airport and board our evening flight home. And as improbably sweet as my ricotta-and-fig gelato is, I can’t help but think that it, too, might pair well with a glass of Franciacorta. they—along with the other pungent local catch we try—go remarkably well with a bottle of Franciacorta we watch sailboats glide across the water as hang gliders launch themselves from a hill in the distance."},"type":"p","style":{}},{"id":"html23","cntnt":{"mrkup":"After a moment we wonder aloud what it will look like when Christo’s “Floating Piers” transforms the lake into a glimmering walk-on-water spectacle but agree that we’re glad we visited before it—and the crowds—come."},"type":"p","style":{}},{"id":"html24","cntnt":{"mrkup":"Back on the mainland reluctant to depart for the airport and board our evening flight home And as improbably sweet as my ricotta-and-fig gelato is might pair well with a glass of Franciacorta."},"type":"p","style":{}}],"cid":"drn:src:natgeo:unison::prod:3ca7469c-d621-422e-909c-9c0b66c933bd","cntrbGrp":[],"mode":"richtext","dscrptn":"Como may draw celebs We have to try to win to secure our second place and get to the playoffs with the right determination, this team has it but sometimes they forget to put it on the field". Really everything is still up for grabs in the Adamant group: not even Pordenone is sure of first place, just as – in the worst case scenario – Ferrara could even finish fourth. The only certainty is Mantova's fifth place, while for the last three places it is an open battle between Iseo itself, Gardone, Social Osa and Oderzo. At the end of these forty minutes there will be many calculations to do, in the meantime Ferrara must think about winning. THE SHIFT: Gorizia-Gardonese, Monfalcone-Pizzighettone, Pordenone-Mantua, Ferrara-Iseo, Padua-Social Osa, Oderzo-Sangioorgese. CLASSIFICATION: Pordenone 30; Ferrara, Sangiorgese, Monfalcone 28; Mantua 22; Iseo, Gardonese 20; Social Osa, Oderzo 18; Pizzighettone, Gorizia 16; Padua 8. Bustling Ho Chi Minh City was a far cry from the suburbs of Chicago and my wanderlust needs to be satiated," she told Business Insider got teaching jobs in the United Arab Emirates with annual salaries just shy of $70,000 "Making $1,500 a month was not going to cut it for the rest of our lives," she said They decided to save for a down payment on a house in Chicago, where the typical home sells for about $350,000, according to Realtor.com and relatively high mortgage rates — but it wouldn't have been impossible Nevertheless, a fateful European road trip in 2018 led Knighten and Cordier to abandon their plans they spent it driving a rundown car that cost £250 they found a travel blog with a photo of Monte Isola an island in the middle of a lake close to the Alps Knighten and Cordier booked a small bed-and-breakfast on Monte Isola a roughly five-square-mile island dotted with small villages in the middle of Lake Iseo a glacier lake surrounded by lush green mountains They were awestruck — and shocked an island this beautiful wasn't better known "We've traveled all over the world together whom Knighten describes as "gregarious," approached a few locals to ask what there was to do "They were like: 'We're actually going to a party tonight on a boat The couple went and ended up making lasting friendships Knighten said she and Cordier had nearly saved $40,000 to put toward a down payment on a house in Chicago even though that sum could only buy them a property "not in a great neighborhood." Knighten and Cordier were curious about the cost of buying a home there they realized they could afford a fixer-upper in Lake Iseo with the cash they already had in their bank accounts Knighten and Cordier toured two properties for sale One was an old pig shed listed for 34,000 euros They seriously considered converting it into a tiny home but decided against it because it was too remote and would have cost too much money to fix up Knighten and Cordier returned to Monte Isola on a house-hunting mission in the summer of 2019 They eventually found a house listed for 25,000 euros "It didn't have any photos of the interior It was one of those with one photo of the outside of the house," she said but they were told other buyers had beaten them to the punch who died a few years before Knighten and Cordier came to Lake Iseo it seemed that the owner's death was unexpected "There were nightgowns hung in the wardrobe salt and oil and stuff in the kitchen," she said "You almost felt like you were trespassing." Even though it was a little "eerie," Knighten and Cordier fell in love with the house which had a kitchen and a multipurpose room on the ground floor and two bedrooms and a bathroom on the second floor it was closer to the lake and public transportation and signed an agreement to buy the house in July 2019 They put down a 500-euro good-faith deposit they were thinking of using it as a summer house as they didn't think they could afford to move to Italy full time given her $730-a-month student-loan payment and how much less they thought teachers made in Italy The plan was to continue living in the UAE and visit Italy in the summers who worked in construction before going into teaching Knighten said she and Cordier got engaged before their first trip to Italy in 2018 but had never given much thought to when or where they'd actually tie the knot "That's the first time we kind of got excited about 'Oh yeah they finally hosted their wedding in Italy in 2022 with loved ones and friends who they'd made on their first visit to the lake in 2018 in attendance No one was surprised they'd bought the lakeside house "We both have always wanted an unconventional life and made choices to live an unconventional life So it didn't surprise anyone in our family," Knighten said Knighten and Cordier had the idea of starting an online subscription-based exam-preparation business for the UAE's equivalent of the SATs The growth of their business eventually gave them the confidence to quit their teaching jobs in the UAE and move to Italy full time during the summer of 2023 which they finally launched in the fall of 2023 Knighten said the teaching jobs they ended up finding in Italy paid better than they'd anticipated Knighten said she and her husband estimated the project would cost roughly $100,000 But she added that the budget was expensive because they were making significant changes they're adding ensuite bathrooms to both bedrooms and structural upgrades like a new roof and skylights they're living in a rental apartment nearby They've hired professionals to help with major changes but Cordier also lends a hand whenever he's available Knighten said it had still taken longer than they expected to move in Knighten said they'd hoped to be living in the house by June but it was looking closer to December as most people in Italy wouldn't work full time in August Knighten said a real-estate agent told them the house was probably built in the 18th century the couple found a stone window hidden behind plaster that their architect said indicated the property was potentially medieval The discovery was all the more exciting because Knighten and Cordier love old artifacts and particularly history you can touch and feel," she said the real-estate agent offered to get rid of all of the previous owner's furniture for them which didn't sit right with Knighten or Cordier "There were loads of really cool vintage pieces," she said Doing so has helped them cut down on costs and get creative with the renovation process the couple can't afford new kitchen cabinets so they've decided to use old wooden dressers that were already in the house for kitchen storage instead Knighten has no regrets about choosing their slice of Italian paradise over a chance to move back to the US Benefits they're enjoying include better grocery produce which the couple can enroll in because they are residents who recalled experiencing an ovarian-cyst rupture when she was living in the US without health insurance she hesitated to go to the hospital because of how much it would cost how is America considered the developed world?" Knighten said Given the great deal they have as teachers in Italy and how poorly many teachers are paid in the US Knighten and Cordier have no plans to move stateside I did not expect to be in the UAE or Vietnam," she said But I just don't see that happening for me this medium-sized lake attracts relatively few foreigners yet packs in all of Italy’s quintessential charms – great vineyards swimming and – partly because it is a popular weekend getaway for the wealthy denizens of nearby Bergamo and Brescia – a superb food scene It’s “budget friendly” too with good train links and “pint-sized” ferries that often charge less than two pounds The lakeside town of Lovere is reminiscent of Venice and its waterfront dominated by the long neoclassical colonnade of the Accademia Tadini From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox But the lake’s most charming spot is Monte Isola an island whose steep but rounded sides give it the appearance of a “giant green panettone” sits between olive groves and “dinky” pebble beaches where the antipasto platter of Iseo fish is “revelatory” Amid the Alpine foothills an