Under the Pendula Stone: A Wild Walk Above Lake Como
A guided ramble through ancient erratics, medieval mysteries, and forested mule tracks above Lake Como
Mist sifts off Lake Como like a curtain as the ferry noses into Torno’s small dock. Cobblestones rise straight from the water’s edge, slipping into a tangle of mule paths that climb the hillside. The woods pull you in and the lake recedes, a silver sheet between trees. It’s quiet up here—quiet enough to hear the forest breathe, to notice how the breeze threads the beech leaves and how the ground, ribbed with old roots, remembers the weight of centuries. On this private outing with naturalist guide Cristina Rovelli, you follow the old Strada Regia—the royal road that once stitched Como to Bellagio—toward a trio of marvels carved by ice and time: the Avelli tombs, the hanging boulder called Pietra Pendula, and a constellation of glacial erratics the size of buses scattered like dice across the slope.
Trail Wisdom
Grip matters on cobbles
The Strada Regia’s stone steps can be slick when damp—wear lugged hiking shoes with solid traction.
Hydrate and refill smart
Carry at least 1.5 liters of water; top up at the fountain in Monte Piatto before continuing to Pietra Pendula.
Mind the monuments
Do not climb on the Avelli tombs or the Pendula Stone—their edges and supports are fragile cultural and geological features.
Time your transport
Check Como–Torno ferry and C30 bus schedules in advance; late-afternoon services can be limited outside peak season.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The quiet piazza at Monte Piatto near the small church—an ideal snack stop
- •A side spur from Strada Regia to a lake viewpoint above Torno with framed vistas of Como
Wildlife
Red squirrel, Roe deer
Conservation Note
These erratics and carved tombs are protected heritage—avoid touching or climbing on them and stay on signed paths to limit erosion around their bases.
The Strada Regia is an ancient mule route linking Como to Bellagio; nearby 'massi avelli' (rock tombs) are likely early medieval, carved into glacial erratics.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers and fresh green canopy, Cooler hiking temps
Challenges: Mud on shaded cobbles, Unpredictable showers
Arguably the best season: cool air, lively forests, and clear lake views. Carry a light shell for passing rain.
summer
Best for: Long daylight hours, Dense shade in the forest
Challenges: Humidity and heat, More crowds on weekends
Start early to beat heat and traffic. The woods stay shaded, but hydration and pace become key.
fall
Best for: Luminous foliage, Stable weather windows
Challenges: Shorter days, Leaf-litter hiding slick stones
Golden forests and crisp air make for relaxed miles. Watch footing on leaf-covered steps after rain.
winter
Best for: Quiet trails, Clear, dry vistas after cold fronts
Challenges: Icy cobbles and cold winds, Limited transport schedules
Feasible in fair spells with proper layers and traction. Always check ferry/bus times and trail conditions.
Photographer's Notes
Capture the best shots at the right moments and locations.
What to Bring
Lugged Hiking ShoesEssential
Cobbled mule tracks and slick forest stones require solid grip and ankle support.
Light Rain ShellEssential
Spring and shoulder-season showers roll in fast; a packable shell keeps you moving comfortably.
Collapsible Trekking Poles
Helpful on steep, uneven steps—especially for the descent back to Torno.
1.5–2L Hydration SystemEssential
Summer humidity and sustained climbs make steady hydration essential.
Common Questions
How long is the hike and what’s the elevation gain?
Plan for 5–7 hours on trail, covering roughly 8–12 km with 400–600 m of elevation gain, depending on the exact route and pace.
Is this suitable for families?
Active children aged 8+ who are comfortable with stone steps and uneven terrain typically do well; supervision is essential near the Avelli and Pietra Pendula.
Can I bring my dog?
Leashed dogs are generally permitted on these public trails; always keep them under control around cultural sites and village areas.
What if it rains?
The hike usually proceeds in light rain, but stones become slick. Severe weather may alter or postpone the outing—coordinate with the guide for updates.
How do I get to the trailhead?
Ferries and the C30 bus connect Como and Torno; limited parking is available in Torno’s upper lots. Many hikers start in Torno and loop via Monte Piatto.
What language is the tour in?
The listing does not specify guiding languages. Confirm language availability with the operator when booking.
What to Pack
Grippy hiking shoes for slick cobbles; 1.5–2L of water with a soft flask to refill in Monte Piatto; a light shell for sudden lake-effect showers; euros for a post-hike gelato or ferry ticket.
Did You Know
The Pietra Pendula is a classic glacial erratic above Torno, and the nearby 'massi avelli' are early medieval rock tombs carved into erratics—features unique to the Lake Como region’s geology and history.
Quick Travel Tips
Check Como–Torno ferry and C30 bus timetables before committing to a route; start early to enjoy quieter trails; avoid climbing on heritage stones—fines may apply; carry small cash for village cafés and fountains that aren’t card-friendly.
Local Flavor
Reward the walk with a lakeside espresso or gelato in Torno’s tiny harbor, then head to Como for polenta uncia or missoltini (sun-dried lake shad) with a crisp local white. Piazza Volta’s cafés are perfect for an aperitivo while ferries crease the water at dusk.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP) ~55 km, Milan Linate (LIN) ~70 km. Trailheads: Torno ferry dock or paths above Piazza Caronti; alternative access from Brunate via the funicular. Driving: ~15–20 minutes from Como to Torno. Cell service: Intermittent in the forest, good in villages. Permits: None required for day hiking; respect local heritage protections.
Sustainability Note
These forest trails and heritage stones are vulnerable to erosion and vandalism—stick to marked paths, never climb the boulders or tombs, and pack out all trash. Refill at public fountains to minimize single-use plastics.
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Under the Pendula Stone: A Wild Walk Above Lake Como
Explore Lake Como’s quieter side on a guided hike above Torno, where glacial boulders, medieval rock tombs, and the iconic Pietra Pendula share the forest with mule tracks and lake views. It’s a moderate, story-rich walk that blends natural history with old-world charm.
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