Top 5 Trails and Hikes in Menaggio!

May, 24 2016 ( Updated January, 13 2023)

Italy

Lake Como

Commonly known for its historical and cultural attractions, Lake Como also happens to be a favourite destination for those who love outdoor adventures and an active holiday. And why shouldn’t it be? Set against the rugged, forested foothills of the Alps, the region offers many outdoor activities, including a variety of hiking and walking trails in the mountains, as well as, some of the best swimming spots around the majestic lake.

A young woman hiker joined by dogs, enjoying the view of Lake Como and the Alps, Lombardy, Italy A stunning panoramic Lake Como view

The beautiful setting, the perfect weather and the less-explored attractions of the destination surely tempt tourists to go up to the mountains and venture beyond the obvious. Therefore, we are bringing to you the best Lake Como hikes near Menaggio–a famous lake town known for its touristic infrastructure and natural beauty!

1. Rifugio Menaggio- Monte Grona

Difficulty level: Steep ascent

This trail which begins from Bregalia, a short distance from Menaggio, is less than two hours of hiking to Rifugio Menaggio, situated at a height of 1400m on the southern slope of Monte Grona. For those looking for some outdoor activities around Lake Como, this trail provides the perfect opportunity as you can extend the trip further up on Monte Grona (1736 m) and Monte Bregagno (2107m). Along the trail, you cross a number of fountains and picnic areas located amidst beautiful sceneries and spectacular views of the Lake Como landscape. Highlight: Fifteen minutes from the rifugio is a viewpoint called Pizzo Coppa from where you can view the entire Menaggio valley including Lake Como, Lake Lugano and Lake Piano.

A hiker enjoying the stunning panoramic view of Lake Como and Lake Lugano from Pizzo Coppa, Menaggio Soak up the breath-taking views of Lake Como and Lake Lugano at Pizzo Coppa

2. Hike to Park Val Sanagra

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

There are a number of hiking routes to reach this area which is rich in flora, fauna and antique rural settlements. On the way, hikers cross the river Sanagra and the walk continues after crossing the bridge. Depending on which route you take you either come across traces of traditional activities like mills, lime-pits and furnaces or through the woods. In case you choose the latter, don’t forget to stop a while and check out Il Rogolone, an enormous oak tree in the middle of a clearing in the woods. Highlight: This hiking trail around Lake Como is full of churches, chapels, hamlets, beautiful patrician houses and villas.

3. Monti Di Nava

Difficulty level: Steep ascent from Croce to Nava

This is one of the more difficult Menaggio hikes. It takes about 4 hours to complete but is totally worth it for the marvellous views of the Menaggio valley, central lake areas and surrounding mountains. On the way, you cross a number of churches, woods and rural settlements. Highlight: You will encounter the most beautiful view of the peninsula of Lavedo and the towns of Tremezzo, Mezzegra and Lenno on the course of your trail.

An aerial view of the beautiful Peninsula of Lavedo with Villa del Balbianello on Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy. The famous Villa del Balbianello perched on the peninsula of Lavedo

4. La Crocetta and the trenches of the First World War

Difficulty level: Easy

The hiking trail, which takes less than an hour to complete, promises a lovely view of Menaggio and the central lake area from the top of the hill. The trail starts from Croce, the highest village in elevation in the commune of Menaggio, where you can find a typical sixteenth-century square. On your way, you also cross the Menaggio-Cadenabbia golf club, one of the oldest golf courses in Italy. Highlight: There is a network of trenches spread just before you reach Crocetta which was a part of the great defence line built in 1915 along the Swiss-Italian border. Tip: La Crocetta is also one of our top 3 chapel climbs in the region! For the other two, check out chapel trails around Lake Como.

5. The Antica Strada Regina

Difficulty level: Steep ascent in some parts.

The trail begins from Menaggio, from the lake promenade beyond the lido and continues for about 3 hours. On the way, you cross tunnels, the river Serio, famous villas, fishers’ villages and a number of churches. Finally, you reach Antica Strada Regina which was built during the Roman Empire and served as an essential connection between the north and south side of the Alps for centuries. Highlight: As you cross Antica Strada Regina, you will find small kitchen gardens (for growing local vegetables and fruits for domestic use) and fountains. You will find a picturesque harbour when you descend down the cobbled stone paths to the lakeside.

Aerial view of the lakeside town of Menaggio with hiking trails on Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy. Aerial view of Menaggio on a beautiful sunny day

Hiking with kids and pets on Lake Como

If you are visiting with family and want to go on a Lake Como hike along with your little ones as well as furry friends, then the panoramic Greenway trail offers an unmissable experience. The route starts from Colonno and goes through Ossuccio and Tremezzo, with main attractions like Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello crowning the route! In fact, on any sunny day in Menaggio, Villa del Balbianello, Villa Olmo, Como-Brunate Funicular are some of the must-visit places. Plus, if you want to visit the other famous towns of Lake Como, then Varenna and Bellagio can be easily reached via a 15-30 minutes ferry ride from here.

All in all, Menaggio is one of the most attractive and well-connected towns on Lake Como and there are half a dozen more hiking trails from Menaggio which can be explored during your lake break! You can read more about them on the official tourism website of Menaggio.

Inspired to put on your hiking shoes and head to the lake town? Check out our wide range of Menaggio rentals to suit all kinds of budgets!

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