Start from the charming Varenna, on the Lecco branch of the lake, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this ancient village. Stroll along its narrow cobblestone streets and admire the picturesque houses overlooking the lake. We also highly recommend a stop at the grand Castello di Vezio.
Venture into the characteristic flora of the Grigna Settentrionale Regional Park: a large protected mountain area near Lecco, between Lake Como and Valsassina. Characterized by limestone rocks, woods and pastures, it offers unique alpine scenery, with numerous refuges, hiking trails and climbing routes.
Continue your itinerary toward the Municipality of Esino Lario, also known as "The Pearl of the Grigne," and then reach one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Lecco mountains: the Agueglio Pass. Along the road to the Pass, enjoy the scenic curves and admire the spectacular views of Lake Como opening up before you. After that, you'll have the chance to refresh yourself and enjoy excellent specialties, both local and reimagined, at Locanda Montefiori in Esino Lario.
Next is the famous Orrido di Bellano, where the force of water has created a spectacular rocky gorge. The natural beauty of this evocative place is spectacular!
At the end of the day, you'll visit Bellano, the "town of artists," with a medieval character featuring perpendicular streets, archways, patrician palaces and the ancient port. It's also one of the municipalities that preserves the tradition of the Sentiero del Viandante, an ancient pedestrian path that runs along the lake. Here you'll have the chance to dine and spend the night at Albergo del Sole.
Take the ferry early in the morning from Varenna to Menaggio, admiring the lake from a different perspective, with the sun illuminating the mountains. You'll visit an elegant town located on the western shore of Lake Como, which forms the "Golden Triangle" with Bellagio and Varenna. Famous for its refined lakefront promenade, the historic center with romantic alleyways, offering an excellent mix of art, history, sports and excellent gastronomy.
You'll reach Tremezzo by Vespa, unmissable as it's designated one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, located on the western shore of Lake Como." Visit Villa Carlotta, famous for its wonderful botanical gardens and artworks.
Arriving in Lenno, you'll find yourself in this splendid village known for the charming Gulf of Venus and its prestigious historic villas that dot the town. In fact, you can't miss Villa del Balbianello: one of the most famous villas on Lake Como and has been the set of major films. We highly recommend continuing toward Colonno to walk a stretch of the famous Greenway, a scenic route among villages, olive groves and lake views.
You'll conclude this weekend with a ferry from Lenno that will take you back to Varenna to return the Vespas by 6:00 PM.
