The Como-Bellagio crossing is an epic route along a ridge that was already known in prehistoric times. Strategic for the wayfarer of yesteryear and now indispensable for those who want to enjoy the best views of the entire area and for those who like to get around on foot. Step by step we discover all the beauty between the capital of Lake Como and the world-famous resort of Bellagio. The initial ascent by funicular railway and the return trip by boat complete the experience, letting you fully enter theunique atmosphere of our lake. You will want to return to explore more of these places, which combine Mediterranean vegetation with distant snow-capped peaks, romantic luxury hotels and rural villages linked to the activities of the past.
Physical Commitment
Technical difficulty
There are no particular technical difficulties, a certain level of fitness is necessary given the length of the route
Distance: First day: 16 km / Second day: 21 km. Total: 37 km
Height difference: First day:+ 830 / Second day: ascent + 520m descent -1,600m). Total:+1,350m
Time: 2 days of walking at a leisurely pace.
Day One
From Como we ascend to Brunate (715 metres above sea level) with the funicular railway that existed at the end of the 19th century. We then take a comfortable mule track along a string of refreshments built here to accommodate city hikers after World War II. We then move into the shade on the northern slope and cross the cool and atmospheric Beech Trail with its centuries-old trees. At the next mouth of Lemna, the path becomes a mule track again, and leads us with an even gradient to our accommodation for the evening: Rifugio Riella (1,275 metres above sea level) . We deposit our rucksacks and relax, while those who wish can ascend to the summit of Mount Palanzone (1,436 metres above sea level). The view spans 360°: the Lario, the mountains of the Larian Triangle, the small lakes of glacial origin that close the Brianza region to the north, and Milan in the background. This was followed by a rustic and abundant dinner (polenta, braised meat, cheese, wine, etc) accompanied by chatter and laughter, until it was time to go up to the dormitory for a well-deserved restful sleep.
Day Two
After a good breakfast, we continue on a mule track from the refuge. With a series of gentle ups and downs, we cross a karstic area full of caves reserved for speleologists . We then arrive at the astronomical observatories at Colma di Sormano. Here we cross the provincial road for a few metres and there is a bar for those who would like a coffee or a slice of cake. Back on the mule track we climb first to Alpe Spessola and then Alpe di Terrabiotta (1536 m a.s.l.), historic summer pastures still in use today . A sublime panorama of Bellagio over the three branches of Lake Como opens up at the pass above. To the west we have the long ridge of Monte San Primo (1672 mslm) we are at the highest point of our route. From here begins the long and varied descent to Bellagio. The Monte San Primo park with its now disused ski lifts and the beautiful little houses of the alpe delle ville. Then the trail approaches the slopes of Monte Nuvolone (1085 metres above sea level) inhabited by mouflons. We then encounter the more unknown hamlets of Bellagio, Perlo mills, Brogno and then Guggiate and San Giovanni (first parish church). We are now in sight of the luxurious and exclusive period villas near the shores, and if the weather and time permit we also put our feet in the water for a healthy refreshment. And now we stop walking, now we sail calmly towards Como, admiring the beauty of the mountains and shores from the lake. And if the bar on the boat is running… a spritz or a glass of prosecco are a must before saying goodbye.
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COST: € 140.
Departure from Como Saturday morning 9 a.m., return to Como Sunday evening 8.30 p.m. approx.
INCLUDED IN THE COST: Accompanied Environmental Hiking Guide, dinner, overnight stay in a dormitory of 6 and breakfast at rifugio Riella. Como/Brunate funicular railway ticket, Bellagio/Como boat ticket
NOT INCLUDED: packed lunches on Saturday and Sunday, any extras, anything not indicated in “included in the price”. For Sunday’s packed lunch, sandwiches can be requested at the Riella refuge.
WHAT TO BRING: Trekking shoes, layered clothing suitable for rain/wind, non-essential but useful walking sticks, sun cream, hat, full water bottle, a baby wipe, sleeping bag, power bank to recharge mobile phone if necessary, sandals/slippers to use in the hut. We would like to remind you that the accommodation is in a dormitory at a mountain refuge, not a hotel, however do not hesitate to contact us for any special requirements or clarifications.
TO BOOK CONTACT ME Leo 3773074350 – Leolovati67@gmail.com or join the following Whatsapp group
WARNING!
Reservation confirmed following transfer of deposit of 40 € stating: Name, Surname and dates of the excursion. IBAN IT55I0760110900001023248816 BancoPosta account made out to Lovati Leonardo
IMPORTANT: the deposit is non-refundable and in case of cancellation after 25 April you will still have to pay the full fee.
