SELF GUIDED WALKING PACKAGE
Lake Como is the most romantic of the Italian lakes, making it the perfect destination for Italy travel. With its top-notch hotels and extensive network of ancient paths, it’s an ideal spot for a walking adventure! Lake Como is not only the most sophisticated and captivating of the Italian lakes, but it’s also the most beautiful. Your tour begins with four days in a charming lakeside town with stunning views towards Switzerland. From there, you’ll take a scenic ferry ride to Bellagio, known as the jewel of Lake Como and often regarded as the most beautiful town in Italy, where you’ll spend two nights.
Each walk will introduce you to a unique aspect of this fascinating region’s history and culture: a scenic lakeside trail that follows a medieval stone trading path through forests and villages along the eastern shore; a loop walk along former smugglers’ routes on the western side of the lake, climbing through oak forests to open farmlands with breathtaking views into Switzerland; an exploration of the charming villages surrounding Bellagio; and, as the grand finale, an extraordinary mountain hike above Bellagio with endless panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
This is a Grade 3 walk, following well-marked routes along a mix of paved stone paths and unsealed roads. Since the trails are located above the lakes, you will encounter some steep climbs to reach the start of each one. The walks typically last 3 to 4 hours, though some can be shortened by taking advantage of the efficient local ferry and bus services.
Our travel team selects the finest Italian accommodation available. On Lake Como, this means staying in exceptional, centrally located, family-run, romantic hotels with which we’ve built long-term relationships. All rooms feature en suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and hearty breakfasts.
Arrive at your starting point, a charming town on the shores of Lake Como. Regular fast trains run from Milano Centrale to Como city, and from there, fast ferries frequently depart for your destination, with a total travel time of approximately 1 hour.
This morning, enjoy a scenic lakeside walk heading north along the western shore towards Switzerland. The route begins with a steep climb to a castle ruins, then levels out as it passes through forests and villages along a medieval stone path that winds above the lake, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the mountains on the eastern shore. The walk concludes in a picturesque lakeside town where you can have lunch before taking a train or ferry back to your base. You can also shorten the walk by stopping at an earlier village and using the local transport.
(4hrs; 10km; elevation gain: min 211m, max 424m)
Today is a free day to explore the lake. We will provide details (opening times, ferry schedules, etc.) to visit two of Lake Como’s finest villas and gardens, both easily reachable by short, scenic ferry rides (25 minutes). The first villa, built in the 17th century and once hosting Napoleon, is renowned for its immaculate lawns and rhododendron gardens. The second, located two ferry stops further, sits on a forested promontory surrounded by English gardens with sweeping views of the lake. Built around a 14th-century abbey, this villa is famous for the remarkable collections of its last owner, an Italian pioneer who was also the first to climb Mt. Everest. From here, you’ll enjoy a pleasant 45-minute ferry ride back to your base.
Alternatively, we’ve included an optional walk from the opposite side of the lake, easily accessible by ferry. This walk involves a steady but manageable climb to a charming church offering spectacular views of the lake. You can also shorten this walk if needed.
(3.5hrs; 9km; elevation gain: min 210m, max 880m)
Today’s walk takes you on a loop up into the mountains on the eastern side of the lake. Following old smugglers’ paths, this spectacular trail leads through oak forests and opens into farmland and orchards with grazing cows wearing bells. The walk offers stunning views across Lake Lugano. You’ll descend via an ancient cobblestone path that brings you back to the lake.
(4hrs; 12.5km; elevation gain: min 204m, max 512m)
Transfer to Bellagio with a short ferry ride across the lake (your luggage will be privately driven to your next accommodation), which will be your base for the next two nights. In the afternoon, take a delightful walk around the Bellagio promontory, exploring the two branches of the lake, passing through fishing villages, and admiring 8th and 19th-century villas. Finish the day at the stunning gardens of Villa Melzi, situated at the edge of town.
(1.5hrs; 4km; elevation gain: min 199m, max 247m)
Today, you’ll embark on a loop walk around Monte San Primo, the mountain behind Bellagio, where you’ll experience the most panoramic views of Lake Como. A taxi will take you to the start of the trail, and you’ll be picked up from the same point at the end of the walk.
(3hrs; 7km; elevation gain: min 1111m, max 1662m)
There is also a shorter option that avoids the steep climb to the mountain’s summit.
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Como railway station at 08:00 (adjustable), allowing you to catch national and international trains, arriving just before 09:00. Transfers to Malpensa Airport can also be arranged if needed.
| Starts | Ends | Price | Status | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/01/2025 | 31/12/2025 | On Request | On Request | Book Now |
Airfare and luggage charges
Meals other than those indicated, beverages in addition to the reasonable amount provided during meals
Travel insurance
Passport and other documentation fees
Items of a personal nature i.e. laundry, phone calls, mini bar, shopping etc
Tipping/Gratuities
Single supplement (if required and if available)
Optional excursions/sightseeing
City Tax: some City Councils may introduce a tourist tax that has to be paid directly at the hotel
* Please note, price is subject to fluctuation and availability is subject to change until booked and confirmed. *