Village of Cernobbio on Lake Como
Village of Cernobbio on Lake Como

Our Italian Lakes Hiking Tours

Walking the Italian Lakes: Glamorous beauty and authentic charm

Gracefully set among some of Italy's most picture-perfect backdrops, hiking around Lake Como is a dream. Well-known for its villas, luscious gardens and quaint villages, Como has a wilder, more natural side hidden in the limestone massifs that crown its azure waters.

Explore the Lario mountains on the Western side of Lake Como and hike on superbly panoramic footpaths until Porlezza, a few steps from the Swiss border, or climb Monte Grona for unforgettable views on three different lakes. At SloWays, we make it possible to explore the most incredible Italian Lakes hiking trails at your own pace. 

 

village on lake garda with blue sky


Head to the East coast – for a more genuine and spontaneous side of the lake, where the Wayfarer’s Path links Varenna to other lakeside villages through panoramic paths and (possibly hunted) castles.  

Our favorite Italian Lakes hiking trails

Lake Como walks


Exploring Lake Como on foot
A beautiful summer day on Lake Como

Our Lake Como hiking tours take you to this world-famous lake and its surrounding mountains. Venture from Menaggio to Porlezza along the Via Claudia, on paths perched over the lake. From high up, you'll discover one of Italy's most glamorous areas from a different perspective.

Hiking in and around Lake Como

The Wayfarer's Path


The other side of Lake Como: effortless charm, lively atmosphere
Hiking path lakeside village Varenna stunning Como Lake panorama

Head to the east coast of Lake Como for a more genuine and spontaneous side of the lake, where the Wayfarer’s Path links the village of Varenna and other lakeside villages via panoramic paths and past ancient castles.

The lesser-known shore of Lake Como – the one along the Lecco branch, as described by novelist and poet, Alessandro Manzoni – is where you can hike the Wayfarer's Path. This route uncovers lesser-known gems like Fiumelatte and the village of Corenno Plinio, all connected by hiking trails around Lake Como.

The Wayfarer's Path

What's a self-guided tour?


Seeing the magnificent lakes of Italy at your own pace
A person walks on a path near the lake

Anyone walking the Italian Lakes with sloWays will follow a self-guided tour. We handcraft your itinerary so you can get the best out of your trips, following the best trails, ancient paths, and official hikes in Lake Como and surrounding areas. We provide logistical support too. We'll book your accommodations and carry your luggage to your next destination. Check out our online FAQs page to find out more.

About our self-guided walking tours 

 

Lake Iseo and its Island


Surrounded by the vineyards of Franciacorta and incredible mountain vistas, choose Lake Iseo for a different take on hiking the Italian Lakes. Our self-guided route takes you to Monte Isola, the largest inhabited island in the European lakes, and follows the ancient Via Valeriana along the lake shores. It's one of our most unique walking escapes in Europe

Our Walking Holiday on Lake Iseo 

Highlights of our Italian Lakes walking tour

  • Breathtaking landscapes: Expect clear waters, uninterrupted by tidal currents, with majestic views of towering mountains.
  • Stylish destination: Charm and glamour meet history on Lake Como's shores, with plenty of attractions and shopping opportunities after a day hiking the Italian Lakes.
  • Tranquil adventures: Expect scenic hiking trails around Lake Como, and equally pretty views along the banks of Lecco.
  • Time to recharge: Once you've finished hiking, feel immersed in enchanting nature, panoramic views, and tranquility by the lake.

Italian Lakes Hiking: FAQs

Is the terrain challenging around Lake Como?

The Italian Lakes promise a peaceful getaway, perfect for anyone looking to recharge next to glistening, serene waters. There are plenty of mostly flat or gently rolling trails around the perimeters of these lakes.

In our Italian Lakes walking trips, you'll find a variety of easy walks along the shores but others will be a little bit more demanding. If you'd like a challenge, you can set off to explore the mountains and forests surrounding Lake Como. Just ask us and we'll build you the perfect route.

What's the best time of year for hiking the Italian Lakes?

The Italian Lakes are delightful in every season. For a walking trip on Lake Como and the smaller lakes, we recommend spring and autumn as the best seasons. These allow you to avoid the summer crowds of tourists, all while enjoying spectacular seasonal colors.

Some attractions and local businesses open in spring but close over winter, so it's worth doing your research. If you choose to travel in the winter months, we'll always make sure you stay with friendly local hosts who can provide you with home comforts – and everything else you need.

If you'd like to walk during the cooler months, hikes around the Italian Lakes make a safer option than routes at higher elevations such as hiking the Dolomites, for example.

How do I book a walking holiday in the Italian Lakes? 

If you're ready to start walking the Italian Lakes this year, we've got you. Start the process with either of the following steps:

1. Send us an email at info@sloways.eu or give us a call on (+39) 0552 340 736. When you get in touch, we'll ask for some basic information about your trip so we can provide you with an accurate quote. We might need to know the size of your group, your preferred travel dates, and any extra requests.

2. Use our online calculator to receive a provisional price for your Italian Lakes walking tour. You'll find it on each route page. If you're happy with the quote, please get in touch with our office. We can confirm your booking once we've checked availability at the best possible accommodations.

Will I stay in a hotel or B&B?

We provide accommodations in B&Bs, farmhouses, and 3-star hotels, with private rooms and bathrooms. These accommodations blend comfort with authenticity, allowing you to fully immerse in your Italian walking trip experience.

Will I be hiking the Italian Lakes with a tour guide?

All our Italian Lakes hiking packages are self-guided holidays, which means there will be no official walking group or guide. Whether you're thinking of walking solo, with your significant other, or in a small group of friends, you can set off on your adventure – with routes provided by us.

We also take care of the logistics while you're hiking the Italian Lakes, so you won't need to think about carrying a heavy bag. We book your accommodations and ensure that your luggage arrives there before you do. 

Can I go sightseeing on my Italian Lakes hiking tour?

Many of our walking holidays around the Italian Lakes focus on rural trails that lead to quaint villages and towns. We prioritize authentic experiences, so you can rest assured that each itinerary crafted by us includes cultural attractions, local delicacies, and the chance to meet local people.

If you'd like to visit key sites in the Lombardy region, like the historic 'company town' of Crespi d'Adda, you will need to arrange your travel and transfers outside of your walking tour dates. If you'd like to walk in and around some of the country's most famous cities, it's worth browsing our complete selection of Italy walking holidays.

All our Italian Lakes hiking routes

Book your self-guided Italian Lakes tour with sloWays

We're firm believers that the hiking trails near Lake Como are amongst the most beautiful in Europe.

If you're looking for a memorable experience walking with views of crystalline waters, our Italian Lakes trips could be perfectly suited.

Just a few more reasons to book include:

  • Happy customers: Our walking tours come highly recommended on Feefo, where you can find out more about the authentic adventures we offer.
  • Vacations experts: We've got over 20 years' experience in creating seamless walking tours across Europe, we'll help you to see the very best of north Italy.
  • Sustainable tours: We're proud to be Travelife Certified. and we handcraft every tour with the environment in mind.
  • Comfort first: We offer fully customizable walking holidays that combine modern hotel stays with traditional accommodation types.

Your exploration of the mountains is just a few clicks away. To get started, please get in touch today.


Wanderlust Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2023
Wanderlust
Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2023
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Touroperating
S-Cape Countryside Travels srl
Borgo Allegri 16R
50122 Firenze FI
P. IVA 05227330486

 
© 2024 SloWays. All rights reserved.
Touroperating S-Cape Countryside Travels srl Borgo Allegri 16R 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
VAT Nr 05227330486
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