2 Days Trekking – Il Sentiero del Viandante: from Varenna to Colico

The best part of this two-day trek is the way it leaves Lake Como’s postcard towns behind and follows an old footpath through medieval castles, chestnut woods, rural villages, and rocky valleys. You get the lake views, but you also see the quieter inland side of eastern Lake Como.

I like the private format, with a maximum of 10 people, and I like having Nadia Lillia as a guide. Her care with weather and walking ability matters on a path that can turn steep. The chance to visit Castello di Vezio and walk the suspended platforms of Orrido di Bellano adds variety beyond a standard day hike.

The main drawback is that meals and hotel accommodation are not included, and the ticket information is not fully consistent. Confirm exactly what is covered before paying, especially for Castello di Vezio and Orrido di Bellano.

Key points to know before you book

• Varenna to Colico on an ancient route: This is a point-to-point walk through the eastern side of Lake Como, not a simple lakeside stroll.
• Nadia Lillia leads the hike: The licensed nature guide adjusts the outing to weather and the group’s walking ability.
• Castello di Vezio and Orrido di Bellano: Medieval defenses and a dramatic river gorge give the first day two clear highlights.
• Steep, rocky walking: Expect old mule tracks, paths carved into rock, wooded climbs, and uneven ground.
• Small private group: The maximum is 10 people, which allows more personal attention than a large coach tour.
• You arrange food and lodging: Restaurant meals, packed lunches, and a hotel are optional extras at your own cost.

Why the Sentiero del Viandante makes a fine Lake Como hike

The Sentiero del Viandante, or Wayfarer’s Path, links villages along Lake Como’s eastern shore. It is an old route shaped by practical travel, not modern tourism. Parts run through woods and gardens, while others use stone paths, mule tracks, and stretches of living rock.

That mix is what makes this trek worthwhile. You are not simply walking from one viewpoint to the next. You pass through places that once relied on footpaths for local travel, farming, defense, and trade. The route also gives you changing views of the lake, so the scenery does not feel like the same picture repeated for two days.

This is a private outing rather than a fixed large-group walk. With no more than 10 people, Nadia can pay attention to pace and footing. That is especially useful here because the route includes steep portions and does not suit every casual walker.

The tour is described as lasting about two days, but the supplied schedule does not give total walking distances, daily hiking hours, or a detailed hotel plan. Ask for those details before booking. They will tell you far more about the physical demand than the two-day label alone.

Day one begins above Varenna at Castello di Vezio

The starting point is on Via Venini in Varenna. The first stop is Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle above the lake with wide views across Lake Como.

The castle’s position explains its purpose. It was built for control and defense, and from its high setting you can understand why a lookout here mattered. The site is also tied to the story of Lombard Queen Teodolinda, who is said to have fallen in love with the area.

You have about 45 minutes at Castello di Vezio. That is enough for a focused visit and some time to take in the view, but not a long, unhurried exploration. The castle is a strong opening because it gives you both history and orientation. You see the lake from above before the trail carries you into woods, valleys, and villages.

The visit is also a reminder that this is not a flat promenade. Starting near a castle above Varenna puts you into the character of the route right away. Wear shoes with good grip, and do not treat the first section as a warm-up walk through town.

There is conflicting information about the entrance fee. The highlights and itinerary indicate admission to Castello di Vezio, while the inclusions list only the licensed nature guide and separately says the castle ticket is not included. Confirm this with Trekkingsmile Di Nadia Lillia before departure.

Orrido di Bellano brings water, rock, and suspended walkways

The first day continues to Orrido di Bellano, a natural canyon cut by the Pioverna River. Here, you cross suspended walkways fixed to the rock wall above the rushing water.

This is a very different setting from the castle. At Vezio, the appeal is the high view and medieval defenses. At Bellano, you are close to the force of the river, with rock walls rising around the gorge. The listed visit lasts about 30 minutes, so expect a short, concentrated stop rather than a long canyon hike.

The walkways are a memorable feature, but they may not suit anyone uneasy with heights or exposed platforms. The supplied information does not give further details about accessibility or exact walkway conditions, so ask if that is a concern.

