The scenic traverse of Monte Barro

A beautiful guided hike that starts from the center of Lecco and takes us to discover Monte Barro, one of the most surprising mountains in the Lecco area. Leaving the city behind, we gradually ascend the slopes of the mountain, immersing ourselves in shady beech woods and crossing high-altitude meadows rich in flowers and open views. The route develops just below the summit, allowing us to enjoy spectacular views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains without facing overly challenging sections. The highest point of the excursion is the Sasso della Vecchia, a suggestive and panoramic place, ideal for a stop and to observe the landscape. During the walk, we will have the opportunity to learn about the extraordinary natural variety of Monte Barro, which, not surprisingly, is a Regional Park: an environment rich in biodiversity, where very different plant and animal species coexist. The itinerary also offers interesting historical testimonies: along the way, we may encounter ancient structures from the Gothic period and the remains of an unfinished church, silent signs of the past that enrich the walking experience. The excursion ends in Sala al Barro, from where we will comfortably return to Lecco by train, closing a full day among nature, history and landscape.

The experience

A beautiful guided hike that starts from the center of Lecco and takes us to discover Monte Barro, one of the most surprising mountains in the Lecco area. Leaving the city behind, we gradually ascend the slopes of the mountain, immersing ourselves in shady beech woods and crossing high-altitude meadows rich in flowers and open views. The route develops just below the summit, allowing us to enjoy spectacular views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains without facing overly challenging sections. The highest point of the excursion is the Sasso della Vecchia, a suggestive and panoramic place, ideal for a stop and to observe the landscape. During the walk, we will have the opportunity to learn about the extraordinary natural variety of Monte Barro, which, not surprisingly, is a Regional Park: an environment rich in biodiversity, where very different plant and animal species coexist. The itinerary also offers interesting historical testimonies: along the way, we may encounter ancient structures from the Gothic period and the remains of an unfinished church, silent signs of the past that enrich the walking experience. The excursion ends in Sala al Barro, from where we will comfortably return to Lecco by train, closing a full day among nature, history and landscape.

How hard is it, really

What's included in the price

Itinerary

One day, approximate times. The final details come in the group chat.

Day

10 km · D+ 540 m · 7 h

The stops · 10 km

Meeting point 9:30approximate

Piazza Stazione, 23900 Lecco provincia di Lecco, Italia. The exact time is confirmed in the group chat. We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.

HOW TO GET THERE

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09:30PARKING

Start and walk to Pian Sciresa

We'll meet in front of the train station in Lecco. We recommend purchasing your return ticket from Sala al Barro to Lecco in advance. Parking is available on the streets surrounding the Lecco train station or in the La Meridiana shopping center parking lot. We'll walk through the entire city center and along the lakefront, heading towards the park entrance beyond the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge). We'll pass through San Michele and see its unfinished church before heading uphill again towards Pian Sciresa and its panoramic terrace with views of Lecco and the lake.

11:00VIEWPOINT

Pian Sciresa and the Hermitage

Having reached Pian Sciresa after a steep but short climb, we'll have the chance to relax for a few minutes on the panoramic terrace overlooking Lecco. We then set off towards Sasso della Vecchia and the Hermitage of Monte Barro. After a climb and a steep staircase through the woods, we arrive at one of the highest points of the hike: Sasso della Vecchia, just below the summit. The view is, once again, breathtaking. We continue on a narrow path, requiring a sure foot, towards the Faee valley (beech trees). The landscape changes, becoming more humid and shady. In spring and summer, we can admire a wide variety of flowers. After an easy, scenic winding trail, we finally reach the Hermitage of Monte Barro and the terrace overlooking the Brianza lakes.

13:00FOOD STOP

The Hermitage and arrival at Sala al Barro station

Around lunchtime (approximately 1:00 PM), we'll reach the Hermitage of Monte Barro, where you'll find a bar/restaurant. We'll enjoy a packed lunch on the panoramic terrace, boasting magnificent views of the Brianza lakes. After about an hour for lunch, we'll begin our descent towards Sala al Barro. The descent is easygoing, with no difficult sections. We'll pass through charming villages, vineyards, and ancient Gothic ruins. We anticipate arriving in Sala al Barro and at the train station around 4:00 PM. We'll catch a short train ride back to Lecco. The tour concludes in Sala al Barro at 4:00 PM.

What to bring

A list made for this hike. No technical gear: just good shoes and a well-packed backpack.

Questions?