An easy hike off the beaten track, discovering Mandello’s hidden gems. From medieval towers to ancient churches, from river trails to panoramic olive groves, a journey through history, nature and local flavours.
We’ll meet at Mandello train station, easily reachable from Lecco, Varenna, Bellano, Lierna or Milan. A short walk through the town centre, past the iconic Moto Guzzi museum, will lead us to the trail along the Meria river, heading towards Rongio, a charming hillside hamlet.
In a quiet olive grove, Claudia will be waiting with an aperitif, served the Italian way: hay bales for seats, a glass of Prosecco or Rosso di Valtellina, craft beer from Lake Como, and a tasting of local cheese, bread and slinzega, all with a stunning lake view.
From Rongio, a gentle path through olive trees takes us to Maggiana, home to the tower where Frederick Barbarossa stayed in the 12th century.
Our final stop is the picturesque church of San Giorgio, perched on the rocks since the 13th century, before returning to Mandello station.
Programme
4:00 p.m. – Meeting at the entrance of Mandello Train Station
4:30 p.m. – Start of the hike along the Meria River
5:10 p.m. – Arrival at Rongio
5:30 p.m. – Aperitif in the olive groves
6:15 p.m. – Start of the walk towards Maggiana
7:30 p.m. – Arrival at San Giorgio Church
7:45 p.m. – Return to Mandello Train Station
