Around La Corte · Along the Adda

Leonardo's ferry at Imbersago

On the Adda, a cable ferry uses the river current to connect Imbersago and Villa d'Adda, within a landscape associated with Leonardo's legacy.

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A crossing powered by the water

The ferry needs no engine: it is attached to a cable stretched between the two banks and moves through the force of the current. The crossing is short, but it makes the relationship between ingenuity, river and landscape visible.

From Imbersago it reaches the Bergamo-side bank at Villa d'Adda and forms part of the Ecomuseo Adda di Leonardo. Before setting out, it is essential to check that the service is operating, as river level and weather can bring it to a stop.

The river, ingenuity and two banks

The visit works best when you observe not only the ferry, but also the system that moves it and the landscape it connects.

The force of the current

The ferry positions its hulls at an angle to the flow of the Adda. The current produces the force needed for the crossing, while the cable keeps the vessel on the line between the two banks.

Leonardo's mark

Leonardo studied hydraulic solutions along the Adda, and a drawing of a ferry dated 1513 is held in the Windsor Codex. This connection is part of the place's identity, although there is no definitive proof that the system at Imbersago was his invention.

The two banks of the Adda

The crossing connects Imbersago and Villa d'Adda and invites you to view the river from a different perspective. Even without continuing far, the brief passage on the water changes the rhythm of the visit.

A visit combining the crossing and a riverside walk

The ferry can be the centre of a short visit or the beginning of a walk along the Adda. The order of the day should allow for the possibility that the service may be suspended.

Reach the Imbersago landing
Set out from La Corte and arrive at the ferry square. Before travelling, check online or by phone that the service is operating and confirm the current access arrangements.
Observe the system
Before boarding, look at the cable, the angle of the hulls and the movement of the water: understanding how it works is an essential part of the experience.
Cross the Adda
When the service is operating, reach the Villa d'Adda bank and decide whether to return straight away or spend a few minutes on the opposite side.
Continue along the river
Complete the visit with a short walk along the banks, keeping the ferry as your point of reference and respecting the paths and natural areas.

Before boarding

Operation depends on the river. A quick check before leaving prevents unnecessary waits and makes it easier to plan an alternative along the Adda.

Operation: Check the service on the day of your visit.
Weather and water level: The ferry may stop in adverse conditions or when the river is too high or too low.
Booking: Individual visitors do not generally need to book; groups should contact the operator.
Fares: Check current fares on the official website.
Vehicles and bicycles: Check the arrangements and availability for the vehicle or bicycle you are travelling with.
Accessibility: Contact the operator about mobility or assistance requirements.

Location

Piazzale Leonardo da Vinci — 23898 Imbersago (LC)

Directions in Google Maps

Keep exploring the surroundings

Each day can take a different direction. Continue with another nearby place and shape a stay across Brianza, the Adda, the lake and the mountains.

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