Sentiero del Viandante (“The Wayfarer’s Path”)

The Sentiero del Viandante (the Wayfarer’s Path) is the most famous and scenic section of the Vie del Viandante, a network of twelve international historic paths stretching approximately 220 km and connecting the San Bernardino Pass in Switzerland to Milan. While the “Vie” represent the overall framework of several routes of European importance (such as the Via Spluga or the Via Francisca), the Sentiero del Viandante specifically refers to the 70 km trail along the eastern shore of Lake Como. This ancient mule track, suspended between the waters of the Lario and the mountains, winds its way from Lecco to Sorico.

A thousand-year historical legacy: from the Romans to Napoleon

The roots of this path are ancient, dating back to the Roman era, although it does not possess the typical structure of a consular road. Over the centuries, the trail has taken on various names and functions, such as the Via Ducale or Via Regia in the 18th century, when it became the main link between Milan and the northern borders of the Duchy, passing the Forte di Fuentes (now in the territory of Colico). As early as the 15th century, the Dukes of Milan suggested this route as a safe path for pilgrims to avoid the plague epidemics affecting other areas. During the Napoleonic era, the track was further enhanced with structural improvements to permanently connect Milan to the Valtellina, earning the name Strada Napoleona. After being partially forgotten in the 19th century due to the new military road to the Stelvio, the trail was finally rediscovered and restored for tourism in 1992.

A mid-slope landscape of villages and nature

The Sentiero del Viandante is a mid-slope itinerary offering spectacular views of the lake through a landscape characterised by historic villages, rural architecture, and ancient agricultural traditions. Walking along its stages, you are immersed in clusters of stone houses, old mills, castles, and silent country churches, passing through charming locations such as Varenna, Bellano, Mandello del Lario, and the hamlet of Corenno Plinio. A distinctive feature is the constant presence of terraced vineyards and olive groves, a testament to the unbreakable bond between man and the land, favoured by the mild climate.

Sustainable logistics: train and ferry

What makes this one of the most accessible routes in Lombardy is its perfect integration with public transport and navigation. Thanks to the Lecco-Colico-Sondrio railway, the trail frequently intersects with stations, allowing hikers to walk a single stage at a time and easily return to their starting point by train. Alternatively, the eastern shore offers seven landings served by the Lake Como ferry network, providing the opportunity to combine hiking with a scenic crossing over the water.

The stages of the trail

The complete itinerary is currently divided into the following official stages, which can be travelled in both directions:

Stage 01 – From Sorico to Colico

Stage 02 – From Colico to Dorio

Stage 03 – From Dorio to Dervio

Stage 04 – From Dervio to Bellano

Stage 05 – From Bellano to Varenna

Stage 06 – From Varenna to Lierna

Stage 07 – From Lierna to Abbadia Lariana

Stage 08 – From Abbadia Lariana to Lecco

For those wishing to keep a memento of their journey, it is possible to request the Wayfarer’s Passport (Passaporto del Viandante) to collect stamps at authorised points along the route. The trail is generally accessible all year round, except during periods of snow at low altitudes.