Trekking on the route Sentiero del Viandante

The route Sentiero del Viandante is a wonderful centuries-old path on the eastern shore of Lake Como, walked especially by all true lovers of trekking, history and nature but also loved by families and amateurs.

Trekking on the route Sentiero del Viandante is a must-do for any kind of wayfarers. The trail belongs to the deepest history of Lake Como, and it is the perfect route for an easy and unforgettable trekking on Lake Como.
The path, born as an important trade route along the eastern shore of the lake, is now one of the most beloved trekking trails. It offers breathtaking panoramic views and is rich in geological and botanical peculiarities. Woods, fields, olive trees, vines and chestnut groves are to be found along the way, but the area is also rich in small artistic jewels, ruins and remnants of the World Wars.
Emotions and astonishment will thus accompany you throughout all the path: every stone, every tree, every small village crossed has its own story to tell. You only need to open your heart and listen.
Its history is a centuries-old one. Several times nature has interrupted the wayfarers’ way with landslides and rockfalls, but man has always rebuilt it with tenacity and patience.

The route Sentiero del Viandante was revalued and gained back a surprising collective interest thanks to the commendable work of some historians. It was then recovered by the Lecco Tourist Promotion Company and by the Mountain Community of Eastern Lario in 1992.
The route is about 45 km long and stretches from Lecco to Colico. It’s well-marked with orange-colored plaques and arrows bearing the inscription Sentiero del Viandante.

It runs on the first slopes of the mountains that border the lake. It is not very strenuous, except for a few short stretches due to the elevation gain on the section (about 800 m) from Lierna to Varenna.

The route Sentiero del Viandante can be walked at any time of year. Each season, in fact, is able to inspire unique sensations and emotions. We must admit, though, that our favorite periods are early autumn and spring, due to the impressive colors of nature.
The whole route, from Abbadia to Colico, is an exclusive journey of images, suggestions and encounters that you can split up into 3-4 stages and therefore face in several days. Along the way you can easily find refreshment points and overnight stays. However, the most trained can also attempt the feat in a single day.

The route Sentiero del Viandante: useful information

The starting point in Abbadia Lariana can be reached by train, bus or car. It is located along the SP72 road, at street number 175, a few dozen meters after the exit of the tunnel that connects with the SS36. The road is generally busy and it is not always easy to find parking in close proximity. You can find a lot of literature about it on the internet, but for those nostalgic for the good old printed books, we suggest the following pocket edition:
Il sentiero del viandante – Albano Marcarini.
Here you can find the detailed description of the route, enriched with 17 well-illustrated tables and useful information for planning. Above all, you will enjoy a story about the route, its places, its people, its beauties and its history.
All that remains is for us to wish you... Enjoy your walking!