Vezio Castle and the Sentiero del Viandante Path: guided trek from Varenna to Bellano
An intermediate-altitude route offering some of the most scenic views of Lake Como, along the ancient Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarers Path), once a connecting trail between lakeside villages. Starting from the village of Varennareachable by ferry from Bellagioyou climb up to Vezio Castle, where the panoramic view is enchanting. The hike continues north through chestnut woods, dry stone walls, and cultivated terraces, with sweeping vistas over the lake. Upon arrival in Bellano, there's the option to visit the Orrido, a spectacular gorge carved into the rock and protected as part of the UNESCO MAB network. Return to Varenna by train.
Level: Intermediate
Distance: 6 km
Elevation gain/loss: +350 m / -350 m
Hiking time: About 2.5 hours
Total experience duration: 6 hours
Meeting point: Varenna ferry terminal
Start time: 9:00 AM
Estimated return to Varenna: Around 4:00 PM
Lunch: Not provided bring your own packed lunch
Post-hike: A small aperitivo with local cured meats offered by the guides
Number of participants: min 4, max 12
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Guided hike along the Sentiero del Viandante (Varenna to Bellano) with a certified professional from the Lombardy Alpine Guides Association
- Small aperitivo with cured meats at the end of the hike
- Logistical support for the return train ride from Bellano to Varenna (ticket not included)
- Assistance with the return to Bellagio (ticket not included)
NOT INCLUDED
- Packed lunch (please bring your own)
- Entry ticket to Vezio Castle
- Entry ticket to the Bellano Gorge (Orrido di Bellano)
- Ferry and train tickets
GOOD TO KNOW
- Meeting point is at the ferry terminal in Varenna
- Route: Varenna to Bellano with a professional guide from the Lombardy Alpine Guides Association
WHAT TO BRING
ESSENTIAL:
Hiking boots
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
Comfortable, layered clothing
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Lightweight backpack
At least 1 litre of water
Packed lunch
Hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen
Trekking poles
A change of dry clothes (can be left in the car)
BOOKING POLICIES
Booking is mandatory within 24 hours prior to the start of the activity.
Full prepayment by credit card is required.
The activity will be confirmed with a minimum of 4 participants; otherwise, the full amount will be refunded.
CANCELLATION POLICIES
CANCELLATION BY THE CLIENT
Up to 3 days before the event: full refund (minus any payment method fees).
Within 3 days of the event: 100% penalty (no refund).
Cancellations must be communicated via email at info@bellagiotreeb.it or WhatsApp at +39 393.98.63.525, no later than 24:00 of the specified deadline.
Cancellation is considered valid only after our confirmation.
CANCELLATION BY THE ORGANIZER
In case of force majeure (e.g., severe weather conditions or safety issues), the activity may be rescheduled to a new date or fully refunded.
WEATHER CONDITIONS
Activities will still take place in the event of overcast skies or light rain. In case of severe weather (heavy rain, thunderstorms, weather alerts), the guide may cancel or modify the activity for safety reasons. In such cases, a new date will be proposed or a full refund will be offered.
Costs
Notes
- Know Before You Go: Meeting point: Varenna ferry terminal
Hike from Varenna to Bellano with a professional guide (AMM Lombardy Alpine Guides Association)
What to bring in your backpack
MANDATORY:
Hiking boots
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Comfortable, layered clothing
Waterproof/windproof jacket
Lightweight backpack
Water (at least 1 liter)
Packed lunch
Hat, sunglasses
Sunscreen
Trekking poles
Optional dry change of clothes to leave in the car
