The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lago di Como

Embark on the Lake Como Greenway, a moderate hike that guides you along the western shore of Lake Como. This 6.8-mile (11.0 km) route, with an elevation gain of 646 feet (197 metres), offers a delightful journey through charming villages like Colonno and Ossuccio. You will experience diverse scenery, from ancient hamlets and historic villas to beautiful gardens, all while enjoying splendid views of the lake's emerald waters and the surrounding dramatic mountains. Expect to complete this scenic walk in about 3 hours and 2 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Greenway is generally considered an easy hike suitable for most fitness levels. You can easily access different sections of the route using the C10 bus service or local ferries, which provides flexibility if you wish to shorten or extend your walk. Parking is also available in the various villages you will pass through along the way. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to enjoy the tranquility and avoid peak crowds.

The Lake Como Greenway is notable for its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, showcasing the rich history of the region. As you follow the path, you will encounter sections right along the shoreline and others on hills above the lake, offering varied perspectives of this iconic Italian landscape. You even have the option to detour and visit the magnificent Villa del Balbianello, adding a touch of grandeur to your outdoor adventure.

Embark on a moderate hike around Bellagio, exploring the historic Gardens of Villa Melzi and panoramic viewpoints. This loop tour covers 6.1 miles (9.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1481 feet (452 metres), taking about 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. You will walk on varied terrain, including well-maintained paths within the gardens, gravel sections, paved roads, and natural trails through mixed forests, offering a diverse experience from serene botanical beauty to stunning lake vistas.

This trail is easily accessible from Bellagio's town center, making it a convenient option for many visitors. The paths within the Villa Melzi gardens are particularly easy to navigate, while the broader loop requires good fitness but is suitable for most skill levels. You will find sections with steps and paths leading through charming, less-known hamlets like San Giovanni, Vergonese, and Mulini del Perlo, adding to the local charm of your journey.

The Gardens of Villa Melzi are a true highlight, renowned for their neoclassical design and rich history, commissioned by Francesco Melzi d'Eril. As you wander through, you will discover a long avenue of plane trees, a tranquil Japanese pond, and a charming Moorish temple. Beyond the gardens, the route offers continuous panoramic views of Lake Como, the Tremezzo mountains, and the mountains surrounding Lecco, providing a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural splendor.

The Wayfarer's Path from Lierna to Varenna presents a challenging hiking experience with continuous, sweeping views over Lake Como. You will traverse ancient mule tracks and wooded sections, winding through chestnut forests and charming stone villages. This difficult route covers 10.2 miles (16.5 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 3020 feet (921 metres). Plan for approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes to complete the journey, enjoying the diverse landscapes. As you near Varenna, keep an eye out for the iconic Castello di Vezio, a prominent landmark overlooking the lake.

Accessing this section of the Wayfarer's Path is straightforward, thanks to the railway line that runs along Lake Como's eastern shore. This makes it easy to reach the starting point in Lierna and return from Varenna by train once you finish your hike. The convenience of public transport allows you to focus on the trail without worrying about car logistics. Consider starting early to make the most of the daylight, especially given the route's duration.

This segment of the historic Wayfarer's Path offers a unique perspective on Lake Como, showcasing its natural beauty and ancient pathways. Beyond the physical challenge, you will discover the rich history embedded in the trail's design, connecting various communities along the lake. The route provides a rewarding experience, culminating in the picturesque town of Varenna, known for its charming streets and lakeside allure. Don't miss the magnificent vista from the Eremo Gaudio Terrace as you approach the end.

Embark on The three peaks of Monte Barro and Monte San Michele loop tour, a difficult hike spanning 5.7 miles (9.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2323 feet (708 metres). This challenging route typically takes 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete, leading you through varied terrain of mixed earth, rock, and steep grassy slopes. You will traverse lush woods, open meadows, and rocky areas, requiring sure-footedness and sturdy shoes for some technical sections. The reward is spectacular scenery, including panoramic views of several lakes like Garlate and Lake Como, as well as distant mountains such as Resegone. Make sure to visit the Monte Barro Summit for a full 360-degree panorama. You can also enjoy views from the Alpini Memorial at Pian Sciresa and the Sasso della Vecchia Viewpoint. This route offers some of the most incredible views in Lombardy.

This loop is classified as a hard hike, requiring good fitness, sure-footedness, and some alpine experience. Certain sections may require you to use your hands for balance, particularly on steep ascents. If you are less experienced, consider alternative paths around some peaks to avoid the most technical parts. The trail is accessible for different skill levels, but this specific loop is demanding.

Monte Barro is recognized for its high biodiversity, making the area a Site of Community Importance due to its unique flora on limestone cliffs and meadows. Beyond the natural beauty, the trail offers cultural insights with points of interest like the unfinished 17th-century Sanctuary of San Michele. The region also features an Archaeological Park and an Ethnographic Museum, highlighting its rich history. On clear days, you might even catch glimpses of Milan from the higher viewpoints.