Self-Guided Lake Como & Maggiore Walking Tour

Make your own way to Lenno and settle into this peaceful lakeside village. Take time to explore the charming streets and relax by the small pebble beach. If you arrive early, consider visiting the stunning Villa Balbianello gardens, an 18th-century residence perched above the lake that featured in Star Wars and Casino Royale films. The romantic terraced gardens and lakefront setting provide a perfect introduction to the region's elegant villas.

Take a boat to Bellagio, often called the 'pearl of the lake.' Your circular walk leads through the picturesque fishing village of Pescallo, then climbs through the wooded park of Villa Giolia to reach the hamlet of Perlo. The return route follows the lakefront past Villa Melzi's beautiful gardens, once rented by the writer Stendhal. The views across Lake Como's three branches are magnificent throughout this memorable day.

Boat across to Bellano on the eastern shore to begin today's walk along the ancient Sentiero del Viandante, originally traced by Roman legionaries crossing the Alps. The trail climbs gently past the dramatic Orrido di Bellano gorges, then continues with sweeping lake panoramas through Gittana village. Pass the medieval Vezio castle before descending to colorful Varenna with its hillside houses. Don't miss Villa Monastero's botanical gardens filled with rhododendrons, magnolias, and citrus trees before returning by boat.

Walk through the hills of the Azalea Riviera, where stunning lake and mountain panoramas unfold at every turn. The landscape contrasts beautifully between manicured villa gardens and rustic olive groves, between elegant Renaissance churches and stone medieval hamlets. Visit the renowned Villa Carlotta with its terraced Italian gardens, English parklands, and neoclassical art collection. After your walk, transfer by vehicle to Lake Maggiore's charming shoreline town of Cannero or Cannobio.

Begin in Cannero and follow an old mule path climbing to the medieval stone village of Carmine Superiore, where you can visit the San Gottardo church. The panoramic trail continues with magnificent Lake Maggiore vistas through the hamlets of Molineggi and Solivo before reaching Cannobio. A scenic boat ride returns you to Cannero along the shoreline, completing this circular route above the lake.

Transfer to elegant Stresa and drop your luggage at your hotel before boarding a boat to the magical Borromean Islands. Explore Isola Bella's 17th-century palace and terraced gardens, Isola Madre's botanical gardens with exotic plants, and Isola dei Pescatori's narrow lanes lined with traditional fishermen's houses. These islands create an unforgettable fairy-tale setting in the middle of Lake Maggiore.

Follow an ancient Roman trail from Stresa to Belgirate, walking high above the lake with panoramic views throughout. The path passes old chapels and winds through chestnut forests before descending to the charming village of Belgirate with its traditional architecture and flower-filled gardens. Return to Stresa by boat or train to complete the day's journey.

Your Lake Maggiore walking adventure concludes after breakfast. Consider visiting the spectacular Santa Caterina del Sasso Monastery before departing—this 13th-century monastery clings dramatically to the cliff face above the lake and houses remarkable 14th-century frescoes. Arriving by boat offers the most stunning approach. Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds and fully appreciate this remarkable lakeside gem.