hour’s drive north lies the Parco Nazionale delle Incisioni Rupestri where there are thousands of prehistoric rock drawings And to the south is the wine region of Franciacorta You might stay at one of the vineyards there – Corte Lantieri and Al Rocol are excellent affordable accommodation beside the lake itself which has a “top-notch” restaurant a hostel in Lovere with “knockout” views A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com It looks as if time has passed this place by with miles of well-maintained walkways for taking in the views Lake Iseo was for many years the best-kept secret in Italy's famed lakes region Lakes Garda and Como are the more popular destinations and quiet little Iseo (pronounced EE-zayo) benches along the lake and nearby cafe tables are populated by locals The water acts as a reflecting pool along the horizon This tranquillity was interrupted for two weeks last summer for the artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude's The Floating Piers a 2-mile-long installation that connected the mainland to islands in the center of Iseo Tourists flocked to see what he was up to and discovered they could actually walk along bright wide saffron-colored piers floating on the lake's surface on giant polyethylene cubes "Those who experienced The Floating Piers felt like they were walking on water," wrote Christo The light and water transformed the bright yellow fabric to shades of red and gold throughout the sixteen days." and lucrative it was for the townspeople to find themselves serving the hordes of photographers but the secret of lovely Iseo is out: You can circle the lake's 37-mile perimeter Or you can spend the entire time sitting along the water find these same species on menus everywhere along with the region's famous sparkling wine the Alps are sometimes obscured by smaller mountain ranges you start to see the red-tiled roofs of local homes I imagine that I live in Milan (a girl can dream can't she?) and that I'm heading to my country house for the weekend in my Maserati Ghibli; this is the drive that will calm me as I unwind from the hectic pace of the big city Besides fishing and related net-manufacturing industries here (those nets are now also sold to sports venues for tennis and volleyball) and wild mushrooms that the residents forage Things can get geographically confusing because Iseo is the name of both the body of water and the major town on the lake This is where to stay off-season if you want something more than a sleepy village Iseo harbors the ancient Oldofredi castle (said to date to the year 1000) in the center of town with the small Museo della Guerra (Museum of the World Wars) inside it The best way to tour the lakeside area is to get in a car in Iseo and travel around clockwise We never seem to get out at an early hour; if you go for lunch in Sarnico at Pizzeria L'altro Pizzicotto Then climb back in the car and continue north to Castro The town dates to the Roman era and has remnants of a 15th-century fortress a town many say is one of the most beautiful in Italy with the heavy stone arcades common in Italian architecture Most travelers worry about the same things: Does it take more than two people to figure out the parking fee system Will someone make off with our things while we're sightseeing Can we get our vehicle down that tortuous medieval lane so do as we do not: Beware streets that are so narrow you won't make it through; resist the tinier roads that hug the water and tempt you to explore Your only recourse is to drive out in reverse (sometimes up a hill) trying to avoid scraping the rental car on a stone wall (not saying anyone in our party did this) A short trip up and around the top of Iseo brings you to the eastern side of the lake and the medieval village of Pisogne It's worth a stop if only to see the 15th-century church of Santa Maria della Neve with frescoes by Renaissance painter Girolamo Romanino A bit farther south, you'll reach Sulzano and the Hotel Rivalago (39-030-98-5011, rivalago.it) We lingered for two nights on the premises there's a terraced lawn and two pools perched on the water's edge A stylish dining room can hold a grand party; it's also the place that serves guests an elaborate breakfast buffet of pastries and cakes Many hotels in Europe charge up to $20 for their version but ours was included in our rate (summer rates are $340 per night; in the fall Get to Sulzano before dusk so you can catch a ferry to the largest inhabited island on the lake: Monte Isola In a region with views that take your breath away around every bend The cone-shaped mass rises out of the water and feels like one of nature's great triumphs the island is a five-minute ferry ride from Sulzano the ferry pulls up to the landing at Peschiera Maraglio But don't worry about food — the island has a thriving fishing industry and enough agriculture to sustain its residents You can walk to the top of the Madonna della Ceriola sanctuary, parts of which date to the fifth century. From this height, you can see the entire lake. When it's time to climb down — make sure to do so while it's still light — head to the family-run Albergo Ristorante La Foresta (39-030-988-6210, forestamontisola.it) La Foresta was started by Silvano Novali; his fisherman brother The hallmark of the menu has always been fresh fish but we were given a table so we could have a drink and wait for service to begin three generations of the family were having a leisurely supper We sat patiently and imagined how disruptive it would be if we were accompanied by someone who expected the staff to drop everything and wait on us Sipping glasses of chilled Franciacorta rose As the ferry pulls out of Monte Isola at night and a moonlit lake illuminating a silhouette of mountains forming a protective ring around us We wonder why the Michelin Guide hasn't been to La Foresta to present it with a coveted star But even with its grand setting and superb food Sheryl Julian is the former food editor of the Globe. Follow her on Twitter @sheryljulian. Send comments to magazine@globe.com. Follow us on Twitter @BostonGlobeMag. Home Delivery Gift Subscriptions Log In Manage My Account Customer Service Delivery Issues Feedback News Tips Help & FAQs Staff List Advertise Newsletters View the ePaper Order Back Issues News in Education Search the Archives Privacy Policy Terms of Service Terms of Purchase Work at Boston Globe Media Internship Program Co-op Program Do Not Sell My Personal Information Beginning this week, and lasting for only sixteen days, visitors to the Italian Lake Iseo can "walk on water." The Floating Piers is the work of Christo and Jeanne-Claude Built using 100,000 square meters of shimmering yellow fabric carried by a modular floating dock system of 220,000 high-density polyethylene cubes the installation—which sits just above water level—undulates with the movement of the lake According to Italian news source, Leggo two people were "seriously injured" and the installation was "evacuated" on its opening day due to the quantity of visitors and inclement weather conditions Those who experience The Floating Piers will feel like they are walking on water – or perhaps the back of a whale An aspect of this article references news from Leggo You'll now receive updates based on what you follow Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors If you have done all of this and still can't find the email Charlotte Bickley here—editor at large for The Daily I recently had the pleasure of visiting northern Italy’s Franciacorta region. We started our journey at JFK, where we boarded a flight operated by the most luxurious airline, Emirates. I enjoyed every minute of the nine+ hour flight to Milan, and once we were there, we drove for about an hour through the gorgeous countryside until we arrived in the Lombardy Region of Italy and checked into the chicest hotel, Iseo Lago Hotel where we learned about the many different wines of the region to a bike tour around Lake Iseo in all its glory and dining in style on delicious Italian food with every meal being paired with Franciacorta wines I had the best time and I’m here to give you the #approvedbychar guide to Franciacorta After arriving at Lake Iseo Hotel in the late afternoon, I had a chance to check out my room and quickly freshen up and change into my ‘fit for the evening activities. To start the four-day experience that awaited us, we met our driver for the trip, Giuseppe, and we were off to our first winery. Overlooking the region, sits Majolini, a family- run winery passed down through generations the winery also houses a very particular art and sculpture collection expressing the owners’ unique taste Being a fan of the novel Moby-Dick when I was young the sculpture that resonated with me was the giant whale tail made entirely of chicken wire The tail was commissioned due to the owners’ love of the sculpture’s meaning: a representation of all the impossible dreams people have in their life We also learned the winery owners’ personal goal…to produce the ‘perfect wine.’ Simone Majolini which reminded me of a chic horse barn made of limestone which happens to be the main mineral in the region Immediately we go into the ‘essence room,’ which highlights the ‘essence’ of the Franciacorta region Within minutes of the tour I knew how rare it was to visit a winery but also the attention to self-expression through art we saw sculptures of what appeared to be the same woman in 11 different poses expressing emotion and feeling through positions of the body Alongside these sculptures was a map of the Franciacorta region Simone referred to the room as the ‘room of dreams,’ which showcased the Majolini wine bottles dressed up in variety of different materials These materials consisted of ostrich and stingray Some of the wine bottles were even in dresses made to size that could be a Met Gala worthy outfits…it truly was such an interesting way to display the Majolini wines and a testament to Simone’s very creative mind The pieces in the ‘room of dreams’ are intended to be auctioned for charity soon We finished the winery tour and entered the tasting room to see a table displayed with four different Majolini wine bottles and—to my excitement!—bread Franciacorta as a region is known for sparkling wine My favorite wine tasted at Majolini was the Brut Rosé Pinot Nero—being someone who often visits the Hamptons I’ve become very accustomed to rosé wine aka the area’s so-called ‘summer water.’ The Majolini Rose was such a refreshing twist to the usual rosé I sip on Out East As quoted from the Majolini winery “this wine very refined but doesn’t hide its big personality” and I would confirm this statement to be true Our time at the Majolini winery came to a close and we said our goodbyes to sweet Simone and eagerly promised him we’d be back soon to see some new additions to the winery For any travel goers who plan to visit the region the additions will be ready for use by Spring 2023 Next stop on the itinerary was dinner at Ristorante Bella Iseo the team had prepared a set menu of food and wine pairings for the dinner my jet lag began to hit and I couldn’t wait to get back to my room and hit the hay the Lombardy region was unlike any place I’ve been to and I couldn’t wait to wake up and begin day two of exploring and adventures The agenda for day two was all about getting to know the region starting with a guided walking tour of the city Brescia with a population of upwards of 200,000 people is the fourth largest city in northern Italy and is very rich in history and authenticity which makes it super different from the more typical tourist destinations like Rome and Florence it’s evident that Brescia prides itself on keeping structures from its past Roman history while also trying to maintain and modernize the city A fun fact about the city I learned is that Brescia is home to the Mille Miglia classic car race After walking the city, we most certainly worked up an appetite for some more Italian food and Franciacorta wine. Our lunch was at a trendy restaurant named Laboratorio Lanzani just 10 minutes drive from the city of Brescia You enter Laboratorio and find this adorable courtyard filled with seating there’s a very unique interior which has industrial finishings juxtaposed with antique rugs The stylish interiors matched the crowd that was occupying the restaurant—I felt like Laboratorio Lanzani could be a contemporary spot you’d find in Williamsburg everyone was beautiful which was not shocking as I was in Italy after all The meal was truly wonderful and as a recommendation for ordering as my spaghetti tomato sauce pasta was some of the best I’ve had Now to my favorite part of the entire trip: a guided bike tour of the stunning Lake Iseo via Iseo Bike. To be perfectly honest when I heard we were going to be doing a bike tour of the lake I was incredibly skeptical and not that excited Once everyone was ready and situated with our electric bikes we all began to pedal in a line behind our guide For about a mile we rode alongside the road and after a few twists and turns we finally arrived on the shores of lake Iseo to enjoy the gorgeous ride along the lake we got incredibly lucky with the perfect weather This perfect day allowed us to experience the lake and all its beauty there is also a variety of activities you could do in the lake such as boat tours Our guide from Iseo Bike was so amazing—he made sure everyone first and foremost felt safe while also giving us a proper tour of the lake he made sure we hit every picture opp—a man after my own heart I never thought of a bike tour being an option but honestly I now think a bike tour is a fantastic way to see the sights and sounds of the landscape of any given city or region Highly recommend and of course check out Iseo Bike if you ever find yourself in that region Dinner on day two was at our hotel, Iseo Lago Hotel, and the meal was superb. At L’Alzavola Restaurant you have the choice to either do a tasting menu or order a la carte our meal was paired with Franciacorta wines which  were impeccable there are so many pasta options on the main menu that are worth testing too Pulling up the driveway to the winery you could tell you were entering a very special spot you can’t help but be mesmerized as you walk through the vibrant pink-walled hallway The highlight of my time as Ca’ Del Bosco was the tasting and dining area they use to entertain guests of the winery there were reoccurring vibrant pink walls with four trunks lined up one of the trunks being an archive Louis Vuitton piece I think one thing so incredible about touring these wineries in the Franciacorta region was noticing how much of an intersection there is between wine Each winery we saw was more than just a winery which made them all the more beautiful and special The highlight of the lunch we had at the winery was the spaghetti pasta with clams in a tomato sauce There is no other way to describe this plate as anything other than divine which is said to be George Clooney’s favorite red This big claim was backed by an interview with Clooney confirming his love for the bottle if it works for George… it works for us too we were becoming sentimental acknowledging it was our last night Since every meal thus far on my trip had been so incredible I didn’t think it was possible to have better food… but somehow our last meal was one of the best meals of my life If I haven’t sold you on the perfect trip to Italy yet, this restaurant, Vivilo Restaurant We began our meal at Vivilo with a bread basket for the table with what looked and tasted like the most insane muffin I’ve ever had in my life but the Casoncelli pasta filled with bacon and almonds sent me to absolute paradise The pasta was finished by a meat and then we ended with dessert it all just made me melt; I truly am dreaming of when I can next return to Vivilo Having one last coffee at Lake Iseo Hotel on the morning of our departure I was reflecting on how truly sad I was to leave this beautiful place I really had such a special few days with Franciacorta From being treated so well by everyone we met to tasting all of exquisite Franciacorta wines Before heading to the Milano airport we stopped by one last vineyard to close out our trip My favorite wine from Lo Sparviere was the saten After such a lovely morning with the Lo Sparviere team we were on our way to depart the lovely Franciacorta it is unlike many other wine brands for a variety of different reasons the people were so passionate and proud of the products they produce Today on the labels we read “Franciacorta: a single term to define territory method and wine.” Not to mention the sustainability element of the brand Franciacorta is internationally one of the first denominations for the share of organic viticulture” a rep for Franciacorta relays together with the sensitivity of the producers and their desire to protect the future of the territory and beauty and is most definitely an area to plan a trip around and explore There is something so incredible about how untouched it feels and I can’t wait to return Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on all the latest fashion news and juicy industry gossip document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id" "a12dac8ecd2513e6c7fc9f43d8a4d2eb" );document.getElementById("d628b68082").setAttribute( "id" and website in this browser for the next time I comment GET OUR HAUTEST STORIES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Stephane Bahier (L) is looking forward to renewing his rivalry with Mark Barr in Iseo Two of Para triathlon’s biggest rivals - France’s Stephane Bahier and USA’s Mark Barr - will go head to head once again on Saturday (30 June) at the International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Para Triathlon Series in Iseo the pair have raced against each other 10 times with Bahier finishing ahead of Barr six times Usually just seconds separate the two rivals in the PTS2 class but this weekend Bahier is anticipating a “hotly contested” race chasing Great Britain’s race favourite Andrew Lewis “I think there will be some suspense until the end for the podium places because if you look at this season’s results all the athletes behind Andrew Lewis appear to be on the same level,” Bahier said world and European champion Lewis has been in outstanding form this season leaving Bahier and Barr chasing for the final podium