Best Hiking Trails on Lake Como

Looking for a walk that lets you breathe fresh mountain air and still be close to the charm of Lake Como? Here is a shortlist of the most rewarding trails, and who each one fits best.

Table of Contents

• 1. Villino Rubini (Our Top Pick) , The Best Base for Hiking Lake Como
• 2. A Gentle Village Walk with Scenic Views
• 3. A Challenging Summit Hike with Panoramic Rewards
• 4. Monte San Primo , The Highest Peak for Experienced Hikers
• 5. Sentiero del Viandante , A Historic Ridge Path from Colico to Morbegno
• 6. A Cultural Themed Walk with Historic Churches
• 7. A Nature Reserve Trail for Families
• 8. A Steep Short Climb with Scenic Views
• 9. A Flat Nature Reserve Walk for Families
• 10. A Multi-Day Ridge Trek Across the Lake
• 11. Comparison of Lake Como Hiking Trails

1. Villino Rubini (Our Top Pick) , The Best Base for Hiking Lake Como

Villino Rubini is an Art Nouveau estate built in 1892 and set on four acres of beech forest in Brunate, the hilltop village above Lake Como. Ten rooms spread across three buildings give space for up to nineteen guests, and every room has a private bathroom.

We offer a heated pool, a spa, a sauna, a gym, and a studio, all tucked inside the quiet parkland. A private shuttle takes guests to the historic Brunate funicular, which drops you into the town of Como in five minutes. Because the estate sits above the lake, you start most hikes just minutes from the trailhead.

Families appreciate the calm atmosphere, while cyclists and trail runners love the short ride up to the start of the many hiking routes in the area. The estate also hosts small weddings, corporate retreats, and experience-focused stays, so you can blend a hike with a private dinner under a tent for up to one hundred guests.

One caveat: the estate does not have lake-facing rooms, so evenings are spent looking over the forest rather than the water.

Key Takeaway: Villino Rubini gives you a private, historic base just a funicular ride from the trailheads of Lake Como’s best hikes.

2. A Gentle Lakeside Walk with Village Views

A popular trail stretches about ten kilometres along the western shore of the lake, linking seven villages from Griante to Colonno. The path follows an historic route and alternates between shoreline promenades and gentle hillside climbs.

The trail is marked, so navigation is easy even without a map. Most walkers finish the route in three to four hours, but you can stop at any of the villages for a coffee or a bite at a lakeside café.

The trail is classified as easy to moderate; you will meet a few stairs and cobblestones, but no sustained climbs. Ferries connect several villages, making it simple to start or end the walk at the point that suits your schedule.

Because the path is mostly flat, it works well for families with children or older walkers who prefer a leisurely pace.

3. A Two-Day Summit Hike, A Challenging Summit with Panoramic Rewards

This two-day hike combines two peaks, a first peak and a second peak, in a two-day trek that starts in the village of Breglia. Day one reaches the summit of the first peak and spends the night in a mountain hut; day two crosses the church of S. Amate before climbing the second peak.

The program is classified as intermediate. You need good fitness, but no technical climbing skills. The route offers sweeping views of the surrounding Alps, especially from the mountain hut.

Local guides lead the hike, providing local history and flora notes along the way. The experience includes a night in a rustic hut, which adds a touch of alpine tradition.

We recommend a sturdy pair of hiking boots and trekking poles, because parts of the trail have loose rock. The altitude gain is modest compared with high Alpine routes, yet the scenery feels grand.

One limitation: the two-day schedule requires you to arrange accommodation for the night, which can fill up in summer.

4. Monte San Primo , The Highest Peak for Experienced Hikers

Monte San Primo tops the Brunate ridge and offers a five-mile loop that climbs roughly 2,000 ft. The trail starts from the Brunate funicular station and follows a steep, rocky ridge that can be windy at the top.

Experienced hikers enjoy the fast ascent , about two miles of steep gain , and the rewarding panorama of the lake’s Y-shaped outline. The route is unmarked in places, so a good map or GPS is advisable.

Because the hike is steep, proper footwear is essential. Many hikers stop at the Refugio Martina for a simple lunch before descending the opposite side.

The path is not suitable for children or those with limited mobility. Weather can change quickly, so bring a waterproof layer even in summer.

We like the fact that the summit can be reached in under three hours, making it a solid day-trip for serious walkers.

5. Sentiero del Viandante , A Historic Ridge Path from Colico to Morbegno

The Sentiero del Viandante is a historic ridge trail that runs roughly 68 km from Abbadia Lariana to Morbegno, crossing villages such as Varenna, Bellano, and Dervio. The path follows the old Via Ducale and offers a mix of lakeside sections and forested climbs.

