Included: 8-day Lake Como and Maggiore self-guided hiking adventure Accommodation: 7 nights based on double occupancy with private facilities, either in charming B&Bs and a 2-star hotel for the standard edition of the trip, or 3 and 4-star hotels for the upgraded edition of the trip Meals: All breakfasts Boats ticket for Como Lake and Lake Maggiore, as listed in the itinerary Taxi transfers as listed in the program Road Book with detailed walking itineraries, including highlighted maps 24/7 phone assistance Only for the standard edition of the trip: Day 1 transfer from Lenno boat pier to the B&B Add-ons: A road map of the region Single supplement Not included: Flights to and from Italy Boat Como/Lenno Day 5: boat Cannobio / Cannero Day 7: bus or train Belgirate / Stresa Meals not indicated in the itinerary Entrance fees to museums, gardens and villas, Borromean islands Guide gratuities — optional Travel and medical insurance — optional *Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary (in case there is a detailed list).

How fit do I need to be?

This Como-Maggiore self-guided hiking adventure is rated moderate, which means that a reasonably good level of fitness is required. Expect to walk 10 to 12 km / 6 to 7.5 mi on hiking days. Some trails might be rocky, so be prepared and bring good hiking boots with ankle support, as well as hiking poles. For more hiking adventures in Italy, click here !

What are the trails like?

We recommend walking poles. The itineraries are more often than not waymarked and on well-defined paths, tracks, and sometimes back country roads. The trails can be rocky, so good boots with ankle support and walking poles are highly recommended. You will be in a zone where water is scarce, so you will have to bring enough water with you each day as there are few options to fill up during the walk. Occasionally in the late spring or early summer, you may encounter some snow, depending on the region you are hiking in.

How do boat tickets work?

The boat tickets on the lake are booked for a specific date that can not be changed. If you want to change the boat ticket date, you will have to buy a new ticket (around 4 to 7 EUR / USD per person).

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry everything you might need throughout the day (around a 25-40L bag) Hiking poles — optional, but highly recommended Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Comfortable hiking clothes Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

What is a self-guided tour?

A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator, such as maps, guidebooks, or digital apps. Your guide will also take care of other parts of the tour, such as 24/7 support, accommodation, and selected transportation.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Como Maggiore self-guided hiking adventure, it takes a minimum of 1 person for the tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 6 participants. The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family! Please note that your chosen dates for the tour are not guaranteed until confirmed by the guide. If the guide is unable to secure your preferred dates/accommodation, you’ll get a full refund! Hiking in Italy can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Como Maggiore self-guided hiking adventure is Lenno. To get there, most people fly into Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP) . From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Lenno.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

LENNO | ITALY

Self-Guided Hiking Adventure in Italy: Lake Como and Lake Maggiore

5.00

From $2,180 ()

Duration

8 days

Season

March through November

Self-guided adventure

Accommodation, breakfasts, boat tickets, select transfers, detailed road book, and support arranged

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Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Accommodation and food
Reviews
Things to know

Italy’s Lakes Como and Maggiore are ready to dazzle you on this 8-day self-guided hiking adventure crafted for explorers who prefer their own pace. Stroll through villages where time stands still, climb trails with views that stop you in your tracks, and ferry across waters so beautiful they inspire poets. Discover gardens in full bloom, ancient chapels perched on cliffs, and villas steeped in history. From the azalea-draped hills to the Borromean Islands’ splendor, this adventure is packed with beauty, serenity, and the freedom to soak it all in your way. Accommodation and breakfasts? Handled. The rest? That’s your adventure to create!

Adventure highlights

Lakeside tranquility

Stroll through peaceful trails connecting picturesque villages like Varenna, Belgirate, and Carmine Superiore
Cinematic moments

Step into the iconic scenery of lakeside villas featured in blockbuster movies
Botanical beauty

Be amazed by citrus trees, azaleas, and ancient cypresses at lakeside gardens

Available itineraries

Download itineraries

Self-Guided Hiking Adventure in Italy: Lake Como and Lake Maggiore (Standard Edition)

Explore the stunning lakes of Como and Maggiore on an 8-day self-guided hiking trip that blends breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and luxurious charm. Traverse trails once walked by Roman soldiers, ferry between picturesque villages, and discover elegant villas with lush botanical gardens. From Bellagio’s timeless allure to the peaceful Borromean Islands, this journey is an ode to Italy’s finest. With all breakfasts and accommodations included, you’ll enjoy the freedom to savor this adventure at your own pace while soaking up panoramic views, vibrant gardens, and ancient paths.

