{"id":37619,"date":"2024-03-08T15:40:44","date_gmt":"2024-03-08T14:40:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/niet-gecategoriseerd\/lake-como-the-most-beautiful-spots-quiet-villages-and-hiking-trails\/"},"modified":"2026-07-06T21:57:13","modified_gmt":"2026-07-06T19:57:13","slug":"lake-como-the-most-beautiful-spots-quiet-villages-and-hiking-trails","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/italy\/lake-como\/lake-como-the-most-beautiful-spots-quiet-villages-and-hiking-trails\/","title":{"rendered":"Lake Como: the most beautiful spots, quiet villages, and hiking trails"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Most Beautiful Spots on Lake Como: Nature, Villages, and Hiking Trails Away from the Crowds<\/h1>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beautiful Lake Como in northern Italy is known for its many stately villas and colorful villages. But the lake also offers stunning nature, peaceful spots, shaded forest trails, and dark-sky nights in the mountain valleys. What don\u2019t you want to miss at Lake Como? We\u2019ve compiled the highlights, including lesser-known villages and the most beautiful hiking areas. Read more here and check out our Insider tips.      <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The towns surrounding the lake are just as beautiful as the lake itself. Colorful historic villages with the most beautiful villas. Unfortunately, the towns around the lake can get crowded, especially during the summer season. Read on to find out which spots you won\u2019t want to miss.     <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"6779\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/guillermo-bresciano-5QJpGEf1f2Q-unsplash-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Brunate - lake view\" class=\"wp-image-6779\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/guillermo-bresciano-5QJpGEf1f2Q-unsplash-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/guillermo-bresciano-5QJpGEf1f2Q-unsplash-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6875\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/shutterstock_1866916114-2-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Brunate - cable car\" class=\"wp-image-6875\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/shutterstock_1866916114-2-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/shutterstock_1866916114-2-1-480x720.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 683px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kabelbaan-brunate\">Best Viewpoint: Brunate &amp; the Cable Car from Como<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cable car connects Como with Brunate. In about 7 minutes, you\u2019ll be about 500 m higher. Up at \u201cthe balcony,\u201d you\u2019ll have a view of Como, the lake, and\u2014on a clear day\u2014the Alps, including Monviso and <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/italy\/valle-daosta\/aosta-valley-nature-and-culture\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"473\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Monte Rosa<\/strong><\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tip: Take the cable car up and hike (part of the way) back to Como along mountain trails. For example, via the Strada Regia. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.funicolarecomo.it\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.funicolarecomo.it\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>cable car <\/strong><\/a>is open almost every day.    <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quiet villages on Lake Como<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to avoid the crowds in Bellagio and Varenna:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Faggeto Lario (Riva, Molina, Lemna, Palanzo). In the Triangolo Lariano (the triangle between Como and Lecco) lie four villages, connected since the Middle Ages by the Strada Regia. This is my favorite area for peace and quiet, shady beech forests, and ancient villages. It offers surprising natural beauty and scenery, including archaeological sites from Roman times.   <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Laglio \u2013 Torriggia: best known for George Clooney, but the hills behind it are even more interesting, featuring, among other things, the <em>Buco dell&#8217;Orso<\/em> cave (a cave with an underground lake; guided tours available) and <em>Monte Colmegnone<\/em>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ossuccio: views of Isola Comacina and access to the Sacro Monte (UNESCO).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Peace-and-quiet hack: take the trails up into the hills\u2014it gets quieter right away.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tip: Behind Laglio lie beautiful hills and vineyards, and even higher up you&#8217;ll find Monte Colmegnone, which offers wonderful walking trails and hikes.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Things to do: hike from Brunate to Bellagio (in sections), Molina Flower Festival (May).  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accommodations: small-scale stays in Molina or Lemna; book direct with the host.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The flower festival in Molina takes place in May.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Accommodation tip<\/strong>: Villa Le Ortensie in Molina. A cozy, small-scale retreat surrounded by nature. <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/nature-stay\/bb-villa-le-ortensie\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/accommodaties-italie\/villa-le-ortensie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Villa Le Ortensie<\/strong><\/a> is a beautiful, authentic villa in Molina on the southeastern shore of Lake Como. It features six rooms in a welcoming setting and natural surroundings with hiking trails right outside the door. Ideal for those seeking peace and quiet and nature lovers.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Book direct: contact the host directly (transparent pricing, local tips).  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Click here to see all our special <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/nature-stay\/nature-stay-in-italy\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/nature-stay\/nature-stay-in-italy\/\"><strong>accommodations in Italy<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-5 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"6842\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lake-terrace-full-view-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Villa Le Ortensie - Lake Como - view - terrace\" class=\"wp-image-6842\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lake-terrace-full-view-1-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lake-terrace-full-view-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"6834\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Cabino-spritz-view-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Villa Le Ortensie - Lake Como - Aperol Spritz\" class=\"wp-image-6834\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Cabino-spritz-view-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Cabino-spritz-view-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6838\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Entrance-villa-1-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Villa Le Ortensie - Lake Como - Villa Entrance\" class=\"wp-image-6838\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"6820\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/SD_Este-panel-bed-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Villa Le Ortensie Bed - Este Room - Panel Wall\" class=\"wp-image-6820\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/SD_Este-panel-bed-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/SD_Este-panel-bed-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"6835\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lake-terrace-full-view-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Villa Le Ortensie - lake Como - lake view\" class=\"wp-image-6835\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lake-terrace-full-view-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lake-terrace-full-view-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Villas and Gardens: Historic Splendor Amid the Greenery<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Villa del Balbianello (Lenno): a movie set and dream location, with sculpture gardens and views of the lake. Accessible only with a guide or by boat. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.villacarlotta.it\/en\/garden\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.villacarlotta.it\/en\/garden\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Villa Carlotta<\/a><\/strong> (Tremezzo): botanical garden with centuries-old trees, a rose garden, and citrus tunnels. Open daily. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Villa Melzi (Bellagio): An English garden along the shore with exotic plants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6792\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/villa-del-balbianello-7509904_1920-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Villa del Balbianello\" class=\"wp-image-6792\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6791\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/shutterstock_2344589545-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Orrido di Bellano\" class=\"wp-image-6791\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"wandelroutes\">The Most Beautiful Hiking Trails Around Lake Como (with Public Transportation to and from)  <\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2022 <strong>Sentiero del Viandante<\/strong> <strong>(Lecco\u2013Colico, east coast)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A 49-km historical route along the eastern shore of Lake Como. Hike in stages: <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Varenna &#8211; Bellano (1.5\u20132 hours): woods, orchards, steep sections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Varenna &#8211; Dervio (approx. 10 km): views of Castello di Vezio and Roman rock tombs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Public Transportation Tip: Take the train between the villages to get on or off along the way.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2022 <strong>Strada Regia<\/strong> <strong>(Como\u2013Bellagio, west side)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A medieval trail through beech forests and small villages between Como and Bellagio.<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Well-signposted<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perfect for spring or fall<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting Started Tip: Take the cable car to Brunate and hike toward Torno or Lemna.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2022 <strong>Monte Colmegnone (behind Laglio)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A challenging day hike with panoramic views. Start from Laglio or the villages higher up. <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Must-See Towns on Lake Como (and How to Avoid the Crowds)<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cernobbio<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elegant, but touristy. Beautiful promenade, Villa d\u2019Este, and access to a challenging hike up Monte Bisbino. <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Travel Tip: Spend the Night in the Hinterland<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take an early walk along the promenade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public transportation tip: Take the train to Como S. Giovanni. Then take the bus to Cernobbio.   <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Villa d\u2019Este is a beautiful 16th-century villa\u2014now a luxury hotel\u2014with a stunning garden and views of the lake.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6795\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/ovidiu-g7ohjsFJv5M-unsplash-1-1-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Varenna - view of the lake from the villa\" class=\"wp-image-6795\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6784\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/lake-1587245_1920-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Varenna - Lovers&#039; Promenade\" class=\"wp-image-6784\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"731\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6787\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/lamp-7723358_1920-731x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Varenna - lamppost\" class=\"wp-image-6787\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Varenna<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Colorful, romantic, and centrally located. Unfortunately, that also means it\u2019s busier. Visit Villa Monastero and take a stroll along the \u201cPasseggiata degli Innamorati\u201d (a 500-meter boardwalk along the lake). It\u2019s spectacular at sunset and even more romantic.   <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tip: Combine this with a section of the Sentiero del Viandante.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How to get there: train from Milan to Varenna-Esino and ferry.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public transportation tip: Direct train from Milan to Varenna-Esino; ferries to Bellagio\/Menaggio.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Historic center with narrow alleys<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Cipressi Villas (now a hotel\/restaurant) and the Monastero (botanical garden).  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6783\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/italy-7115201_1920-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Varenna - path to the lake\" class=\"wp-image-6783\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6789\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/oscar-se-balade-nMxJp9R5Oq4-unsplash-2-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Bellagio - bench\" class=\"wp-image-6789\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6786\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/lake-como-2673687_1920-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - shore\" class=\"wp-image-6786\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>TIP:<\/strong> Varenna is easily accessible from Bellagio and the other towns along the lake by ferry, as well as from Milan via direct trains.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bellagio<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Picturesque and charming, situated at the fork of the lake. Crowded during peak season. Bellagio lies at the tip of the promontory that divides the lake into two branches. Here, too, the wealthy Lombard nobility had the most beautiful villas built between the 18th and 19th centuries.     <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Things to Do: Visit Villa Melzi, Villa Serbelloni Park (guided tour).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tip for a good night&#8217;s sleep: go to bed early or stay just outside the city center.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Things to Do: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.giardinidivillamelzi.it\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.giardinidivillamelzi.it\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Villa Melzi<\/a><\/strong> (English Garden), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bellagiolakecomo.com\/en\/bellagio-lake-como-italy\/poi-points-of-interest\/villa-serbelloni-garden\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.bellagiolakecomo.com\/en\/bellagio-lake-como-italy\/poi-points-of-interest\/villa-serbelloni-garden\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Villa Serbelloni Park<\/strong> <\/a>(guided tours only; check times).  