Viandante and the Bellano Gorge

A hike along the Sentiero del Viandante between Varenna, Bellano, and Dervio, on the eastern shore of Lake Como. We will walk along mule tracks, woodland paths, stone villages, and uninterrupted lake views, with a special stop at the Orrido di Bellano. The route is long but not difficult, with mixed terrain including cobblestones, dirt paths, and short paved sections: it has no exposed passages, but it does require a good walking pace and care on descents and steps. Reasons to choose this hike: - wide-open views over Lake Como and the side valley - passage through the Orrido di Bellano, a truly distinctive highlight - a historic trail among churches, chapels, and small ancient hamlets - an ideal linear trek for those who love discovering the area on foot This is not about reaching a summit, but about finding the rhythm of the lake, the villages, and the paths that connect them: that is what makes the experience unique.

The experience

A hike along the Sentiero del Viandante between Varenna, Bellano, and Dervio, on the eastern shore of Lake Como. We will walk along mule tracks, woodland paths, stone villages, and uninterrupted lake views, with a special stop at the Orrido di Bellano. The route is long but not difficult, with mixed terrain including cobblestones, dirt paths, and short paved sections: it has no exposed passages, but it does require a good walking pace and care on descents and steps. Reasons to choose this hike: - wide-open views over Lake Como and the side valley - passage through the Orrido di Bellano, a truly distinctive highlight - a historic trail among churches, chapels, and small ancient hamlets - an ideal linear trek for those who love discovering the area on foot This is not about reaching a summit, but about finding the rhythm of the lake, the villages, and the paths that connect them: that is what makes the experience unique.

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

12 km · D+ 620 m · 6 h

Meeting point 9:30approximate

Start. The exact time is confirmed in the group chat. We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.

Paid parking

Park in the paid car park near Varenna-Esino-Perledo station (Piazza Aldo Moro, Perledo), the starting point of the hike

HOW TO GET THERE

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A

09:30PARKING

Start

Meet at Varenna station, where you can leave your car in the paid parking area or arrive conveniently by train. From here, our hike begins: with a gentle uphill ascent, we first leave Varenna behind us and then head into the woods.

B

12:00VIEWPOINT

Bellano Gorge

After walking through woodlands, olive groves and tiny hamlets, we arrive at the Orrido di Bellano, where the waters of the Pioverna stream have been carving through the rock for over a million years, creating dramatic gorges, whirlpools and spectacular waterfalls. A visit to the gorge is optional; admission is not included and must be paid on site. We will then enjoy a lunch break along the lakefront with beautiful views.

C

15:30RETURN

Arrival in Dervio

At the end of our hike, we can enjoy a stroll along the lakefront before heading to Dervio station to catch the train back to Varenna.

What to bring

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

Questions?