Regardless of the trip version you choose, the itinerary remains the same. Choose this version if you prefer staying at comfy B&Bs and 2-star hotels.

You travel on your own to Lenno. For the standard edition of the trip, there’s a transfer from Lenno boat pier to your B&B in Lenno (as the B&B is located 15 walking minutes from the boat pier). Upon arrival, have a stroll through the peaceful village of Lenno. In summer, you can enjoy the small pebble beach by the lake and jump in for a swim.

If you arrive in the morning, we recommend starting your walking holiday in Italy with a visit to the gardens of the Villa Balbianello (not included), an elegant and romantic XVIII-century residence and one of the settings chosen for the Star Wars and 007 Casino Royale movies.

Accommodation: Il Grifo
There’s a boat transfer that goes back and forth from Lenno to Bellagio arranged for you. The composer Gabriel Fauré called Bellagio “the pearl of Lario” and “one of the most beautiful sites of the Earth and the most voluptuous of Italy”. You’ll reach the picturesque village of Pescallo and cross the park of Villa Giolia before climbing to Perlo. Afterwards, it’s back to Bellagio by the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi (not included), both rented by Stendhal.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 12 km / 7.5 mi, 4 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: Il Grifo
On Day 3, there’s a boat transfer to Bellano, on the eastern shore of the lake. Today is all about hiking above the lake, all the way to Varenna, a splendid colored village. The “Sentiero del Viandante” hiking route was traced by the Roman legionaries who reached the great passes of the Alps. It’s a gentle climb past the “Orrido di Bellano” (visit is possible), and natural gorges formed in antiquity. The path then offers panoramic views, passing through the village of Gittana and the Vézio castle.

You’ll end the walk in the village of Varenna, known for its colorful hillside houses. In Varenna, visit the Villa Monastero gardens (not included). The villa is surrounded by a botanical garden home to rhododendrons, glycines, magnolias, and citrus fruit trees. Garden enthusiasts can also visit the Villa Cipressi, dating back to the Renaissance era. Later on, there’s a boat ride back to Lenno.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3.5 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: Il Grifo
From Lenno, your walk will take you through the hills of the Azalea Riviera providing stunning panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can witness the fantastic contrasts between olive groves and immaculate gardens of the glamourous villas, along with medieval villages and stunning Renaissance churches.

You can visit the famous Villa Carlotta (not included), famous for its beautiful terraced garden with Italian lemon and carved boxwood, and a rich interior decorated with neoclassical works. Later on, transfer to Lake Maggiore to the charming town of Cannero or Cannobio, by the lake shore.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3 hours
Elevation: + 200m / +656 ft, -200m / -656 ft
Accommodation: B&B Casa Banano
You’ll start your walk in the small village of Cannero and hike on the old mule path to the medieval village of Carmine Superiore. On the way, enjoy magnificent views over Lake Maggiore, and think about the possibility of visiting the San Gottardo church. You’ll continue
on the panoramic path towards the village of Molineggi, Solivo, and then Cannobio. There’s a boat transfer from Cannobio to Cannero (not included).

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3 hours
Elevation: +400 m / +1,312 ft / -400 m / -1,312 ft
Accommodation: B&B Casa Banano
Day 6 begins with a morning transfer to Stresa, and then you’ll leave your bags in the hotel. Then, there’s a boat transfer to the Borromean islands. Enjoy Isola Bella with its 17th-century palace and Isola Madre with its famous palaces and botanical garden. And finally, the magnificent Isola dei Pescatori, a picturesque little fishing village with narrow streets and lovely restaurants (Borromean islands entrance not included). Later on, there’s a boat transfer back to Stresa.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Montoc
On Day 7, enjoy the panoramic views on this walking trail overlooking the lake from Stresa to Belgirate, a charming village with traditional houses and flowered gardens along an old roman trail dotted with old chapels. Later on, you can return by boat or train to Stresa ( not included).

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3.5 hours
Elevation: + 200m / +656 ft, -200m / -656 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Montoc
This is the last day of this self-guided hiking adventure. After your final breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Lake Como and Maggiore and depart back home.

