Self-Guided
Lake Como Hiking Tour
Lake Como is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. Romantic waterfront views, scenic mountain vistas, and elegant lakeside villages have attracted visitors since Roman times. Less known are the myriad of footpaths surrounding the lake. The hills and mountains around the lake are traversed by miles of ancient trails that carried generations of peasants, traders, and smugglers. With different levels of difficulty, accessibility, and beauty, choosing the right hike can be daunting. This tour takes the guesswork out and allows you to maximize your vacation time. Follow our detailed route notes into a national park past a cascading river and mountain gorge. Choose a coastal path that meanders through ancient villages just far enough above the lake to offer tranquility and fine views. Hike through a mountain meadow with breathtaking views high above the lake. We offer multiple hikes so you can choose the sights that interest you most. For those with a love of nature and a free spirit, this is the way to savor the timeless charms of the lake.
​Highlights
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Lake and mountain views
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Varenna castle
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Villa Carlotta estate and gardens
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Lakeside pebble beaches
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Quiet scenic footpaths
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Romantic lakeside villages of Varenna, Menaggio and Como
Price
US$ 950 per person, double occupancy
Dates
Any date, Mar 1 to Dec 1
Single Supplement
+ US$ 250 for single room occupancy
Length
6 Days, 5 Nights
Start / Finish
Varenna / Como
Route Rating
Moderate: 2-7 miles (3-11 km) per day of hiking with some steep ascents/descents.
Terms and Conditions >
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 and 2: Varenna
Travel to Varenna on your own. Direct trains connect Milan and Varenna (10 per day, 1 hour travel time). Check into your hotel and have lunch. Hike to Varenna's hilltop castle. Cross a drawbridge and climb the castle's tower for sweeping lake and mountain views. On Day 2 take a train to Bellano and hike back to Varenna. The hike follows historic mule paths high above the lake shore.
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Day 3 and 4: Menaggio
Ferry from Varenna to Menaggio (13 per day, 15 minute travel time). Choose among three hikes over two days. One hike leads to a natural park rich in flora, fauna, and antique rural settlements. A mountain stream leads past ancient mills to a steep canyon. A second hike follows a road built by the Romans to connect Como with the alpine passes. Stroll through pastel colored villages with sweeping lake views. The hike ends in Rezzonico, a town with a castle, a medieval center, and an inviting beach. A third hike takes you half way up a mountain for breathtaking lake and alpine views. This hike ends at the Villa Carlotta, a dazzling 18th Century waterfront villa. Explore the villa's exquisite gardens and wander its grand halls.
Day 5 and 6: Como
Ferry from Menaggio to Como. Ride a cable car high above the lake to the village of Brunate. A remote path through verdant hills leads downhill to Torno. Catch a ferry from Torno's picturesque port back to Como. Frequent trains make for an easy departure on Day 6.
Daily Distance
Lodging
Hotel du Lac, Varenna
Varenna (2 nights)
The Hotel Du Lac is a romantic villa on the lakefront in the medieval center of Varenna. The building dates from 1823 and is quiet and comfortable.
hotel website >
Hotel du Lac, Menaggio
Menaggio (2 nights)
The Hotel du Lac is located lakeside on the town's main square. This hotel is surrounded by wonderful restaurants, cafes, and an ice cream shop.
hotel website >
Albergo del Duca
Como (1 night)
This small family-run hotel is conveniently located just a few blocks from the lake. The remodeled hotel has A/C, WIFI, and just nine rooms.
What's Included
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All lodging
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All breakfasts
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Six beautiful hikes
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Route notes and maps
Departure from Como, End of Tour
You hiking tour will end in the town of Como. There are train from Como to Milan every 1.5 hours and the train trip takes just 37 minutes.
Siena Hotel Supplement During Palio
During the Palio (Siena's horse race) hotel prices triple. A surcharge of US$ 100 per person will apply for if you stay in Siena Jun 29-30, Jul 1-2, or Aug 13-16.
What if it Rains?
On self-guided tours there is no van support. But, we do move your luggage. If it rains you can catch a ride with us when we move your bags, just call to make arrangements.
What if it Rains?
On self-guided tours there is no van support. But, we do move your luggage. If it rains you can catch a ride with us when we move your bags, just call to make arrangements.
Siena Hotel Supplement During Palio
During the Palio (Siena's horse race) hotel prices triple. A surcharge of US$ 100 per person will apply for if you stay in Siena Jun 29-30, Jul 1-2, or Aug 13-16.
What if it Rains?
On self-guided tours there is no van support. But, we do move your luggage. If it rains you can catch a ride with us when we move your bags, just call to make arrangements.
Siena Hotel Supplement During Palio
During the Palio (Siena's horse race) hotel prices triple. A surcharge of US$ 100 per person will apply for if you stay in Siena Jun 29-30, Jul 1-2, or Aug 13-16.
What if it Rains?
On self-guided tours there is no van support. But, we do move your luggage. If it rains you can catch a ride with us when we move your bags, just call to make arrangements.
Siena Hotel Supplement During Palio
During the Palio (Siena's horse race) hotel prices triple. A surcharge of US$ 100 per person will apply for if you stay in Siena Jun 29-30, Jul 1-2, or Aug 13-16.
What if it Rains?
On self-guided tours there is no van support. But, we do move your luggage. If it rains you can catch a ride with us when we move your bags, just call to make arrangements.
Great Walks of Italy
Explore Lake Como at your own pace. We provide detailed route notes, great accommodations, restaurant suggestions, and sightseeing notes. You choose the dates. We take care of the details.
Can I really start any date I want?
Yes! You can start your tour any day of the week, March 1 through December 1. We have complete flexibility with the starting dates.
Why Lake Como?
Just one hour from Milan by train, Lake Como offers spectacular hikes with lake and mountain views. This tour offers multiple hikes so you can pick and choose the trails that work best for you.