spots only nine seconds separated Barr taking silver and Bahier bronze and the two athletes have very different strengths With two fourth place finishes in swimming at the 2004 Paralympics Bahier’s strength is cycling - a sport he competed in at the 2008 Paralympics - meaning it often comes down to the run my race plan is simple - do not go out of the water too far behind him but it never happens,” the 43-year-old said very hard and finish the race running as fast as I can with the little strength left in me “I still have a lot of work to do in running and swimming but it's only the beginning of the season and I hope there will be good things to come,” Bahier added “The swimming is demanding and sometimes it is done without a suit because the water is often very hot,” said Bahier but when you are racing in a high temperature The running takes place in the beautiful streets of Iseo and if the temperature is the same as the previous years The men’s PTWC in Iseo features all three medallists from last year’s World Championships Canada’s world champion Stefan Daniel will compete in his first international event of the season in the men’s PTS5 Australia’s Lauren Parker will continue her Para triathlon journey in the women’s PTWC having already secured five podium finishes The USA’s Allysa Seely will aim to repeat her World Series win from Yokohama World champions Daniel Molina of Spain and France’s Elise Marc continue their seasons in the men’s and women’s PTS3 categories France’s Alexis Hanquinquant is unbeaten since June 2016 in the men’s PTS4 while Australia’s two-time world champion Sally Pilbeam will aim to improve her third-place finish from Yokohama in the women’s equivalent Great Britain’s world silver medallist Lauren Steadman was victorious in the women’s PTS5 at last year’s event but France’s world bronze medallist Gwladys Lemoussu will challenge Steadman’s compatriot and world champion Dave Ellis is the favourite in the men’s PTVI competition Spain’s world silver medallist Susana Rodriguez will go for a hat-trick of wins in 2018 in the women’s equivalent The 2018 Iseo World Para Triathlon Series can be followed online ShareSaveLifestyleTravel6 Ways To Enjoy This Amazing Insider Italian Lake NowByCatherine Sabino Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights Catherine Sabino is an editor and author who writes about travel.Follow AuthorAug 29 08:31am EDTShareSaveThis article is more than 5 years old.Isola di Loreto a sweeping neoclassic palazzo built by collector Count Luigi Tadini in the early 19th century with works by sculptor Antonio Canova and painter Jacopo Bellini Also in Lovere is the Basilica of Santa Maria Valvendra considered one of Italy’s most splendid churches Combining Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles it has 16th-century frescoes and nine chapels a castle dating from the late 11th century and Romanesque and Baroque churches to explore and restaurants with lakeside views to while away the afternoon where residents still turn out nets for their fishing activities A Riva employee test drives a boat on Lake Iseo near Sarnico Corte Franca is 7 kilometers from the town of Iseo.) The cellar at Il Mosnel in Camignone.in the Franciacorta wine territory More Bella/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Brut and Extra Dry); Franciacorta Rosé; the single-vintage Millesimato; and the Reserve Franciacorta is the territory’s big wine story but not the only one The area produces Rosso Bronzone and Valcalepio DOC both made with cabernet sauvignon and merlot grapes Iseo combines lakeside specialties with hearty dishes found in mountainous regions which is typically fried or seasoned with olive oil and served with polenta; tinca al forno (baked and stuffed tench or doctor fish) associated with the village of Clusane on the lake; spaghetti with crayfish; the ravioli-like casoncelli filled with cheeses or combinations of meat amaretti and raisins; and area sweets like bossola a buttery cake usually served during the Christmas season; and spongada The Festival Franciacorta in Cantina takes place on September 14 and 15 Cycling through the Franciacorta vineyards Beech and cypress trees and wisteria in a park in Pisogne Houses and shops in the historic center of Pisogne a former ancient trade road whose origin likely dates to Roman times Offering magnificent views of Lake Iseo and the Strada runs for some 25 kilometers between the towns of Pilzone d'Iseo and Pisogne on the eastern side of the lake but you can tackle it in sections that have varying degrees of difficulty In Pisogne make sure to visit the Santa Maria delle Neve church to see the remarkable frescoes by Girolamo di Romano touring its coastline and those of neighboring islets Loreto and San Paolo. For more information about the lake, go to VisitLakeIseo.info The final product features a metallic-blue hull and blue-and-white upholstery not seen on her prototype. It also has a fully digital, touchscreen dashboard that mimics the analogue displays of past boats. Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi explained: "When you go electric you don’t want it to be a joke. You have to remember two things, safety and endurance. You don’t want to have to call the coastguard in the middle of the sea. There must be safety features on board that remind you if you're playing too smart and too quick with the power." The Riva El-Iseo is powered by a full electric motor and high-density lithium battery pack with a capacity of 150 kWh. According to Riva, the acceleration curve is "significantly steeper than that of a similarly sized boat powered by an internal combustion engine". The model also offers plenty of scope for exploration with up to ten hours of navigation in economy mode. These tranquil lakes offer a quieter alternative to their coastal neighbours Lake holidays are underrated. Often skimmed over in favour of sun, sea and sand, travelling inland can, in fact, make for a refreshing change. While it's tempting to be lured by glitzy destinations like Lake Como, Europe is home to an array of lesser known – yet equally beautiful – lakes.  These tranquil bodies of water can be cooler and quieter than their coastal neighbours, and still offer many of the water-sports you find at the beach. From Slovenia's lesser-known gem to an unspoilt archipelago in Finland here are some of the best lakeside getaways in Europe Lying across the southern edge of the Highlands, Loch Lomond is Britain's biggest lake, by surface area. And, located in a "prize spot" right on its banks, said Lauren Burvill in Condé Nast Traveller The "quintessential Scottish pile" is the perfect base from which to explore the "glorious Highland setting" spanning everything from loch cruises to jet-skiing and kayaking guests can head out on foot to explore the hills and glens of The Trossachs National Park Fringed by mountains with the Camonica valley to the north and Franciacorta wine country to the south "ferries criss-cross the lake" linking the little towns and mediaeval villages on its shores Take a boat out to Monte Isola in the middle of the lake and climb to the hilltop church for breathtaking views Accommodation is very reasonably priced: consider camping right by the water at Campeggio Cave in Iseo At the eastern end of the Austrian lakeside in Bregenz take a cable car up to the peak of Pfänder mountain for panoramic vistas across the Alps it's also well worth taking a "voyage" out to Mainau near the city of Konstanz in Germany – a stunning garden island that "dazzles with its Mediterranean flowers Thanks to strict laws, the waters of Lake Annecy are said to be among the purest in Europe. "Honestly, your bath water is no cleaner," said Kerry Walker in Lonely Planet The town of Annecy on the lake's "northern cusp" is the "springboard for exploring" – the mediaeval old town is filled with "pastel-painted houses" and "enticing bistros" while the castle (once home to the counts of Geneva) has uninterrupted views over the rooftops that will "make you audibly sigh" The lake itself offers ample chances to paddleboard Far less crowded than the glamorous Lake Bled, said Anabelle Thorpe in The Telegraph the "dramatic scenery of the Julian Alps is equally breathtaking" This is the perfect spot for those who fare badly in the heat; the average August temperature is 22 degrees so it's "rarely too hot" to explore the network of trails "knitted around the lake" guests can unwind in the Finnish sauna before enjoying "hearty dinners of traditional Slovenian dishes" at the restaurant The family-run hotel's jetty is an excellent starting point for the many water sports on offer Irenie Forshaw is a features writer at The Week She began her career in journalism at Leeds University before working at The Guardian and The New Statesman Group Irenie then became a senior writer at Elite Traveler Riva has revealed the brand’s first electric prototype – the El-Iseo. Unveiled during Ferretti’s Private Preview (September 5), hosted at the Monaco Yacht Club, the landmark moment for the brand coincides with Riva’s 180th anniversary. An adaption of the Iseo model the 8.2 metre runabout is powered by a Parker GVM310 full electric engine. With a