Valmadrera

A gem of history and culture, a haven for biodiversity

With a long history and a natural heritage of exceptional value, Valmadrera is a true gem nestled between lake and mountains—and a paradise for outdoor lovers. Since the 18th century, its story has been shaped by work and by the skills of many of Lombardy’s traditional trades. From ironworking and silk production to kilns and pastoral farming, over the centuries the town has been sustained by a hardworking, close-knit community rooted in traditions and know-how whose traces can still be found today.

With its iconic Parè Bay and picturesque harbour, ancient churches and sanctuaries, and trails opening onto panoramic viewpoints with spectacular views over the lake and surrounding mountains, Valmadrera is an ideal destination for hiking and family days out.

Parè Bay

Located north of the town at the foot of Mount Moregallo, the bay is crossed by the final stretch of the Rio Torto before it flows into Lake Como. Here you can enjoy leisurely walks, taste local specialities while taking in views of the lake, visit Parco della Rocca and its panoramic promontory, take part in outdoor sports and enjoy live music at the many events held throughout the year.

As you walk between the lake and the mountains, you will come across traces of the old washhouses by the pier and beside the small Madonna chapel, not far from the Church of Parè; according to local tradition, the water from this spring has healing properties. The large meadow facing the bay is freely accessible, and from here you can board the traditional Lecco–Bellagio boat service, which connects some of the most picturesque villages along the lake. A different way to admire the landscape from a unique perspective!

Baia di Parè

Places of faith and culture

Among the town’s most important landmarks is the Sanctuary of San Martino, a historic parish church that preserves magnificent Renaissance frescoes and a beautiful late-Gothic image of the Madonna del Latte. Then there is the parish church of Sant’Antonio Abate, whose bell tower rises to over 90 metres, making it one of the tallest in Italy. Next door stands the 15th-century Fatebenefratelli Cultural Centre, together with its Botanical Garden, now home to an extensive collection of medicinal and aromatic herbs as well as protected native plant species. This architectural complex in the heart of the town bears witness to an important chapter in Valmadrera’s history: at the end of the 17th century, friars of the Hospitaller Order of St John of God, known as the Fatebenefratelli, settled here and founded a hospice for the sick and a small pharmaceutical laboratory, together with a physic garden where they grew medicinal plants used to treat their patients. This was the origin of today’s Botanical Garden, which now plays an active role in preserving Lombardy’s biodiversity.

Valmadrera is also home to several historic villas, including Villa Gavazzi, with its impressive avenue of lime trees, private chapel, landscaped park and greenhouse, as well as the former silk mill built behind the residence to bring together the elegance of the owners’ home and the activities of a working industrial site.

Fatebenefratelli Cultural Centre and “Riccardo Villa” Botanical Garden

Places to meet and enjoy local life

Parè harbour is not only a favourite summer destination but also a lively gathering place, thanks to its sailing clubs offering courses in sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and other outdoor activities. The lakefront comes alive throughout the year with cultural events, festivals and other activities. Beside the Fatebenefratelli Cultural Centre, one of the main hubs of local life, is the municipal library—another welcoming community space hosting cultural initiatives, storytelling sessions for children, exhibitions and displays. Within easy reach of Parè, the Rio Torto Sports Centre is a wonderful green oasis for walks and outdoor leisure, as well as the ideal place to enjoy sport either outdoors or at its dedicated facilities for football, tennis and padel. Basketball fans should not miss the court created by Nine The Paint, entirely dedicated to legendary NBA player Kobe Bryant.

Nature and landscape

From easy circular walks with panoramic views to more challenging equipped trails, through dramatic gorges, natural pools and waterfalls, Valmadrera offers countless ways to experience the mountains at different levels of difficulty.

Along the way, through woods and mountain paths, you can see erratic boulders—huge blocks of rock transported by glaciers—such as Sasso di Preguda, beside which stands a 19th-century chapel. The Piana di San Tomaso, a natural terrace overlooking the lakes and Brianza, can be reached on a gentle walk suitable for everyone; more experienced hikers can continue towards the Corno Rat via ferrata, reach Rifugio SEV, a mountain hut at Pianezzo, or venture as far as the Corni di Canzo. If adventure is your thing, don’t miss the Sentiero delle Vasche, a spectacular trail through the gorge carved by the Inferno stream, among natural pools, waterfalls and river crossings.

Together with Corno Birone and Mount Rai, Mount Moregallo is the mountain that best symbolises Valmadrera. Its summit, reached via a demanding hiking route, rewards you with spectacular views over Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.