To the mountain hut

Embark on an unforgettable guided journey around Lake Como with our immersive two-day hiking experience. Traverse breathtaking trails, meet local farmers, explore sheep, goat, and mountain cow farms, and indulge in fresh, locally-sourced produce. Spend a peaceful night in a rustic mountain cabin, hike to Monte Crocione, and revel in panoramic views of Lombardy’s valleys. This adventure includes traditional dining, wildlife encounters, and a relaxing sunset aperitif overlooking the serene beauty of Lake Como.

Tour Overview

The tour is spread over two days, with the first day dedicated to an evening approach to the mountain hut, which will serve as the base for the excursion. Departure is in the afternoon from the Ossuccio parking lot, followed by about an hour’s hike to the hut. Dinner and overnight accommodation will follow upon arrival.

The next day begins with a roughly 3-hour hike, taking us across several peaks and ultimately reaching Monte Crocione, which offers stunning views of Lake Como. Afterward, we will descend to Rifugio Venini for lunch.

In the second part of the day, we will visit a family-run farm that produces the typical local cheese, Zincarlin, from goat and cow milk. There will be an opportunity to purchase some directly from the producer.

Finally, we will return to the hut for a farewell aperitif before descending to the parking lot and heading home.

Excluding the initial climb to the hut on the first day (which takes about an hour with an elevation gain of approximately 500 meters), the excursion on the second day lasts around 8 hours with a total elevation gain of about 1,000 meters. The hike can be adjusted according to the group’s needs, with options to skip certain peaks, thereby significantly shortening the route. The trail is classified as a hiking path and is technically accessible to anyone with a minimum level of training and hiking experience.

Day 1: Journey to a Secluded Mountain Cabin

The adventure begins with a hike to a secluded mountain cabin where you can enjoy dinner and rest as dusk falls. This rustic cabin features wood heating and drinking water sourced directly from a nearby spring. Electricity is limited to a small battery that powers the cabin’s lights. The setting is truly rustic, offering a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of city life, work activities, and daily commitments. Here, peace and quiet are guaranteed at night, and waking up to the sunrise over Lake Como is an unforgettable experience.

Once you leave the parking lot, you will follow the initial part of the trail along the Via Crucis of Madonna del Soccorso. The trail then turns into a steep dirt road, allowing for a quick ascent over just a few kilometers. As you climb, the scenery becomes increasingly breathtaking. The hike takes about an hour, with an elevation gain of approximately 600 meters.

Day 2: Exploring the Peaks and Valleys

Morning Hike to Monte Crocione

The day begins with the first light of dawn and an energizing breakfast featuring coffee or tea and local products such as cakes, cookies, and blueberry jam from nearby farms. The hike takes you across five small peaks, each offering a unique and incredible view of the surrounding landscape.

The first stop, about an hour into the hike, is the summit of Cima della Duaria. On clear days, you can distinctly see iconic mountains around Lake Como, such as the Grigna and Grignetta, as well as some of the most imposing peaks of the Alpine arc, like the Monte Rosa massif.

The second stop is Monte di Lenno, reachable after about two hours of walking. From this peak, you can observe the border between Italy and Switzerland. An hour later, you will reach the summit of Monte Galbiga, where you can simultaneously see Lake Como and Lake Lugano.

Finally, after one more hour of hiking, you will traverse Monte di Tremezzo and reach Monte Crocione. From here, the view is so breathtaking that it feels like you’re flying over Lake Como.

The trail is a hiking path with no significant technical difficulties and a total elevation gain of about 1,000 meters. It is essential to have proper fitness, but the route allows you to skip some peaks if you want to reduce the difficulty.

Lunch with Local Delicacies at Rifugio Venini

If the schedule is followed properly, you will begin your descent from Monte Crocione in time to reach the nearby Rifugio Venini by lunchtime. Here, you can savor the most typical local dishes while enjoying an unforgettable view of the valley. If the timing doesn’t align with the rifugio’s hours, you can take a break for a packed lunch instead.

Evening Aperitif with Lake Como Views

After recharging with an excellent lunch at Rifugio Venini, you will begin the main descent back to the cabin, with a brief stop at a local cheese-producing farm. Here, you can explore the livestock in their natural surroundings and taste and purchase genuine local products, including cheeses, eggs, and blueberries. Once back at the cabin, you can enjoy a sunset aperitif, sampling local valley food accompanied by a glass of wine.

Back to home

By this point, you will have experienced an adventure that will be hard to forget. However, it will be time to bid farewell and begin the final descent from the cabin to the parking lot. The walk will take less than an hour, and although your legs might feel a bit tired, we are sure that your mind and spirit will feel completely rejuvenated after such a day.

Extras

In the vicinity, there are also two other intriguing opportunities to explore: Isola Comacina and Dosso di Lavedo.

Isola Comacina is a small but historically rich island. It is the only island on the lake and is known for its lush greenery, ancient ruins, and the picturesque Church of San Giovanni. The island has a fascinating history dating back to Roman times and has been a significant site for various civilizations over the centuries. Visitors can explore the remains of old churches and archaeological sites, enjoying a peaceful escape with stunning views of the surrounding lake and mountains.

Dosso di Lavedo is celebrated for its panoramic views and historical significance. This area boasts stunning landscapes and serene lake vistas, attracting visitors with its peaceful ambiance and natural beauty. Hiking trails around Dosso di Lavedo offer explorers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the lush surroundings and absorb the rich history of the region. The site is steeped in legends and mysteries, adding an intriguing layer to its allure for those keen on delving into the cultural and natural wonders of Lake Como.