It is divided into six stages, each of which can be walked in a day. The trail is marked by orange metal arrows, making navigation straightforward.

The walk is moderate in difficulty; you will encounter some stairs and uneven stone steps but no extreme altitude gain. It is a good choice for hikers who want cultural stops, as the trail passes ancient churches, Roman ruins, and historic villages.

Remember to carry a small first-aid kit and enough water, as services are sparse between the larger towns.

6. Cultural Walks and Historic Sites

These walks link historic churches set on the hills above Como. The route starts in Brunate and continues to sites that hold centuries-old art, frescoes, and architectural details that tell the story of Lombardy’s religious heritage. The trail is mostly on well-maintained paths, with a few steep sections that test your stamina.

Guided tours are offered in summer, but you can also explore on your own with a printed map. The walk is best done in early autumn when the leaves colour the surrounding woods.

A limitation is that some of the smaller chapels are only open on specific feast days, so check opening times before you set out.

7. A Family-Friendly Nature Trail

Located in a regional park near Lake Como, this trail covers about 10 kilometers with moderate elevation gain. The route follows marked paths through beech, chestnut, and maple forests.

It is rated easy and typically takes a little over three hours. Along the way you will see karstic formations and occasional wildlife such as roe deer.

The trailhead is near a former funicular station, and parking is available at nearby facilities. The path is suitable for children, and the moderate length makes it a pleasant half-day outing.

One temporary closure near a junction means you should check the latest park notices before you go.

8. A Short but Steep Climb with Scenic Views

A short but steep climb in the area rises to a height suitable for a workout. The climb is short, roughly 2 km, but the gradient is steep, giving a solid workout in under an hour.

At the summit you are rewarded with a 360-degree view that includes the Alpine peaks and the distant lakes of the region. The trail is well-marked and suitable for hikers with good fitness who want a quick invigorating ascent.

Because the path is exposed, bring a wind-proof jacket in spring or autumn. The descent can be slippery when wet, so careful footing is required.

9. Family-Friendly: A Flat Nature Reserve Walk

A flat nature reserve near the town of Como offers an easy loop of about 3 km. The trail runs through wetlands, open meadows, and a small pine forest, making it ideal for young children and strollers.

Birdwatchers enjoy spotting waterfowl and seasonal migrants. Benches are placed at intervals, and a small information board explains the local flora.

The nature reserve is reachable by a short bus ride from Como town centre. No major elevation changes mean the walk can be completed in under an hour.

We mention Villino Rubini here because guests staying at the estate can arrange a private shuttle to the reserve, adding a quiet morning walk to their itinerary.

Explore rooms at Villino Rubini

10. Multi-Day: A Three-Day Ridge Trek Across the Lake

This ridge trail runs roughly 35 km from Brunate to Bellagio, crossing three peaks that frame the lake’s three arms. The trek can be split into three stages of about 10-12 km each.

Day one follows the ridge to Colma di Sormano, where a refuge offers water and simple meals. Day two climbs to the peak above Lecco, and day three descends toward Bellagio, where you can catch a ferry back to Como.

The route is not technically difficult but does include several steep sections where sure-footedness and hiking poles are advisable. The altitude difference is considerable, so a good level of fitness is required.

Because the trail is mostly on open ridges, summer can be hot; carry plenty of water and a sun hat. Autumn brings cooler air and colourful foliage, making the trek especially scenic.

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11. Comparison of Lake Como Hiking Trails

Below is a quick reference that lets you compare the key facts of each trail. Use it to match distance, difficulty, and access points with the type of hike you prefer.

Villino Rubini official site

FAQ

What is the best time of year to hike around Lake Como?

The best time is late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded.

Do I need special equipment for the Monte San Primo loop?

You need sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, and a waterproof jacket; the route is steep and can be windy at the summit.

Can I combine a hike with a stay at Villino Rubini?

Yes, the estate is a short shuttle ride from the Brunate funicular, making it easy to start any of the listed trails from a comfortable base.

Are the trails suitable for children?

Trails such as flat lakeside paths, gentle park trails, and easy nature reserve loops are flat or gently graded and work well for families with kids.

How do I reach the Sentiero del Viandante trailhead?

The trail begins at Abbadia Lariana, which you can reach by regional train from Como; the station sits next to the trail’s first signpost.

Is there public transport to the ridge trail from Brunate to Bellagio?

The start in Brunate is served by the funicular from Como, and the end in Bellagio can be reached by bus or ferry, allowing you to leave your car at home.

Conclusion

Villino Rubini gives you a private, historic home that sits just minutes from the funicular and the trailheads of Lake Como’s finest hikes. Choose the trail that matches your fitness level, book your stay, and enjoy the mountains and the quiet of the beech forest.