Meals: Breakfast
Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary (in case there is a detailed list).
Also note that your chosen dates for the tour are not guaranteed until confirmed by the guide. If the guide is unable to secure your preferred dates/accommodation, you’ll get a full refund!

Self-Guided Hiking Adventure in Italy: Lake Como and Lake Maggiore (Upgraded Edition)

Regardless of the trip version you choose, the itinerary remains the same. Choose this version if you prefer staying at amazing 3 and 4-star hotels.

You travel on your own to Lenno. For the standard edition of the trip, there’s a transfer from Lenno boat pier to your B&B in Lenno (as the B&B is located 15 walking minutes from the boat pier). Upon arrival, have a stroll through the peaceful village of Lenno. In summer, you can enjoy the small pebble beach by the lake and jump in for a swim.

If you arrive in the morning, we recommend starting your walking holiday in Italy with a visit to the gardens of the Villa Balbianello (not included), an elegant and romantic XVIII-century residence and one of the settings chosen for the Star Wars and 007 Casino Royale movies.

Accommodation: Hotel Albergo Lenno
There’s a boat transfer that goes back and forth from Lenno to Bellagio arranged for you. The composer Gabriel Fauré called Bellagio “the pearl of Lario” and “one of the most beautiful sites of the Earth and the most voluptuous of Italy”. You’ll reach the picturesque village of Pescallo and cross the park of Villa Giolia before climbing to Perlo. Afterwards, it’s back to Bellagio by the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi (not included), both rented by Stendhal.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 12 km / 7.5 mi, 4 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Albergo Lenno
On Day 3, there’s a boat transfer to Bellano, on the eastern shore of the lake. Today is all about hiking above the lake, all the way to Varenna, a splendid colored village. The “Sentiero del Viandante” hiking route was traced by the Roman legionaries who reached the great passes of the Alps. It’s a gentle climb past the “Orrido di Bellano” (visit is possible), and natural gorges formed in antiquity. The path then offers panoramic views, passing through the village of Gittana and the Vézio castle.

You’ll end the walk in the village of Varenna, known for its colorful hillside houses. In Varenna, visit the Villa Monastero gardens (not included). The villa is surrounded by a botanical garden home to rhododendrons, glycines, magnolias, and citrus fruit trees. Garden enthusiasts can also visit the Villa Cipressi, dating back to the Renaissance era. Later on, there’s a boat ride back to Lenno.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3.5 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Albergo Lenno
From Lenno, your walk will take you through the hills of the Azalea Riviera providing stunning panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can witness the fantastic contrasts between olive groves and immaculate gardens of the glamourous villas, along with medieval villages and stunning Renaissance churches.

You can visit the famous Villa Carlotta (not included), famous for its beautiful terraced garden with Italian lemon and carved boxwood, and a rich interior decorated with neoclassical works. Later on, transfer to Lake Maggiore to the charming town of Cannero or Cannobio, by the lake shore.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3 hours
Elevation: + 200m / +656 ft, -200m / -656 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Pironi
You’ll start your walk in the small village of Cannero and hike on the old mule path to the medieval village of Carmine Superiore. On the way, enjoy magnificent views over Lake Maggiore, and think about the possibility of visiting the San Gottardo church. You’ll continue
on the panoramic path towards the village of Molineggi, Solivo, and then Cannobio. There’s a boat transfer from Cannobio to Cannero (not included).

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3 hours
Elevation: +400 m / +1,312 ft / -400 m / -1,312 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Pironi
Day 6 begins with a morning transfer to Stresa, and then you’ll leave your bags in the hotel. Then, there’s a boat transfer to the Borromean islands. Enjoy Isola Bella with its 17th-century palace and Isola Madre with its famous palaces and botanical garden. And finally, the magnificent Isola dei Pescatori, a picturesque little fishing village with narrow streets and lovely restaurants (Borromean islands entrance not included). Later on, there’s a boat transfer back to Stresa.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Primavera
On Day 7, enjoy the panoramic views on this walking trail overlooking the lake from Stresa to Belgirate, a charming village with traditional houses and flowered gardens along an old roman trail dotted with old chapels. Later on, you can return by boat or train to Stresa ( not included).

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3.5 hours
Elevation: + 200m / +656 ft, -200m / -656 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Primavera
This is the last day of this self-guided hiking adventure. After your final breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Lake Como and Maggiore and depart back home.