power output of 250 kW and 300 kW peak, the Riva prototype has cruising speed of 25 knots and a self-limited top speed of 40 knots. According to Riva the acceleration curve is “significantly steeper than that of a similarly sized boat powered by an internal combustion engine”. The model also offers plenty of scope for exploration with up to ten hours of navigation in economy mode. Speaking at the press event at the Cannes Yachting Festival (September 6), Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi, explained the strategy behind the prototype. “When you go electric you don’t want it to be a joke,” he said. “You have to remember two things, safety and endurance. You don’t want to have to call the coastguard in the middle of the sea. There must be safety features on board that remind you if you're playing to smart and too quick with the power.” The El-Iseo features the finishes, colours and detail that are associated with Riva. It also has a fully digital, touchscreen dashboard that mimics the analogue displays of past boats. In a further nod to the brand’s heritage the three drive models are named are the tempos of classic music – Allegro, Andante and Adagio. Galassi explained that in order to ensure that the El-Iseo meets the “Riva standard”  it would not be introduced to the market until the end of 2023 at the earliest. “We are testing it in all possible conditions. It has to be easy, functional and safe. You cannot play with the brand Riva,” he added. on june 18, 2016, christo and jeanne-claude reveal their first work in italy in more than 40 years italy’s lake iseo — an area 100 kilometers east of milan — will be connected by a modular floating dock system made up of 220,000 high-density poly-ethylene cubes and covered in 100,000 square meters of shimmering yellow fabric undulating with the movement of the waves, visitors can experience ‘the floating piers’ as they walk from sulzano to monte isola and to the island of san paolo the 3-kilometer-long walkway extends clear across the water with surrounding mountains offering a bird’s-eye view of golden network of passageways that lead in and around the city the fabric will continue along 1.5 kilometers of pedestrian streets in sulzano and peschiera maraglio workers install the 100 x 16 meter sections that connect the island of san paolo with the island of monte isolaphoto by wolfgang volz, may 2016 the original concept for ‘the floating piers’ was conceived together with christo’s creative and life partner jeanne-claude in 1970. the couple knew a floating pier would rise just above the surface of the water but they did not know which river or lake would best suit the project unrealized renditions proposed a 2,000-meter-long inflated pier on the delta of the rio de la plata in argentina. in 1995 the idea was still active in the artists’ minds — they suggested the creation two floating piers which would connect two artificial islands in tokyo bay and continue through odaiba park this iteration was also unrealized following the denial of a permit.  aerial view of the project’s building yard on the montecolino peninsula (left) and the parking area for the thirty 100 x 16 meter sections on lake iseo (right)photo by wolfgang volz, april 2016 jeanne-claude passed away in november 2009 but christo continues the couple’s monumental practice. in 2014 the artist and his team scouted the lakes of northern italy and found lake iseo to be the most inspiring location for the project the exhibition marks christo’s first large scale work following christo and jeanne-claude’s realization of ‘the gates’ back in in 2005 all components will be removed and industrially recycled aerial view of the project’s building yard on the montecolino peninsula (right) and the temporary storage on lake iseo (left)photo by wolfgang volz, february 2016 the artists’ aim has always been to create works of art for the public to experience and enjoy, without charging any viewing fees ‘the floating piers’ is absolutely free and accessible 24 hours a day the floating piers are an extension of the street and belong to everyone.’ see sketches and drawings of ‘the floating piers’ by christo in our previous coverage of the installation here.  christo is delighted as the piers undulate with the movement of the wavesphoto by wolfgang volz workers start to encircle the island of san paolo with the first floating elementsphoto by wolfgang volz workers install the felt that will cover the floating cubesphoto by wolfgang volz felt is added to the piers before the yellow fabric is installedphoto by wolfgang volz the felt that will cover the cubes underneath the yellow fabric is transported from montecolino to san paolo island by elimast helicopter servicephoto by wolfgang volz which are produced in 100-meter-long segments and stored outside montecolino on lake iseophoto by wolfgang volz 75,000 square meters of yellow fabric are sewn into panels 90,000 square meters of shimmering yellow fabric are producedphoto by wolfgang volz 200,000 high-density polyethylene cubes are manufacturedphoto by wolfgang volz the cubes have been manufactured over a period of eight months before delivered to the project’s storage in montecolinophoto by wolfgang volz christo in his studio working on a preparatory drawing for the floating piers november 2015photo by wolfgang volz © 2015 christo 201417 x 22″ (43.2 x 55.9 cm) /pencil fabric sample and tape photo by andré grossmann © 2014 christo 2014 — in two parts12 x 30 1/2″ and 26 1/4 x 30 1/2″ (30.5 x 77.5 cm and 66.7 x 77.5 cm)pencil cut-out photographs by wolfgang volz and mapphoto by andré grossmann © 2014 christo AXOR presents three bathroom concepts that are not merely places of function but destinations in themselves — sanctuaries of style visitors can now experience ‘the floating piers’ as they walk from sulzano to monte isola and to the island of san paolo the 3 kilometer-long walkway extends clear across the water with surrounding mountains offering a bird’s-eye view of a golden network of passageways that lead in and around the town the fabric continues along 1.5 kilometers of pedestrian streets in sulzano and peschiera maraglio ‘the floating piers’ opens to the public on june 18th photo by wolfgang volz © christo  the concept for ‘the floating piers’ was conceived by christo and jeanne-claude — the artist’s creative and life partner — in 1970 the couple originally did not know which river or lake would best suit the project unrealized renditions proposed a 2,000 meter-long inflated pier on the delta of the rio de la plata in argentina the idea was still active in the artists’ minds they suggested the creation of two floating piers pedestrians begin to make their way along the fabric in the streets  photo by wolfgang volz © christo  the exhibition is presented for just 16 days the towns of sulzano and peschiera maraglio are covered in yellow fabric  photo by wolfgang volz © christo see sketches and drawings of ‘the floating piers’ by christo in our previous coverage of the installation here.  ‘the floating piers’ photographed the day prior to its opening  photo by wolfgang volz © christo  the unfurling of 100,000 square meters of shimmering yellow fabric is nearly completed photo by wolfgang volz © christo  installation in progress on june 16th photo by wolfgang volz © christo  the final stages of construction take place  photo by wolfgang volz © christo  the towns are lined with shimmering fabric  photo by wolfgang volz © christo  the original concept for ‘the floating piers’ was conceived in 1970 photo by wolfgang volz © christo  all components of the installation will be removed and industrially recycled photo by wolfgang volz © christo  the installation is free for the public to experience and enjoy photo by wolfgang volz © christo  the fabric wrapping on the water in its finishing stages photo by wolfgang volz © christo  work is nearly completed on ‘the floating piers’  photo by wolfgang volz © christo  in progress: june 15th  photo by wolfgang volz © christo  workers unfurl 100,000 square meters of yellow fabric on the piers and pedestrian streets photo by wolfgang volz © christo  installation progress continues on the evening of june 15th photo by wolfgang volz © christo  workers begin to run yellow fabric through streets in sulzano and peschiera maraglio photo by wolfgang volz © christo  The artwork is an immense 3km walkway comprised of a whopping 100,000 sq m of yellow fabric The pier stretches from Sulzano to Monte Isola Keeping in tune with the lake’s flowing waterways they have scattered the sunshine textile over 220,000 high-density polyethylene cubes to allow people to kiss the surface of the water with their steps The dynamic install has taken months to prepare via water and air Commercial divers from France anchored the piece from depths of up to 90m below the surface The project was originally conceived back in 1970 and it is totally funded through Christo’s sales of original works people can observe the scorching mustard-hued snake running through the azure waters ‘The light and water will transform the bright yellow fabric to shades of red and gold throughout the 16 days,’ Christo explains The Floating Piers is on view until 3 July. For more information, visit Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s website Sujata Burman is a writer and editor based in London She was Digital Design Editor at Wallpaper* before moving to her current role of Head of Content at London Design Festival and London Design Biennale where she is expanding the content offering of the showcases Sujata has written for global design and culture publications moderator and judge for institutions and brands including RIBA, D&AD she co-authored her first book, An Opinionated Guide to London Architecture which was driven by her aim to make the fields of design and architecture accessible to wider audiences.  