Are you the type of person who, looking at the tallest mountains, can’t help but wonder, “What would it be like up there right now?” Then it’s time to turn that thought into an experience: reach the peaks and carry home unforgettable views and memories.
Monte Berlinghera, rising 1,930 meters above Gera Lario, offers breathtaking views of Lake Como, the Valchiavenna, the Valtellina, and on clear days, even the Monte Rosa and Bernina. The hike starts from the picturesque village of San Bartolomeo, winding through beech forests, alpine pastures, and panoramic clearings, offering spots perfect for a pause, a photo, or simply breathing in the fresh mountain air. The small San Bartolomeo Chapel, perched on a promontory, adds a touch of history and charm to the trail. In summer the meadows bloom with color, while in autumn the forests turn red and gold, making the summit a place of peace and beauty, ideal from May to October.
Monte Crocione, above Menaggio, at 1,168 meters, dominates the central lake and provides spectacular views of Bellagio, Varenna, the two arms of the Lario, the Grigne, Monte Legnone, and the peaks of the Valtellina. The trail begins from Breglia, winding through beech and chestnut woods, alternating gentle slopes with steeper stretches; the effort of the climb is richly rewarded with breathtaking scenery and a profound sense of tranquility.
Monte Legnone, at 2,609 meters, is the highest peak in the province of Lecco and one of the most imposing mountains of northern Lake Como. From Pescegallo or Pian di Gembro, the trail crosses forests, pastures, and rocky sections, with some steep stretches requiring experience and caution. From the summit, marked by a cross and offering 360-degree views, you can see the entire northern branch of the lake, the Valtellina, and on clear days, the Orobie Alps and the Bernina.
Monte Legnoncino, the “little Legnone,” rises to 1,711 meters and offers spectacular views of the lake, the surrounding valleys, and the Legnone massif. From Rifugio Roccoli Lorla, the trail follows the historic Linea Cadorna military path, crossing chestnut, beech, and larch forests and panoramic clearings; the hike, while requiring only basic mountain experience, rewards hikers with stunning scenery and a fascinating encounter with history.
Pizzo di Gino, between San Nazzaro and Garzeno, at 2,245 meters, dominates the northern branch of the lake, offering 360-degree views of the Alps and the Lombard valleys. The hike, varied and challenging, passes through forests, pastures, and rocky sections, requiring experience and caution, but the summit rewards with unforgettable emotions: an intense day surrounded by untouched nature, grand landscapes, and the feeling of isolation typical of high-altitude peaks, far from the busiest trails.
As you ascend these summits, amidst breathtaking views and endless silence, you’ll discover that every step brings you closer not only to the peak, but also to an emotion that will stay with you forever.
