The Chestnut Trail from Stresa to Belgirate: mule tracks, chestnuts and Lake Maggiore

In October the chestnut woods above Stresa are full of open husks and the paved mule tracks that once linked the lake villages become a carpet of leaves. The Chestnut Trail follows them all, from Stresa to Belgirate, halfway up the slope above Lake Maggiore.

The route

From Stresa we climb to the hamlet of Vedasco and take the mule track through chestnut woods and old terraces. We pass the little church of Passera and continue almost level, the lake always in view and the Borromean Islands below.

We reach Belgirate for lunch, with the old Romanesque church above the village. Back to Stresa by boat or bus, depending on timetables.

Who it's for

• anyone after an easy autumn walk with chestnuts and lake
• families with children and dog owners
• anyone who likes to finish at a table by the lake

Good to know

Wet leaves on stone are slippery: shoes with good soles. Boat or bus ticket for the return not included. Packed lunch or a trattoria in Belgirate.

Getting there

Stresa is an hour and five from Milan on the A26, Carpugnino exit, and an hour by train from Milano Centrale. Paid parking in town. The return from Belgirate is by boat or local bus, ticket not included.