Vezio Castle

For lovers of mystery, local legends and stunning panoramic views, Vezio Castle is an unforgettable destination. Located on a cape overlooking Varenna, during the Middle Ages its walls surrounded the picturesque village as far as the lake.

Today, the imposing fort dating back to Roman times can be reached by car or on foot. The closest area for parking is Vezio, then continue on foot, following the signs, or alternatively walk from Varenna along two trails, for about 30/40 minutes.  

There is an entry fee that allows you to visit the castle, the gardens, the basements dating back to the first World War, and the town walls. It is also possible to go up in the tower, which has a permanent exhibition of the Lariosaurus, and where you can also admire the fabulous all-round views of the Lake.

Vezio Castle welcomes its visitors with a charming, fairytale setting, with views over the lake that reveal the military history of watchtowers, and statues of ghosts dotted all along the way. It is said that the castle is infested with spirits, including one of noble origins: Queen Teodolinda. This Lombard noblewoman, who ordered the building of the castle and spent her remaining years in the neighbouring commune of Perledo, still walks through the rooms as a sign of her devout Christian faith.

For lovers of falconry, the castle is also home to a training centre for day and nocturnal birds of prey. The training sessions are held, weather permitting, in the Castle gardens, giving visitors the chance to see the different species close up and while they fly. Falconers are also on hand to tell the story of falconry, its modern-day use, the biology of the birds, and the training methods. Weather permitting, the birds can be seen on the days they will be flying, after which, they are placed in their night time shelters.

The scenographic tower on the lake 

Vezio Castle is not just a destination for history lovers, but also the ideal place for those seeking a thrilling adventure in nature. The trails all around it are in fact perfect for hikes and excursions by mountain bike. The tall, imposing tower has always been an authentic watch tower and today, it continues to watch over the lake. To reach the castle, from the centre of Varenna, it is necessary to take a path up through the cobbled streets and past vegetable and flower gardens before passing through the olive groves and woods for a 20-minute hike over an altitude of 160 metres. 

The climb is dotted with panoramic views, where it is possible to admire the lake and the mountains, and it is also populated with modern sculptures and art installations, such as the famous “white ladies”, plaster statues evoking the legends of ghosts that have always accompanied the castle.