Greenway del Lago di Como (Cernobbio–Colonno Stretch)
The Greenway del Lago di Como is a 10-kilometre signed walking route along the western shore that threads through olive groves, medieval hamlets and lakeside gardens between Colonno and Cernobbio — and the southern section starting in Cernobbio is the most varied and rewarding stretch of the whole trail. Flat, car-free and endlessly scenic, it is the best way to see the lake at walking pace.
The route from Cernobbio
The trail begins at Cernobbio's ferry landing and immediately passes the gates of Villa d'Este before continuing north through the hamlet of Moltrasio — birthplace of composer Vincenzo Bellini's patron — and on through Laglio, where George Clooney's Villa Oleandra sits behind high walls above the path. The route is marked with green signage throughout.
Along the way you pass through working terraced gardens still producing lemons, figs and olives, cross stone bridges over rushing mountain streams and dip through the narrow caruggi (lanes) of villages that have changed little since the 18th century. The path is well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels.
Practical details and highlights
The full Cernobbio-to-Colonno walk takes approximately 3–4 hours at a leisurely pace. Most walkers take the ferry back from one of the intermediate stops — Moltrasio, Laglio or Carate Urio all have Navigazione Laghi ferry piers, making it easy to cut the walk short or extend it as mood dictates.
Spring (April–May) is the finest season: wisteria drapes the garden walls, the lake is glassy and the mountains still carry snow. Pack a picnic from the Saturday market and stop at one of the stone benches above Laglio for a lunch with arguably the best view on the entire western shore.
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