Mystery and Heritage along Lake Como’s Greenway
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About the Tour
About the Tour
Lake Como's rich history is etched into its landscape, from ancient Roman settlements to mysterious underwater ruins. On this storytelling walking tour, you'll discover the legends and lore that locals have passed down for generations—from the cursed Comacina Island and the lake's own monster Lariosauro
to witches' gatherings and phantom bells ringing from beneath the waters.
You'll start near the ancient church by Isola Comacina, Lake Como's only island, where tales of the Holy Grail and medieval conflicts await. As you follow the blue and yellow arrows of the Greenway, you'll weave through historic villages, passing elegant villas that were once monasteries and the homes of cardinals. Along the way, you'll learn about traditional boats that once plied these waters, ancient food preservation techniques, and the winds that have shaped life on the lake for centuries.
You'll discover hidden gems like the picturesque Dosso di Lavedo peninsula, home to the magnificent Villa Balbianello where scenes from James Bond's Casino Royale
and Star Wars
were filmed. The tour ends at Saint Stephen's Church in Lenno, where local legend claims you might hear an oracle predicting your future. The tour ends at Saint Stephen's Church in Lenno, where according to legend, you might hear an oracle predicting your future.
On this 90-minute tour along Lake Como's western shore, you'll have a chance to:
- Learn about the ancient curse placed on Comacina Island and the fiery ritual still performed to ward off mysterious deaths
- Hear tales of the
Lariosauro,
Lake Como's own legendary monster said to lurk in its deep waters - Discover the traditional preparation of
Missoltini,
a fish preservation method dating back to Roman times - Walk along the ancient Strada Regina, a Roman road that once connected Milan to Switzerland
- Explore the area where scientists believe two massive tsunamis struck Lake Como centuries ago
- Visit the peninsula where filmmakers captured scenes for Hollywood blockbusters
- Learn about the seven witches who allegedly performed rituals on nearby mountains
- Uncover the mystery of the underwater bell that fishermen claim to hear on windy winter days
Follow your naturalist guide Loredana as she unveils Lake Como's invisible side through stories handed down through generations, revealing a landscape where history, legend, and natural beauty blend into an unforgettable experience.
Tour Producer
Tour Producer
Loredana Testini
Loredana Testini is an environmental hiking guide driven by a deep passion for sharing the authentic soul of Lombardy with curious and conscious travelers. Through her work, she invites people to slow down, observe, and truly connect with landscapes that are as diverse as they are breathtaking.
Born and raised in the embrace of northern Italy’s natural beauty, Loredana has cultivated an intimate knowledge of the Lombard territory. Her excursions unfold between the majestic peaks of the Alps and the shimmering waters of iconic lakes such as Lake Como. In every season, she reveals a land crowned by mountains and enriched by glacial lakes, where dramatic panoramas meet quiet forests, alpine meadows, and ancient paths shaped by history.
What makes Loredana’s guiding style unique is her attentive gaze: she highlights not only the scenic beauty but also the extraordinary biodiversity that thrives in Lombardy’s varied ecosystems. From rare alpine flora to the subtle traces of wildlife, she encourages to notice the intricate balance between nature and human presence.
For Loredana, guiding is more than leading a hike—it is storytelling through landscapes. With enthusiasm and authenticity, she transforms each journey into an immersive experience, allowing visitors to discover Lombardy not just as a destination, but as a living, vibrant territory waiting to be understood and cherished.
Preview Location
Preview Location
Location 17
The mysterious bell
But despite its calm waters, the bay hides a secret: a small Atlantis, an ancient church or maybe a small town. Fishermen says that on windy days, when Vento... Read More
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Major Landmarks
Major Landmarks
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Isola Comacina
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Ossuccio
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Villa Balbiano
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Lenno
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Villa Monastero (Tremezzina)
Getting There
Getting There
Route Overview
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Start locationSS340, 13, 22010 Ossuccio CO, Italy
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Total distance3km
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Final location22016 Lenno, Province of Como, Italy
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Distance back to start location2km
Directions to Starting Point
The starting point is at Ossuccio, Via Statale n. 7, near the zebra crossing right at the beginning of a cobblestone path leading downhill to the Church of Saints Giacomo and Filippo. You will notice the blue and yellow sign "Greenway".
If you go there by car, there is a free parking at via Statale 1, within 200 meters walk from the starting point. You can also park at Parking Greenway, on the opposite side of the road (pay parking).
You can also get there by bus C10 from Como - bus stop Ossuccio/Spurano. Check timetable [here](https://www.asfautolinee.it/en/)
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Tips
Tips
Places to stop along the way
Villa Balbianello: the gardens and interiors with their secret staircases are worth a visit
La Fabbrica del Gelato in Lenno, for a tasty ice cream
Best time of day
All day long, from September to June. Best in the morning hours during late spring and summer.
Precautions
Cobblestone paths require sports shoes. Bring a bottle of water, sunglasses, a hat and sunblock. You can find some water fountains along the way. Don't forget a snack or an energy bar. You can have a meal once in Lenno. The route is steep in a short section, but definitely doable.
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