4.6
(351)
1,601
hikers
Larian Triangle Ridge Crest Trail
03:28
7.61km
580m
Hiking
Embark on the Larian Triangle Ridge Crest Trail, a moderate hike that guides you through varied scenery. You will start in tranquil woodlands, transition into open meadows, and then ascend along scenic ridgelines. The terrain becomes increasingly stony as you approach the Monte San Primo Summit, the highest point in…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.85 km
Rifugio Martina
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.19 km
Monte San Primo Summit
Highlight • Summit
From the summit you can perfectly see the branching of Lake Como which forms an …
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Tip by
3.72 km
Monte San Primo Ridge
Highlight • Trail
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Tip by
5.42 km
View of Lake Como from Bocchetta di Terrabiotta
Highlight • Viewpoint
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7.61 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.93 km
1.71 km
1.66 km
971 m
339 m
Surfaces
3.56 km
1.47 km
919 m
823 m
789 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 7 May
16°C
6°C
51 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to complete the Monte San Primo loop from Piano Rancio?
The full loop generally takes around 3 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. The tour data suggests an average duration of about 3 hours and 28 minutes.
Is the Monte San Primo loop from Piano Rancio suitable for beginners?
This hike is generally classified as moderate, making it suitable for both experienced hikers and motivated beginners. It does require good fitness and sure-footedness, especially on steeper or potentially slippery sections.
Where does the Monte San Primo loop trail start, and is parking available?
The trail starts from Piano Rancio, a small mountain hamlet located about a 20-minute drive from Bellagio. Parking is available in Piano Rancio, making it a convenient starting point.
What is the terrain like on the Monte San Primo loop?
The terrain is varied. You'll start in woodlands, then cross meadows and ridgelines. Expect grassy slopes, winding paths through trees, and sections of paved or dirt roads. Near the summit, the terrain becomes stonier with steep inclines. The descent, particularly on the north side, can be steep and potentially slippery.
What are the main viewpoints and scenic highlights on this hike?
The hike offers breathtaking panoramic views. From the Monte San Primo Summit, you'll get 360-degree vistas of Lake Como and the Alps. Other notable viewpoints include the Monte San Primo Ridge and View of Lake Como from Bocchetta di Terrabiotta, which provides a splendid perspective of Bellagio.
What is the best time of year to hike the Monte San Primo loop?
The trail is best enjoyed from spring through autumn when the weather is mild and the paths are clear. While the area is used for winter sports, hiking in winter would require specialized gear and experience due to snow and ice.
Are there any mountain huts or places to stop for refreshments on the trail?
Yes, a significant point of interest along the trail is Rifugio Martina. It's an excellent place to rest, enjoy traditional local products, and experience a warm welcome.
Does this trail connect with other hiking routes?
Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. You'll find sections that are part of the Dorsale del Triangolo Lariano per cresta, Dorsale del Triangolo Lariano, and the Sentiero Italia - Tappa D11SA, among others.
Is the Monte San Primo loop from Piano Rancio dog-friendly?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in this region. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or near the summit where the terrain can be challenging. Remember to pack out any waste.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in Parco Monte San Primo?
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required for hiking the Monte San Primo loop from Piano Rancio within Parco Monte San Primo. The trails are freely accessible to the public.
What essential gear should I bring for this hike?
Given the moderate difficulty and varied terrain, it's advisable to bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and appropriate layers of clothing. Trekking poles can also be helpful, especially on the steeper and potentially slippery sections.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
The first summit tour on Lake Como led in perfect weather to the "local mountain" in the Triangolo, Monte San Primo 🔝 The plan was, as usual, to take the second wave of ascent with you, which means to start late in order to meet as few people as possible at the summit. Unfortunately, this plan did not work 😅 Even if the view on the ascent over the old military road did not offer much variety in parts, the views shortly before the summit and at the cross were all the more spectacular. Unobstructed view over the entire Lake Como & partly as far as Milan⛪ Unfortunately, the cathedral could not be seen due to the hazy fog in the valley and the cross by far not as deserted as on my Lucky Shot🙈 So if you want to enjoy the beautiful view over the rooftops of Bellagio, you should either go very early or choose a weekday during the week😅 #thatslife #thatsitaly
Yesterday a lesson in humility, and then arrogance. We were calmly climbing up the vertical from Martina. Beautiful and cool day. We met many people on the way down and everyone was quite equipped. A guy passes us by, followed at a distance by another... the second one, to my surprise, is wearing sneakers with a smooth bottom (I think: "people are increasingly reckless!!"). And while a good dose of disgust rises, I think that in my backpack I have a pair of crampons that I don't need. I offer them to him, giving him instructions on where to leave them for me downstream. He puts them on, thanks me and continues. A few minutes pass and another guy passes me by. I notice that he too is wearing shoes with a smooth sole and I tell him that unfortunately I've run out of crampons. And while I'm about to worry and give him some advice, he answers me dryly and with no small amount of arrogance that with those shoes he would have even reached Everest... the comment died in my mouth...
First part (from Parcheggio a Monte San Primo) nice hanging stretch. The rest all on the crest and downhill.
Wonderful views, the climb to Mount San Primo from the Martina refuge is very challenging, the effort is amply rewarded by the incredible view Highly recommended
Discreet parking at the starting point. The climb in the Rifugio Martina stretch to the summit is challenging, almost entirely in the woods. As for me, much better than doing it downhill, because with an important slope it is easy to slide on the path which is often just clay, therefore crumbly. Then the return stretch is longer but without particular difficulties. Few photos for bad weather, otherwise spectacular view.
The video (subtitled in 6 languages) is here: https://youtu.be/eZhvYWwJT-0?si=Wayz4dk3MWEQOmI_
Be careful in the first part where the climb is slippery and steep, the passage on the ridge is very panoramic and easy
Beautiful ride even though I think I did it backwards. Going down towards the Martina refuge there is a lot of ice and crampons are essential.