This deeply interesting natural hike climbs from the historic lakeside village of Brienno at 203 m (666 ft) to the high pastures of Pian d'Erba at 1,110 m (3,641 ft) before reaching the panoramic summit of Monte Comana at 1,210 m (3,970 ft). The loop excursion requires a good level of physical fitness and reliable navigation skills. It follows the educational Botanico path (Trail 1) up to Pian d'Erba and then seamlessly merges with the famous Espressioni path (Trail of Expressions) toward the very top of the mountain. The initial climb is quite challenging up until you reach the stone ruins of Pra de la Curt at 985 m (3,231 ft), where a sharp right turn leads onto a comfortable, scenic stretch halfway up the hillside. We highly recommend maximum caution along the cliffs and broken-up trail stretches, carrying a generous supply of water, wearing proper trekking shoes, and rescheduling the trip in case of inclement weather.
Just a few steps from the Brienno Town Hall, we find the official directions for the Botanical Path and Pian d'Erba. We begin our ascent by climbing a steep stairway that winds between local houses, terraced gardens, and open fields. Along the route, we immediately encounter trees marked with their botanical names; approximately 60 yellow educational signs are placed along this stretch to guide and inform hikers. Upon reaching Giumanell at 327 m (1,072 ft), we follow a brief, flat section leading to the historic chapel of Sant'Antonio, where we turn right to resume climbing up traditional stone steps. It is a rigorous uphill push, and the botanical plaques provide an excellent excuse to pause and catch your breath. After a long stretch through the canopy, we arrive at the spectacular Scala Santa at 715 m (2,345 ft), an incredible historic stone staircase hand-built back when these steep mountain woods were actively cultivated terraces.
From the historic ruins of Costa Tuasa at 730 m (2,395 ft), we proceed along a gentle incline to reach the fresh water Turbola spring at 760 m (2,493 ft) before tackling the next steady climb to the ruins of Pra de la Curt. Past these ancient stone walls, we take care not to miss the right turn, bending north to walk halfway up the hillside through a magnificent beech forest until encountering the Sentiero delle Espressioni at Pian d'Erba. This unique trail showcases amazing wooden sculptures dedicated to historical border smuggling—an illegal but widespread survival activity practiced throughout these valleys during the last century. Leaving the woods behind, we emerge onto a spectacular natural balcony with wide-open views of the lake and surrounding mountains. We walk directly above the welcoming Agriturismo dell'Alpe and, with one last physical push, reach the panoramic summit of Monte Comana at 1,210 m (3,970 ft) to enjoy a truly world-class viewpoint.
Mount Colmegnone Scenic loop
A stunning scenic hike that starts at Germanello di Laglio (270 m / 885 ft) and climbs to Mount Colmegnone (1,383 m / 4,537 ft) passing through the Monti di Germanello.
Nature Reserve & History
Experience breathtaking views over the Pian di Spagna nature reserve and Lake Mezzola. This legendary trail leads to a 10th-century Romanesque gem.
The Wayfarer’s Trail (Sentiero del Viandante) travels halfway up the eastern part of Lake Como, with the journey beginning in Abbadia Lariana and ending in Morbegno, to make the hike easier, the route is divided into six stages.
The hike along the Strada Regia is not particularly difficult and is highly doable at any time of the year, though it is best to avoid the hottest days of summer and snow in the winter, in this guide, we have divided the route into three stages.
The trek along the ridge kicks off from Brunate and ends in Bellagio, though it can easily be traversed in the opposite direction without problems. The total distance is about 37 kilometers (23 miles), to roughly 8 to 10 hours of walking.
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Brienno to Mount Comana
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