- Villages
- Lakes
Varenna
The fishermen's village newly popular as a picture postcard destination, with itineraries of art and nature
Varenna, on the Lecco branch of Lake Como, stretches for more than 12 km with a picturesque charm to be discovered on a stroll, or by taking a timeless Vespa ride along the shoreline.
For trekking enthusiasts, Varenna is also one of the stops on the Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer's Path), a panoramic itinerary that runs along the eastern side of Lake Como and offers views of rare beauty. From the village, routes of increasing difficulty and length lead to Bellano, Lierna and Albiga.
If, however, you prefer to be surrounded by art, Varenna offers architectural gems such as Villa Monastero, in eclectic style with a botanical garden, and the Castello di Vezio, a thousand-year-old military outpost on a promontory. The more romantic among you cannot miss the Lovers' Promenade, a walkway with panoramic views, 350 metres above the lake. To conclude, you can treat yourself to a good aperitif of lake fish accompanied by a slow walk through the historic fishermen's streets or along the flowery lakeside promenade. Varenna is a particularly popular destination for international tourism, so plan your trip carefully.
Varenna is about 30 km from Lecco and can be reached by car via the SS36 Lake Como and Spluga road at the Bellano/Valsassina exit. The village is also easily accessible by train, on the lines to Tirano, Lecco and Bergamo, stopping at Varenna-Esino.
