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This high variant of the Sentiero del Viandante links Lierna and Varenna over 15 km of steep singletrack, alpine pasture and cliff-top views. Expect long climbs to 952 m, rocky steps, cultural sites and a guided single-day route with public-transport options.
This high variant of the Sentiero del Viandante links Lierna and Varenna over 15 km of steep singletrack, alpine pasture and cliff-top views. Expect long climbs to 952 m, rocky steps, cultural sites and a guided single-day route with public-transport options.
A polished stone stairway gives way to a narrow dirt ribbon as you climb from the lakeshore; the sound of the ferry fades and the scent of chestnut and limestone fills the air. This Alta variant of the Sentiero del Viandante threads steeply from Lierna, rises through Val Brentalone to the cross at 650 m, and pushes on to Alpe di Mezzedo for a wide-open view over the center of Lake Como.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Trekkingsmile Di Nadia Lillia · Varenna, Lombardy
A polished stone stairway gives way to a narrow dirt ribbon as you climb from the lakeshore; the sound of the ferry fades and the scent of chestnut and limestone fills the air. This Alta variant of the Sentiero del Viandante threads steeply from Lierna, rises through Val Brentalone to the cross at 650 m, and pushes on to Alpe di Mezzedo for a wide-open view over the center of Lake Como.
Geology here is raw: folded calcareous cliffs and terraces carved by glacial remnants create sharp ridges and sudden drops. Cultural traces appear in shepherd huts, the ancient "giazzera" at Mezzedo and the stone church of S. Pietro in Ortanella, the trail's highest point at 952 m. Vezio's medieval castle watches the descent toward Varenna, where cobbled streets meet the water.
Expect 15 km of varied singletrack, exposed sections with loose rock, some stone steps and steady climbs—roughly 700–800 m of ascent from lake level. A licensed AIGAE guide typically leads the group and points out local history and land use: seasonal grazing, chestnut coppices and old alpine routes.
Practical notes: start early to avoid midday heat, carry 2–3 liters of water, and wear ankle-supporting boots. Public transport connects both endpoints, so a one-way itinerary is practical without a car. Weather can change quickly above 700 m—pack a light waterproof and warm layer. The route rewards effort with expansive lake views, small mountain chapels and the quiet of high pastures before the final, scenic descent into Varenna.
challenging.
7–8 hours.
Suitable for hikers with steady cardiovascular fitness and prior long day hikes; expect sustained climbs and uneven terrain.
The route is about 15 km with roughly 700–800 m of ascent to the highest point at 952 m; it’s best described as challenging for those not used to sustained uphill hiking.
The Sentiero del Viandante is generally waymarked, but some high-variant sections are rocky and narrow—following a guide or GPS track is recommended.
Yes—public buses and ferries connect Lierna and Varenna, making a one-way hike practical; check schedules for seasonal changes.
Alpe di Mezzedo and Ortanella have picnic spots and occasional small local facilities, but plan to bring lunch since services are limited on the ridge.
The route follows historic pastoral paths and medieval connections between lakeside villages and high alpine pastures, with stone huts and seasonal grazing evident along the way.
Stay on marked trails to limit erosion on fragile limestone slopes; local groups maintain waymarks and rely on visitors to carry out litter and respect grazing animals.
Trekkingsmile Di Nadia Lillia operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A polished stone stairway gives way to a narrow dirt ribbon as you climb from the lakeshore; the sound of the ferry fades and the scent of chestnut and limestone fills the air. This Alta variant of the Sentiero del Viandante threads steeply from Lierna, rises through Val Brentalone to the cross at 650 m, and pushes on to Alpe di Mezzedo for a wide-open view over the center of Lake Como.
A polished stone stairway gives way to a narrow dirt ribbon as you climb from the lakeshore; the sound of the ferry fades and the scent of chestnut and limestone fills the air. This Alta variant of the Sentiero del Viandante threads steeply from Lierna, rises through Val Brentalone to the cross at 650 m, and pushes on to Alpe di Mezzedo for a wide-open view over the center of Lake Como.
Geology here is raw: folded calcareous cliffs and terraces carved by glacial remnants create sharp ridges and sudden drops. Cultural traces appear in shepherd huts, the ancient "giazzera" at Mezzedo and the stone church of S. Pietro in Ortanella, the trail's highest point at 952 m. Vezio's medieval castle watches the descent toward Varenna, where cobbled streets meet the water.
Expect 15 km of varied singletrack, exposed sections with loose rock, some stone steps and steady climbs—roughly 700–800 m of ascent from lake level. A licensed AIGAE guide typically leads the group and points out local history and land use: seasonal grazing, chestnut coppices and old alpine routes.
Practical notes: start early to avoid midday heat, carry 2–3 liters of water, and wear ankle-supporting boots. Public transport connects both endpoints, so a one-way itinerary is practical without a car. Weather can change quickly above 700 m—pack a light waterproof and warm layer. The route rewards effort with expansive lake views, small mountain chapels and the quiet of high pastures before the final, scenic descent into Varenna.