Meals: Breakfast
Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary (in case there is a detailed list).
Also note that your chosen dates for the tour are not guaranteed until confirmed by the guide. If the guide is unable to secure your preferred dates/accommodation, you’ll get a full refund!

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Self-Guided Hiking Adventure in Italy: Lake Como and Lake Maggiore

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Walk inn

Walk Inn specializes in hiking and cycling adventures across destinations like Provence, the French Riviera, Corsica, Portugal, Madeira, the Azores, Cape Verde, and Italy's lakes region. They offer guided, self-guided, and custom-made tours, all crafted and tested by their team of multilingual travel experts. With over 15 years of experience, Walk Inn focuses on creating authentic experiences, connecting travelers with local cultures and landscapes. Their guides, often locals themselves, are passionate about sharing the history and beauty of each destination.

Accommodation and food

Food

All breakfasts are included in the price of this Lake Como self-guided hiking tour. Locals in the Lake Como area often start their day with a cappuccino or espresso paired with a croissant, known as a cornetto, which might be filled with jam, custard, or chocolate. Freshly baked bread accompanies butter and local honey, while seasonal fruit adds a burst of natural sweetness. For a heartier option, some enjoy slices of cheese and cured meats, showcasing the region’s artisanal traditions.

Accommodation

For the standard edition of this trip, you’ll be staying at B&Bs Il Grifo and Casa Banano, and at a 2-star Hotel Mon Toc.

On the other hand, the upgraded edition of this trip includes accommodations such as the 4-star Albergo Lenno Hotel with a swimming pool, and 3-star hotels Pironi and Primavera.

5.00(2 reviews)

Martha Schrader

One of our most memorable trips with our kids.

Bastien Serafin

Very professional service coupled with great customer care.

Show all reviews

Things to know

Included:
- - 8-day Lake Como and Maggiore self-guided hiking adventure
  - Accommodation: 7 nights based on double occupancy with private facilities, either in charming B&Bs and a 2-star hotel for the standard edition of the trip, or 3 and 4-star hotels for the upgraded edition of the trip
  - Meals: All breakfasts
  - Boats ticket for Como Lake and Lake Maggiore, as listed in the itinerary
  - Taxi transfers as listed in the program
  - Road Book with detailed walking itineraries, including highlighted maps
    24/7 phone assistance
  - Only for the standard edition of the trip: Day 1 transfer from Lenno boat pier to the B&B
Add-ons:
- - A road map of the region
  - Single supplement
Not included:
- - Flights to and from Italy
  - Boat Como/Lenno
  - Day 5: boat Cannobio / Cannero
  - Day 7: bus or train Belgirate / Stresa
  - Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  - Entrance fees to museums, gardens and villas, Borromean islands
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Travel and medical insurance — optional
*Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary (in case there is a detailed list).
This Como-Maggiore self-guided hiking adventure is rated moderate, which means that a reasonably good level of fitness is required. Expect to walk 10 to 12 km / 6 to 7.5 mi on hiking days. Some trails might be rocky, so be prepared and bring good hiking boots with ankle support, as well as hiking poles.

For more hiking adventures in Italy, click here!
We recommend walking poles. The itineraries are more often than not waymarked and on well-defined paths, tracks, and sometimes back country roads. The trails can be rocky, so good boots with ankle support and walking poles are highly recommended. You will be in a zone where water is scarce, so you will have to bring enough water with you each day as there are few options to fill up during the walk. Occasionally in the late spring or early summer, you may encounter some snow, depending on the region you are hiking in.
The boat tickets on the lake are booked for a specific date that can not be changed. If you want to change the boat ticket date, you will have to buy a new ticket (around 4 to 7 EUR / USD per person).
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry everything you might need throughout the day (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Hiking poles — optional, but highly recommended
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Comfortable hiking clothes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator, such as maps, guidebooks, or digital apps. Your guide will also take care of other parts of the tour, such as 24/7 support, accommodation, and selected transportation.
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this Como Maggiore self-guided hiking adventure, it takes a minimum of 1 person for the tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 6 participants.
  - The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family!
  - Please note that your chosen dates for the tour are not guaranteed until confirmed by the guide. If the guide is unable to secure your preferred dates/accommodation, you’ll get a full refund!
Hiking in Italy can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Como Maggiore self-guided hiking adventure is Lenno. To get there, most people fly into Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Lenno.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.