Escape the crowds and chaos and discover a more authentic side to Lake Como: on the lake’s western branch, the Lake Como Greenway is an easy and scenic walk through quaint old villages, beautiful villas and gardens, historic churches, all while admiring breathtaking views over the lake and the mountains that surround it.
The itinerary, which starts at Colonno and ends at Griante, covers approximately 11 km (7 miles), taking about 3.5 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. If that seems too long, you can choose to walk just a portion of it as many of the villages it passes are served by the local ferries; or, if you have hired a private driver through us, you can simply have your driver pick you up along the route.
It is easy to follow the path thanks to frequent signage that includes blue and yellow signs as well as round metal markers in the cobbled ground. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
The mostly flat route can be walked all year round and it is particularly fascinating in the low season when the only people you meet along the way are the locals going about their daily lives.
Some of our favorite highlights of the Lake Como Greenway include:
-The view over Isola Comacina: a small, wooded island close to the shore of the lake in front of a gulf known as Zoca de l’oli, a Lombard name referring to the local, small-scale production of olive oil.
–Sacro Monte di Ossuccio: this requires a short detour from the Greenway. A UNESCO World Heritage Site along with nine other such sacred sites in Northern Italy, the Sacro Monte di Ossuccio features 14 chapels built between 1635-1710 with terracotta life-size figurines depicting the passion of Christ. Take the pathway up the hill and be rewarded with a wonderful view of the lake and the Alps.
–Villa Balbianello: the former residence of explorer Guido Monzino, who turned the interiors into a sort of house-museum, where he kept his art collection and memorabilia from his mountaineering and polar expeditions. The villa’s perfectly manicured gardens and position on the tip of the promontory will take your breath away. Ask us about visiting Villa Balbianello with a private guide.
-The lakeside town of Lenno: it not only boasts a lakeside promenade overlooking the so-called Venus Gulf with gorgeous views on the mountains, but also restaurants and cafés, the ideal place to stop for a break.
–Villa Carlotta: built at the end of the 17th century by the marquises Clerici of Milan, it displays artworks by sculptors such as Antonio Canova and painters such as Francesco Hayez, as well as furniture pieces of previous owners. The main attraction is the botanical garden, which is at its best in spring.
There are different ways you can plan your day out on the Greenway. Contact us today to speak with a travel advisor and start planning your Lake Como getaway!
-Silvia Donati