by Federica Lassi
Photos of Nicoletta and Diego – Globe Kiter
In early spring, the lake around Colico begins to populate with colourful sails, contrasting with the blue hues of the waves, rippled by the wind. These little dots in the distance, together with the arrival of the Breva wind, herald a new start to the season for windsurfing and kitesurfing activities, which can be practised either independently or with the support of schools throughout the fine season, which runs from March/April to September. With the early autumn months, in fact, the Breva, a thermal afternoon wind blowing from the south, leaves the lake. Without it, the various sailing sports would be impracticable. The starting point for windsurfing and kitesurfing is the Colico spot, apparently in a disadvantaged position because it is located far from the area of the lake where the activities normally take place, but which in reality allows practitioners to go up it and choose the area with the best wind or the least crowded. Establishing in advance areas of the lake where the wind is optimal for practice is unthinkable, although the best chance is north of Dervio, where the lake narrows and the so-called ‘Venturi effect’ is created. It may be, however, that conditions prove perfect in other areas, such as between Gravedona, Domaso or Dorio. In addition to the morphology of the lake, hills or obstacles can also determine the wind conditions. What is the basis for choosing kitesurfing or windsurfing? For those who love adrenaline, undoubtedly opt for kitesurfing: even with the first lessons as a beginner, this will be the dominant feeling.
Moreover, progress in learning can be seen immediately, allowing immediate enjoyment. In windsurfing, on the other hand, as it is a very technical sport, much more practice is needed to get the hang of it. On the surface, it looks like a simple activity because all you need is a light wind and the right equipment to sail independently and in a few hours without any problems, but in reality, it takes practice and a lot of perseverance to get to a good level. For these reasons, windsurfing is recommended for those who want to spend a day on the lake with friends or companions, taking it easy, enjoying moments together; whereas kitesurfing is a sport designed more for individuals, also for safety issues, especially when it comes to managing lessons. Also influencing the decision between one and the other is the person's attitude. In Colico, there are schools such as Globe Kiter that offer courses, lessons and sessions for both activities, which can cover levels from basic to advanced, or just some of them, held in groups or individually. Some are only held midweek due to, among other things, the strong presence of weekend patrons on the lake. Assistance can also be offered to kite surfers on their own through lift and ‘downwind’ services, where athletes are transported by boat in the middle of the lake and, at the end of the activity, accompanied by a dinghy or boat that sails with them to the Colico spot, then taking them back to land. There is also an area dedicated to free riders going out independently, taking advantage of the optimum wind direction.
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