From Bellano, the route continues toward Dervio, passing the Sanctuary of Lezzeno and the area of Pendaglio. You then move through woods, gardens, shady valleys, and paths worn into rock by centuries of sledges. That detail gives the walk a strong local feel. You are following old lines of movement, not just a trail built for sightseeing.

The route also promises repeated lake views, but do not expect every section to be open and panoramic. Forests and shaded valleys are part of the appeal. They provide relief from sun and give the day a more varied rhythm, but they also mean the lake may disappear from view for stretches.

The ticket details for Orrido di Bellano also need checking. The itinerary says admission is included, while the not-included section lists the Orrido ticket as an extra. Treat this as an item to confirm rather than assuming it is covered by the $289.40 price.

Day two follows medieval Dervio toward Corenno and Dorio

The second day begins with Torre di Orezia and the castle in Dervio. The description presents this area as a place where the medieval character remains visible. The listed visit lasts about 30 minutes.

A short stop here works well after the longer first day. You get another historic site without turning the trip into a castle tour. Torre di Orezia also adds context to the defensive role of these settlements, showing how the route connected places that watched over the lake and surrounding valleys.

The itinerary says admission to Torre di Orezia is included. Since the general inclusion list names only the guide, confirm the entrance arrangements when you book.

From Dervio, the path continues toward Corenno and Dorio, including the old parish church of San Giorgio. The route then climbs toward Mondonico, described as the original inhabited center of Dorio. This is one of the more demanding parts of the walk, with an uphill passage through chestnut woods.

The climb leads to the chapel of S. Rocco and a fine viewpoint over Lake Como. The old mule track is carved into the rock, and the route passes broom, heather, and other shrubs. This section sounds like the heart of the second day: less about a single attraction and more about the steady pleasure of walking an old mountain route with the lake appearing below.

You should expect uneven footing and sustained uphill effort here. The path may be beautiful, but it is not a gentle stroll. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and anyone with knee, balance, or walking concerns should discuss the route with Nadia before booking.

Rural villages give the final stretch its character

After the chapel and viewpoint, the route passes through Perdonasco, Sparese, and Posallo. These small rural settlements add a human scale to the trek.

You may find this part more rewarding than a famous viewpoint because the villages show how people lived along the route. The descriptions point to a succession of small rural hamlets rather than major attractions. That means you should come ready to notice stone buildings, old paths, gardens, and the shape of the villages themselves.

The supplied meeting information needs clarification here. The tour is described as traveling from Varenna to Colico, but the end point is also listed as the activity ending back at the meeting point in Varenna. Those details do not fully agree. Ask whether the tour finishes in Colico, returns to Varenna, or requires separate transport from the final walking point.

That question matters. A point-to-point hike affects where you sleep, where you leave luggage, and how you return to your car or train. Do not book your hotel or onward connection until the final endpoint is confirmed.

What the $289.40 price really covers

At $289.40 per person, this tour’s value depends mainly on how much you want a private guide rather than a self-guided route.

The price gives you a licensed nature hiking guide and a small group capped at 10 people. You also receive guided visits to the main historic and natural sights, although the entrance-fee details need confirmation. For someone who wants help with route finding, local context, weather decisions, and pacing, that can be worthwhile.

The price does not cover lunch, a packed lunch, or hotel accommodation. You can choose a typical restaurant or arrange a packed lunch with local products, but those costs are extra. Lodging is also your responsibility.

That arrangement gives you flexibility, but it means the advertised price is not the full cost of the two days. Add food, accommodation, and any entrance tickets that are not included. Also budget for transport if the actual final point differs from the listed meeting point.

I would ask these questions before booking:

• How many walking hours and kilometers are planned each day?
• Where does the first day end?
• Where should you book accommodation?
• Does the trek finish in Colico or return to Varenna?
• Are Castello di Vezio and Orrido di Bellano tickets included?
• Is transport between trail sections included?
• Can the guide arrange a restaurant meal or packed lunch?

Clear answers will make it easier to judge the true value.