The Riva El-Iseo electric speedboat blends classic Italian lines with a silent Riva first showed the prototype El-Iseo at Monaco in 2022 El-Iseo is finished with the familiar polished mahogany deck and stern platform with stainless steel details and deck equipment It’s closely related to the conventionally powered Iseo model The helm station has a fully digital dashboard with two touchscreen displays providing charts and battery status while the rest of the cockpit is beautifully trimmed and furnished for guests to lounge Under the hull is a high-energy-density lithium battery pack driving a Parker GVM310 full electric engine from American manufacturer Parker Hannifin This gives the El-Iseo a top speed of 40 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots as well as much swifter acceleration than a conventionally-powered equivalent the 150 kWh battery pack can be fast charged with Riva suggesting a 20 to 80 per cent charge can be achieved in 75 minutes Power can be delivered through three different cruising modes The first is for the most economical use of power with a limited top speed of five knots and the ability to spend up to ten hours pottering about between bays with zero sound or emissions Andante mode lifts the maximum speed to 25 knots while Allegro is the all-out maximum sporting mode Should you drop below 20 per cent charge while out on the water the boat will automatically enter Adagio mode to preserve your chances of getting home without running out of power The electric boating scene is still confined to high-end and Riva’s innovation is a welcome step in the greening of conspicuous consumption time to electrify that most profligate all modes of transport Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox. 2016Photo: Wolfgang Volz / Courtesy of Christo and Jeanne-ClaudeSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAs if Lake Iseo wasn’t picturesque enough today marks the official opening of the artist Christo’s latest work this is his first major public installation since 2005 featuring 220,000 floating cubes covered in orange waterproof fabric that connect to form a bridge and span almost two miles This installation was first conceived by Christo and Jean-Claude it also marks a moment in the spotlight for Lake Iseo itself the jet-setting elite has become excited about this newly discovered playland wood-surrounded body of water the new Lake Como Iseo boasts the largest lake island in Western Europe and is surrounded by gorgeous vineyards It is also home to a couple of Michelin-star restaurants and stunning five-star hotels With its quiet charm and subtle luxuriousness and with Christo’s major debut on the water Iseo is poised to have one of its most beautiful summers ever take in everything that Italy’s true hidden gem has to offer Riva LagoSituated right on the water of Lake Iseo 28-room Italian villa–style hotel with some of the best views in the area Guests can swim in the lake directly from the hotel’s private dock or lounge around the pool and garden area There is also golf and tennis for leisure when you aren’t strolling along Christo’s The Floating Piers Due ColombeOne of the area’s Michelin-star restaurants Due Colombe is located in the small village of Franciacorta and is helmed by chef Stefano Cerveni The traditional stone walls and wood beam ceilings of this restaurant are complemented by the locally inspired menu composed of dishes like squid veils as well as spaghettoni with salted codfish cream La ForestaThis casual family-run hotel and eatery is located on Monte Isola the island in the middle of the lake that is now accessible via Christo’s incredible pathway as well as house-made pastas and cured meats that are perfect for a delightful midday lunch Contadi CastaldiThis gorgeous vineyard has been open in Franciacorta near the lake since 1987 and is open for guests to tour and taste its wine The winery boasts over 240 acres of land and specializes in sparkling varieties After you’ve walked the The Floating Piers Contadi Castaldi provides the perfect setting for a glass or two of vino Boot Düsseldorf in Germany witnessed a groundbreaking moment in the world of luxury boating as Riva unveiled the El-Iseo an electrifying addition to their already prestigious lineup Making its grand debut at the Monaco Yacht Show this 27-foot day boat is more than just a vessel; it’s a statement of sophistication and innovation on the high seas It represents Riva’s bold foray into the realm of full electric offerings Powered by a robust Parker GVM310 engine boasting an impressive 340 horsepower the El-Iseo effortlessly cruises at a top speed of 40 knots But what sets this boat apart is its sustainable heart a 150 kW lithium-ion battery that ensures a remarkable 10 hours of power between charges This sets a new standard for electric boating and emphasizes Riva’s commitment to eco-friendly luxury and you’ll be captivated by its seamless blend of modern design and classic elegance The sleek metallic blue hull glistens in the sunlight The luxurious wooden deck is a testament to craftsmanship a surface that invites you to step aboard and experience the epitome of comfort and style The two-tone seats add a touch of contemporary flair completing the boat’s aesthetic appeal But the El-Iseo is not just about looks; it’s a technological marvel you’ll be greeted by a state-of-the-art touchscreen panel with intuitive digital controls This modern interface puts the power of the boat at your fingertips allowing for effortless navigation and control the El-Iseo offers three distinct drive modes ensuring a customized sailing experience tailored to your preferences For those seeking adventure on the open water the Riva El-Iseo is the ultimate companion Whether you’re cruising along the coast or exploring hidden coves this electric boat guarantees an unforgettable journey Its eco-friendly nature not only reduces your carbon footprint but also provides a serene and quiet ride allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the beauty of your surroundings the Riva El-Iseo is more than just a boat; it’s a symbol of luxury set sail on your maritime adventures with the Riva El-Iseo and experience the pinnacle of luxury on the high seas For more information about the Riva El-Iseo, visit Riva Yacht Input your search keywords and press Enter. linking two Italian islands to the mainland The $16.8 million project, called ‘Floating Piers,’ is the first outdoor installation since the golden gates in Central Park in 2005 which he installed with his late wife and collaborator Jeanne-Claude ‘Floating Piers’ consists of floating walkways covered with golden fabric connecting two islands in Lake Iseo The walkways span three kilometers across the water and is expected to draw up to 40,000 visitors a day it’s part of the physicality of the project The project runs from Saturday through July 3 Write to Charlotte Alter at charlotte.alter@time.com Angus MacKenzieWriterJul 05 It was raining hard last night as we pulled into Innsbruck and a city with a history that dates back almost 900 years It's still raining when I wake at 4:30 a.m for today we are heading deep into the Alps for a run across the famed Stelvio Pass Located where Switzerland kisses Italy and Austria,the 9045-ft Stelviois one of the highest paved passes in the Alps and until 1936 the highest pass you could take a car over anywhere in the world it reaches a one in nine gradient at some points The view of the road wriggling like spilled spaghetti down the ancient glacial valley on the northern side of the pass is one of the most iconic in motoring We check out of the hotel and gas up shortly after 6 a.m Despite yesterday's autobahn blasting That's largely because when the A7 autobahn head-butts the Alps south of Stuttgart and the traffic volume means you can only cruise along because premium is currentlyrunning $9.97 a gallon in Innsbruck Whoa!I think my Amex card just caught fire.. Clouds cloak the mountains as we run west along the streaming wet A12 motorway This first 45 minutes or so is the only dual carriageway we'll see all day -- the rest is all two-lane We take the road to Pfunds through picture postcard Alpine meadows and cross the border into Italynear the top of the 4934-ft Reschenpassbefore sweeping down into the Adige valley Good news: We've left the rain behind Better news: The turnoff to 30 miles of astonishing mountain road is just ahead The road starts to climb relentlessly from the town of Prato allo Stelvio first twisting through thick pine