Sentiero del Viandante: Como to Abbadia Lariana
The Sentiero del Viandante is a 45-kilometre historic footpath that traces the eastern shore of Lake Como along mule tracks, Roman roads and medieval village lanes — and the southern stretch from Como to Abbadia Lariana is the most accessible, most dramatic and most rewarding day-hike on the lake.
The Route and What You'll See
Starting from the Como lakefront, the path climbs quickly into terraced olive groves and chestnut woods above the shore, passing through the villages of Torno, Careno and Nesso — each a cluster of grey-stone houses tumbling toward the water with a Romanesque church at its centre. The village of Nesso is home to the Orrido di Nesso, a dramatic gorge where a mountain stream drops in twin waterfalls into a narrow rock chasm just metres from the main path.
The views throughout are consistently spectacular: the lake narrows and deepens as you head north, and the far shore's villas and gardens look like a painted backdrop. The path is well-waymarked with red-and-white CAI trail markers and is mostly clear underfoot, though some sections involve stone steps and exposed traverses that require care.
Practicalities for the Day Hike
The full Como–Abbadia Lariana section is approximately 18 kilometres and takes four to five hours at a comfortable pace with stops. Elevation gain is around 600 metres in total, spread across several ascents and descents rather than one brutal climb — manageable for any reasonably fit walker.
Return to Como by ferry or regional train from Abbadia Lariana station. Carry water and a packed lunch as food options are limited between villages; the bar in Torno is a reliable mid-morning coffee stop. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the best conditions — summer heat on south-facing slopes can be punishing.
Sentiero del Viandante: Como to Abbadia Lariana on video
More of Como
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Como →
