The Lake Como Greenway, also known as the Greenway of Lario, is a pedestrian route that stretches along the western shore of the lake for about 10 kilometres. In addition to the marvellous views, the path allows you to discover ancient villages, historic villas with their gardens, and churches that tell centuries of art history. Here is everything you need to know about hiking along the Lake Como Greenway.
Lake Como Greenway Map: where does it pass through?
The Greenway of Lake Como winds through breathtaking landscapes and locations rich in history and culture. Specifically, the route is divided into 7 stages, which can be covered in one or more days. The destinations to mark on the map are:
- Colonno – Sala Comacina: Starting from the village of Colonno, visiting the centre and passing along the Antica Via Regina.
- Sala Comacina – Ossuccio: This stage allows you to see the centre of Sala Comacina and the Church of San Bartolomeo.
- Ossuccio – Lenno: You will visit the village of Ossuccio, an ancient Romanesque church, and the village of Spurano.
- Lenno – Mezzegra: You finally arrive at Lenno, a village known for its beautiful lakeside promenade and historic villas.
- Mezzegra – Tremezzo: Despite this stage including some climbs, you will pass through the typical villages of Mezzagra and Bonzanigo.
- Tremezzo – Griante: The walk continues with suggestive views, including those offered by the Teresio Olivelli park. From here, you can proceed to other characteristic villages.
- Griante – Menaggio: The final stage leads to the end of the route, from where you can move towards other towns on Lake Como thanks to the navigation service.
What to see along the Greenway
The best approach would be to dedicate several days to the Greenway for the simple reason that each stage is packed with sights to see. Staying each day in a different village will help you enjoy an active holiday while also allowing you to relax and savour the atmosphere of each location:
- Ancient Villages: Such as Colonno, with its narrow lanes and stone houses.
- Historic Villas and Their Gardens: Like Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, famous for its art collections and botanical gardens.
- Romanesque and Baroque Churches: Set in enchanting natural landscapes, such as the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena in Ossuccio with its distinctive bell tower.
- Sacro Monte di Ossuccio: Comprising fourteen chapels and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003.
- Villa del Balbianello in Lenno: A dream location that has served as a backdrop for numerous film productions.
- Isola Comacina: Accessible by ferry from Sala Comacina.
For more information on the top towns and where to visit in Lake Como, check out our guide.
How to Get to the Starting Point of the Route
Before immersing yourself in the beauty of the Greenway of Lake Como, it’s essential to know how to reach the starting point in Colonno. Whether you choose to travel by car, bus, or train, there are various options available. At the end of the route, you can return by public bus.
- By Car: Reaching Colonno by car is simple. You need to take the Strada Statale 340, which runs along the lake. You will find parking near the starting point of the route or along the road where it is permitted.
- By Train: If you arrive by train, the nearest station is in Como. From there, you can take a bus that will bring you to Colonno or opt for a taxi.
- By Boat: You can get here from Como, Colico, or Menaggio with direct navigation services.
Living in Colonno, Lake Como
Colonno is a place to admire at all hours and in all seasons, in addition to being the starting point of the wonderful Greenway. Its temperate climate and proximity to the lake make it the perfect place to move to or simply spend a few days on holiday before or after the trail. With idealista, you can discover the secrets of this village and choose the house that best suits your interests:
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