forest before bursting out of the treeline we get a magnificent view of the rock-bare mountains with last winter's ice and snow still snuggled in the shady spots and a glacier sparkling in the sunshine.There are 48 hairpin turns -- all numbered-- and the Challenger needs full lock to get around most of them the road loops back on itself three or four times in the space of a few hundred yards With the transmission left in drive the big Dodge oozes up the mountain surfing the 6.1L Hemi's 420 lb-ft of torque The transmission will adjust its shift protocol to your driving style it's best to slap the shifter into manumatic mode and choose the shift points yourself with such a severe camber change on the apex that the inside wheel starts to spin and the nanny shuts down the fire just as you need it to grunt the car out of the turn On a road that would be a tight fit for a Lancer Evo the Challenger feels like a linebacker at a square dance but it dives into the turns crisply and punches hard along the short straights I wind down the window and hear an edgy crackle to the pounding V-8 bass line echoing off the stone walls Perhaps that's why the Challenger draws an enthusiastic response as we pull into Stelvio's crowded summit tourists and skiers all crowd around the Hemi-orange coupe asking questions and taking photos.The Germans and Italians -- especially the Italians -- love the muscular all-American extravagance of the Challenger.But they're glad they're not paying the gas bills The dramatic north side of the Stelvio is the glamorpuss of the pass thanks to that one iconic view down the north side but the smoother south side - with 46 hairpin turns only marginally less sinuous - offers a greater variety of truly stunning mountain panoramas Photographer Brian Vance keeps jumping out of the car: "Just one more shot Just one more..." You'll want to drive this bit twice: Once for the road and once just to admire the scenery you can dial in just the right amount of oversteer with your right foot I'd like a little less travel in the brake pedal before the Brembos start to bite and less of a gap between second and third gears you couldn't have driven any American car on this road with this must gusto part of a digital display package that can also show your 0-60-mph tells the tale:We've pulled .72 g under brakes and .67 g through the turnsin real-world driving conditions we turn left off the main route and drive a few hundred yards to cross the border into Switzerland just for the hell of it -- and to bring the total number of countries the Challenger will visit this trip to six Then we turn back and curl and twist and sweep and swoop among the swarms of motorcycles down into the town of Bormio (Hot tip: If you want to drive the Stelvio with purpose before the sun gets the bikers buzzing like flies.) Photography by Brian Vance - click on any photo for a larger image PREVIOUS ULTIMATE CHALLENGER ROAD TRIP POSTS: * Ultimate Challenger Road Trip: Day 3 - Stuttgart to Innsbruck *London Calling: The UltimateDodge ChallengerRoad Trip - Introduction Subscribe to our newsletters to get the latest in car news and have editor curated stories sent directly to your inbox. © 2025 MotorTrend | MOTOR TREND GROUP, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Created by Bulgarian–born artist Christo, “The Floating Piers” were supposed to be open for 24-hours a day until July 3. The enormous 1.9-mile floating walkway has become a major attraction with 270,000 visitors since its debut on Saturday — well beyond organizers’ estimates of 500,000 people over the 16 days In order to give the maintenance crew time to repair the wear-and-tear and local authorities the chance to clean up after the thousands of visitors officials will close the floating pontoon between midnight and 6 a.m “feel like they are walking on water – or perhaps the back of a whale.” [AFP] Contact us at letters@time.com A gesture of solidarity marks the end of a long journey for Isaeo Pavanello “Today unfortunately I came for the last time to donate blood” Iseo Pavanello has been living in Malta for 45 years Tuesday morning was the last time he donated blood As he signs to donate blood for the last time “I’m happy and satisfied with my gesture Pavanello expressed his wish to see more politicians donate blood but for me it would be the cherry on the cake.” appealed to youths to donate blood and save lives She explained that every bag of blood is used in operations cancer treatments and for emergency treatment “We need more young versions of Iseo blood may possibly be the best gift a person receives In the heart of the park of Villa Milesi on Lovere’s splendid lakefront is the exhibition space created since the 1990s with the aim of collecting preserving and displaying scientific artifacts to the public and raising awareness of the local natural and historical heritage The museum is divided into several sections all extremely rich in exhibits There is first of all the ornithological one Today the museum itinerary unfolds in the rooms on the building’s main floor The first part contains numerous works acquired by the count during numerous trips to Italy in the second half of the 18th century contains a collection of paintings from various Italian schools which grew out of the donation of Giovanni Battista Zitti’s collection of Garibaldian memorabilia Inside the splendid 15th-century palazzo Gervasoni is the Museo Civico d’Arte e del Territorio The palace was formerly a convent as can still be seen from the presence of the cloister and gallery today it houses a large picture gallery divided on three floors and the result of an important donation by Don Gianni Bellini A total of about 150 works are preserved in Sarnico mostly period paintings dating from the 16th to the 18th century Period furniture and ancient marble and wooden statues are also part of the collection With its forests, steep shores and quaint villages reflected in the waters Montisola (or Monte Isola) is probably the best known place on Lake Iseo historical and naturalistic treasure chest Its evocative beauty also won over the famous land artist Christo who created a large network of floating pontoons here in 2016 linking Montisola with the coast of Sulzano and the island of San Paolo on Montisola: one can delve into the dense network of paths that run throughout its territory one can climb up to the ancient Martinengo fortress get lost discovering villages and hamlets or stop to admire churches shrines and noble villas that dot both its coastline and interior Classified as a wetland of international importance, theTorbiere del Sabino nature reserve is one of the cradles of life in the entire Po Valley Here there is a wide variety of habitats that are home to numerous aquatic marsh species now threatened with extinction not only in Lombardy There are numerous trails that wind through the territory of the reserve and allow close observation of plants and animals in a wild and unspoiled habitat among them the most striking is probably the central one that winds through wooden footbridges that connect the different tongues of land right in the heart of this territory In Provaglio d’Iseo, above a rocky rise is the Monastery of San Pietro in Lamosa a very ancient building overlooking the peat bogs The monastery is believed to have been built where ancient pagan and early Christian temples stood in antiquity; instead traces of the construction of an early church date back to the 11th century which was later donated to the monks of the Abbey of Cluny and then became the center of the economic and religious life of the area The Cluniac monks remained there until the 15th century and traces of their passage are still clearly visible even though today the church has distinctly 15th- and 16th-century features Numerous works of fine workmanship are preserved inside including a fine cycle of frescoes of theHistoria salutis dating from the 15th-16th centuries which is located in the adjoining oratory of Santa Maria Maddalena Also worth seeing in Iseo is the church of San Silvestro: this marvelous Romanesque church is believed to have been the private oratory of the bishop of Brescia when he stayed at length on Lake Iseo in the summer the church of San Silvestro consists of a single hall divided into two floors the property of the confraternity of the Disciplini is evidenced by the frescoes depicting some members of the order Particularly striking is the recently restored fresco of the Dance Macabre in which a number of characters are still recognizable a king and a merchant with his own purse of denarii the village of Lovere is one of its most charming and historic corners getting lost among the mountain peaks and clear waters is an experience to be absolutely tried as well as stopping to discover the many treasures guarded by this jewel of a town Starting from the splendid Piazza del Porto with its majestic buildings that frame it penetrate into the square and narrow streets to admire the old civic tower or the ancient church of San Giorgio and then descend back to the lakefront where Palazzo Tadini with its Accademia is located and is set in a context rich in aristocratic villas whose imposing