Nadia’s guiding style matters on this route

Nadia Lillia is the named guide and the experience provider is Trekkingsmile Di Nadia Lillia. The strongest praise attached to this outing centers on her preparation, reliability, and attention to the group.

That matters more here than a memorized list of facts. The route can be steep, the weather can change, and an old path demands attention. A guide who watches the forecast and adapts to walking ability can make the day safer and more enjoyable.

The information also describes Nadia as prepared and serious, with repeat clients choosing her for more than one excursion. I would still keep expectations practical. A guide can adjust pace and decisions, but she cannot turn a mountain trail into an easy walk. You remain responsible for arriving fit, properly shod, and ready for two days outdoors.

Service animals are allowed, and the route is near public transportation. If you plan to bring a dog, confirm the full trail and attraction rules in advance, since permission for a service animal does not automatically answer every question about ordinary pets.

What to pack for two days on the old mule tracks

You need sturdy walking shoes with good traction. The path includes steep ground, rock-cut sections, forest trails, and old mule tracks, so smooth-soled sneakers are a poor choice.

Bring water, sun protection, and a light rain layer. The tour requires good weather, but conditions can change during a mountain walk. A small backpack is more useful than a large suitcase, especially if the route is point-to-point.

Your lunch plan deserves attention. You can eat at a typical restaurant or arrange a packed lunch with local products, but neither option is included. Ask Nadia about timing and locations before the start so you are not forced into an inconvenient choice.

Also carry a charged phone. The ticket is mobile, and you may need your phone for booking details or contact with the guide. Keep the confirmation available even if the guide handles the practical arrangements.

Who will enjoy this trek most

I would recommend this tour to people who want active Lake Como days with local scenery, rather than a sightseeing schedule built around boats and short town visits.

It suits you if you enjoy:

• Moderate hiking with steep sections
• Old paths and rural settlements
• Medieval towers and castles
• Forest shade mixed with lake viewpoints
• A small private group
• A guide who can adjust the pace

It is less suitable if you want a flat walk, included meals, arranged hotel nights, or a fully fixed transport plan. It may also be a poor match if you dislike suspended walkways, exposed rock paths, or uphill walking.

The four published ratings average 5 out of 5, and the strongest praise focuses on the beautiful route and Nadia’s care. That is encouraging, but the practical details still matter more than the score. The route’s difficulty, extra costs, and endpoint should guide your decision.

Should you book the Varenna to Colico trek?

Book it if you want to see Lake Como on foot and value a personal guide who can manage weather, pace, and route details. Castello di Vezio, Orrido di Bellano, Torre di Orezia, Corenno, Dorio, and the rural hamlets give the two days a good mix of nature and local history.

Before committing, get written confirmation of the walking distance, daily schedule, accommodation location, final endpoint, and entrance fees. At $289.40 per person, the tour can be a good buy for guided access to a demanding and varied route, but the added costs may change the total substantially.

If you are fit, prepared for steep ground, and happy to arrange your own meals and lodging, this is a strong choice. If you want an easy Lake Como outing, choose a shorter walk instead.

FAQ

Where does the trek start?

It starts at Via Venini, 112, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy.

How long does the experience last?

The trek lasts approximately two days.

Does the tour travel from Varenna to Colico?

The experience is described as a trek from Varenna to Colico, but the end information also says it ends back at the meeting point. Confirm the final endpoint with the provider before booking.

Who guides the hike?

The hike is led by licensed nature hiking guide Nadia Lillia.

How many people can join the tour?

The activity has a maximum of 10 travelers.

Are meals included?

No. You can choose a typical restaurant lunch or a packed lunch with local products, but meals are at your own expense.

Is hotel accommodation included?

No. Hotel accommodation is not included.

Are entrance tickets included?

The details conflict. The itinerary says admission is included for Castello di Vezio and Orrido di Bellano, while the not-included section lists those tickets as extra. Confirm before booking. Admission to Torre di Orezia is described as included.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes, if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded. Poor weather or failure to meet the minimum number of participants may lead to a new date or a full refund.