Visit Colonno, Lake Como
Colonno rises steeply on the slopes of Mount Costone, or Costolone, on the western shore of Lake Como.
The word Colonus, from which the place name is derived, testifies to its foundation in Roman times, when Julius Caesar wanted this area to be colonized by wealthy families from Magna Graecia. Also, the discovery of a fisherman's tomb from Roman times strengthens this thesis.
The town stretches out on the shore of the lake and still retains a typical medieval village structure, with narrow streets, houses leaning against each other, and alleys that lead to small forecourts by the lake. The settlement is crossed by the river Pessetta: here you can see a very characteristic house that overhangs the river.
The historic hamlets of Camanna, Cima and Pianca are typical parts of it.
Walking along the mule tracks that climb the steep slopes of the town, you will find yourself surrounded by small, cultivated terraces until you finally get to the mountain agglomerations of Barnengo, Cambrianico, Corniga, Prati and Solasco.
In ancient times the economy was based on the trade not only of agricultural and fish products, but especially of the popular clay extracted from the river Pessetta. This latter was well known and used to relieve rheumatic pain, and was sold by the women of Colonno even in the bigger markets of Como and Milan.
What to do, to visit and to see in Colonno
Waterfall of Colonno, also known as Cascata delle Camogge
The Waterfall of Colonno, known as the Cascata delle Camogge, is visible from the Regina Highway where, with a final drop, it thunderously plunges into the lake.
At mid-slope above Colonno, one can catch the glimpse of the tremendous leap of more than 100 m high as it crashes into the rock. The vehemence with which it falls into the lake, lapping the Via Regina, is something impressive!
Museum, villas, monuments and sights
Events, festivals and music in Colonno
Beaches and lidos, where to swim in Colonno
Lido di Colonno.
Best treks and scenic hiking trails in Colonno
If you want to go trekking, hiking or nordic-walling on Lake Como and discover trails above the Colonno mountains, we recommend the team HIKING LAKE COMO. Francesca and Mario are professional and passionate certified guides, as well as enthusiastic local people. Contact here.
How to get to Colonno
Curiosity and further deepening
Villa Pizzo, in Cernobbio, one of the most fascinating and historically rich residences on Lake Como. Available for guided tours and private events.