facades are reflected in the lake Also not to be missed is a visit to the basilica of Santa Maria in Valvendra Sulzano is undoubtedly one of the most characteristic places on Lake Iseo with old houses that are literally lapped by the waters This fishing village is one of the starting points for excursions up to Montisola but it is above all one of those rare places that can enrapture the heart of the traveler as soon as he sets foot in it Among hidden alleys and characteristic landing places for fishermen’s boats one can touch the history of the lake and its very ancient community In this truly evocative and picturesque setting dating from the 18th century and an admirable example of Baroque style the coeval church of San Giorgio deserve special attention Situated at the crossroads of ancient pilgrim roads the 15th-century Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Giogo is one of the best places from which to enjoy all the majesty of Lake Iseo and and nearby Val Trompia and is the perfect starting point for so many excursions Next to the church of Santa Maria is a refuge where in ancient times Benedictine monks housed wayfarers and which today is run by a group of Alpini has a very simple style that derives from the functions for which it was originally designed-that is to house and assist those who were passing through this pass Many throughout the centuries have stayed within these imposing walls and found refreshment there island hopping and stumbling upon trattorias in the romantic (and underrated) north Italian paradise of Lake Iseo Get your weekly dose of armchair travelling Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience From the Cantieri Riva boatyard to roads that wind their way through vineyards and historic villages the region between Brescia and Lake Iseo celebrates the past present and future of cars and boats alike you’ll find centres of excellence and extraordinarily scenic routes many of which are dotted with top-quality Michelin-starred restaurants The world’s most sought-after classic motorboats roads that twist and turn through beautiful countryside and the sculpted bodywork of extraordinary collections of vintage cars all combine to make the Franciacorta region an ideal destination for high-end tourism The area’s wine production and fine cuisine add extra appeal to the many routes that wend their way from gentle lakeside landscapes to spectacular winding ascents attracting large numbers of motorbike riders as well as contemporary and classic car enthusiasts all of whom are in search of unique motoring experiences Driving through Franciacorta’s historical and natural landscapes panoramic roads offer interesting historical with one of the most spectacular routes being the SP48 that links the village of Iseo to Gardone Val Trompia The ascent is comparable to an Alpine pass from where you can admire the glacial waters of the lake and the farmland below as well as the silhouettes of old stone villages such as Lovere and Riva di Solto Perhaps take a break from driving with an enjoyable boat trip from Sulzano to Monte Isola home to the region’s renowned dried sardines (a Slow Food Presidium) and just a stone’s throw from the yards of a major Italian motorboat and yacht manufacturer that makes for a fascinating visit The Riva company’s boatyard – a focus on style Founded in 1842 by shipwright Pietro Riva, Cantieri Riva in Sarnico has played an important role in boating history thanks to its timeless design of wooden motorboats such as the Aquarama and Rivarama models From its earliest successes in yacht racing in the 1930s to its status as an iconic brand during the Fellini “Dolce Vita” period and the more recent introduction of its exclusive the Riva brand has always symbolised elegance If you visit the company’s historic headquarters in Sarnico (designed by Carlo Riva and now a protected building under the auspices of the Sovrintendenza ai Beni Ambientali organisation) you can admire the sinuous silhouettes of vintage boats with their chrome instrumentation and soft pastel upholstery https://guide.michelin.com/enVintage car rallies and Michelin restaurants The lure of vintage cars is not, however, restricted to driving events alone. Since 1975, the Luzzago dealership at 65 Via della Mandolossa on the outskirts of Brescia has built its reputation on the restoration and sale of classic cars Its exhibition space houses cars dating from the early 20C alongside more modern vehicles including vintage Ferraris and highly-sought-after models such as the Mercedes SL 190 1936 Triumph Vitesse Gloria Southern Cross Driving a Michelin Pilot Sport on the Franciacorta racetrack If you’re keen to experience track-driving first hand, head to the Porsche Experience Center Franciacorta where the many activities on offer include the chance to drive a 911 GT3 fitted with high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres visitors can try their hand at various low-friction activities at the wheel of other cars from Porsche’s Zuffenhausen factory or perhaps test-drive its latest electric models and an exhibition of historic and latest-generation race and road cars as well as a restaurant overlooking the track Illustration image: Luzzago's collection - Credit Luzzago Giornalista dal 2004 con Laurea e Master in Storia e Relazioni Internazionali presso la LSE visita i sette continenti e approfondisce ogni giorno la sua passione per cucina hotellerie di charme e tradizioni del territorio italiano From listening bars to neighbourhood restaurants explore all the top recommendations from Chishuru’s Adejoké Bakare One of the most prominent chefs serving Indian cuisine talks India and his New York these splurge-worthy hotels have the design and prestige to rival even that most historic of city landmarks The first hotel on this list is just 20 minutes from Florence From vineyards to infinity pools and farm-to-table restaurants every one of these 14 Tuscan classics is within two hours of the city destination partner for the MICHELIN Guide Italia 2025 With its range of innovative solutions to facilitate more mindful travel that has less of an impact on the environment – including state-of-the-art tyres for cars which remains an invaluable source of reliable advice – MICHELIN contributes to making each and every one of your journeys more enjoyable From Michelin-starred and Bib Gourmand restaurants to charming residences nestled in the beautiful Italian countryside the MICHELIN Guide helps make your travels even more special wine-producers and Consortium members reveal their favourite places and hidden gems in the Franciacorta region The intoxicating nuances of Franciacorta wines over the centuries and a strong wine tradition in a region with a unique microclimate Not only is the Franciacorta region home to excellent food and wine beautiful vineyards and charming tourist sights dotted between Brescia and the shores of Lake Iseo it also boasts a rich artistic heritage and a vibrant arts and crafts tradition white and rosé wines include many different grape varieties and methods of production and provide the perfect accompaniment to the region’s cuisine It has been suggested that the unusual name of this region lying between Brescia and Lake Iseo is a reference to France (Francia in Italian) although another interpretation favours the idea that the area was once a corte franca or a free zone exempt from the payment of taxes to the monks who cultivated the land here Non-members can add the privileges at checkout through our 30 day free trial By continuing I accept the Terms & Condition and Privacy Policy. I would like to receive Newsletter from MICHELIN Guide Save lists of your favorite restaurants & hotels The world\u2019s most sought-after classic motorboats The area\u2019s wine production and fine cuisine add extra appeal to the many routes that wend their way from gentle lakeside landscapes to spectacular winding ascents Driving through Franciacorta\u2019s historical and natural landscapes home to the region\u2019s renowned dried sardines (a Slow Food Presidium) and just a stone\u2019s throw from the yards of a major Italian motorboat and yacht manufacturer that makes for a fascinating visit The Riva company\u2019s boatyard \u2013 a focus on style Founded in 1842 by shipwright Pietro Riva, Cantieri Riva in Sarnico has played an important role in boating history thanks to its timeless design of wooden motorboats such as the Aquarama and Rivarama models From its earliest successes in yacht racing in the 1930s to its status as an iconic brand during the Fellini \u201cDolce Vita\u201d period and the more recent introduction of its exclusive If you visit the company\u2019s historic headquarters in Sarnico (designed by Carlo Riva and now a protected building under the auspices of the Sovrintendenza ai Beni Ambientali organisation) The lure of vintage cars is not, however, restricted to driving events alone. Since 1975, the Luzzago dealership at 65 If you\u2019re keen to experience track-driving first hand, head to the Porsche Experience Center Franciacorta visitors can try their hand at various low-friction activities at the wheel of other cars from Porsche\u2019s Zuffenhausen factory