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public transportation tip: Take the ferry from Varenna\/Menaggio.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rent a bike or take a guided bike tour in Bellagio.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rest hack: Go early (8:30\u201310:30) or later in the day; sleep outside the city center.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tremezzina &amp; Isola Comacina<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Across from Bellagio: Lenno, Ossuccio, Mezzegra, and Tremezzo.<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Visit: Villa del Balbianello &amp; Isola Comacina (a small green island).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How to get there: ferry from Bellagio, bus from Menaggio (10 minutes).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Things to Do: Isola Comacina, a green island featuring archaeological sites, small churches, and summer residences of Italian and foreign artists. Guided walking tour (fee required) (note <a href=\"https:\/\/isola-comacina.it\/en\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/isola-comacina.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>ferry services<\/strong><\/a>).   <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Highlight: Villa del Balbianello on the Lavedo Peninsula near the village of Lenno, with beautiful gardens and panoramic views.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Practical information: ferry from Bellagio; bus from Menaggio.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"642\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6785\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/lake-3185101_1920-642x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - houses on the north side facing the mountain\" class=\"wp-image-6785\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" data-id=\"6781\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/lewis-j-goetz-ZAPIBe5pbx0-unsplash-1024x680.jpg\" alt=\"Lake Como - Villa Balbianello - Lenno\" class=\"wp-image-6781\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/lewis-j-goetz-ZAPIBe5pbx0-unsplash-980x651.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/lewis-j-goetz-ZAPIBe5pbx0-unsplash-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Swimming &amp; Water Sports on Lake Como<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can swim in Lake Como at various rocky and pebble beaches. The water is deep and cool, so stay close to the shore. <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Water shoes recommended<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Things to Do: Rent a kayak, SUP, or e-foil from local providers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Safety tip: Wear a high-visibility swim buoy and avoid the channel.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mountains, forests, and sacred mountains<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sacro Monte di Ossuccio: A UNESCO pilgrimage route overlooking the lake<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Triangolo Lariano: Over 500 km of hiking trails up to an altitude of 1,600 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/hiking-tours\/valle-brembana-a-beautiful-mountainous-region-near-bergamo\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6451\"><strong>Brembana Valley<\/strong><\/a> (a little further on): mountain valleys and ancient mountain villages<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Practical &amp; Sustainable Travel on Lake Como<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Without a car: train to Como, Varenna-Esino, or Lecco + ferries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Best time to visit: April\u2013June &amp; September\u2013October<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bike Rental <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeitbellagio.com\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.bikeitbellagio.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>(e-)bike in<\/strong> <strong>Bellagio<\/strong><\/a>; check routes and service points in advance. From e-bikes to road bikes and mountain bikes. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid: July\u2013August, or plan your visit early in the day or later in the day<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sustainable: book direct, don&#8217;t leave any trash behind, stay on the trails<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Waterfalls &amp; Gorges of Lake Como<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Orrido di Bellano: a spectacular gorge trail along the Pioverna River with footbridges leading to the waterfall (approx. 20-minute hike).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Orrido di Nesso: a gorge and waterfall near the Ponte della Civera; most beautiful in the morning light. The gorge can also be seen from Piazza Castello. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Organized Walking Tour of Lake Como and the Lugano Area<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you interested in an organized hiking tour that connects Lake Como and Lake Lugano? Then take a look at this <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/italy\/lake-como\/hiking-around-lake-como-and-lake-lugano-8-day-trip\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/italie\/comomeer\/wandelen-comomeer-lugano\/\">8-day hiking tour of Lake Como and Lake Lugano<\/a><\/strong>. You can book direct with the local specialist. Accommodations, transfers, and luggage transport are included.   <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Map of Lake Como  <\/h2>\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1igvX8aLf2rmxbgbKVCw3uIeEenqcOwE&#038;ehbc=2E312F&#038;noprof=1\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Looking for more inspiration?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check out our tips for:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/italy\/lake-garda\/the-most-beautiful-spots-on-lake-garda\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/italie\/gardameer\/mooiste-plekjes-gardameer\/\">The Most Beautiful Places on Lake Garda<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/nature-stay\/nature-stay-in-italy\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/nature-stay\/nature-stay-in-italy\/\">Unique Places to Stay in Italy<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/italy\/piedmont\/valle-maira-an-unspoiled-mountain-region-in-piedmont\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"13835\">Hiking in the Italian Alps<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Most Beautiful Spots on Lake Como: Nature, Villages, and Hiking Trails Away from the Crowds The beautiful Lake Como in northern Italy is known for its many stately villas and colorful villages. But the lake also offers stunning nature, peaceful spots, shaded forest trails, and dark-sky nights in the mountain valleys. What don\u2019t you [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":34631,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[294,292,222,191],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-37619","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lake-como","category-lombardy","category-italy","category-hiking-tours"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37619","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37619"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37619\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":39727,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37619\/revisions\/39727"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34631"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37619"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37619"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37619"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}