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Mount Barro (922 m / 3,025 ft)

Malgrate to Mount Barro Loop Hike (Panoramic View of Lake Annone)

Malgrate to Mount Barro and the Archaeological Park

  • Type: Loop
  • Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
  • Elevation gain: 750 m / 2,460 ft ↑
  • Duration: 4h 45m
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • GPX track: Available

The Roman Archaeological Park: Trailhead at Malgrate (Parking in Via Pian Sciresa)

Discover Mount Barro with this scenic trail winding from Malgrate through the Regional Natural Park, offering the chance to explore the fascinating Archaeological Park at Piani di Barra (610 m / 2,000 ft). The hike begins at the public parking area on Via Pian Sciresa in Malgrate, which can also be reached by taking the regional train to the Valmadrera station (operated by Trenord) or by using the local Linee Lecco bus service. Please note that the final rocky scramble to the actual summit of Mount Barro is recommended for experienced hikers only. For all others, we highly suggest turning left upon reaching the mountain pass at Sella della Pila (787 m / 2,582 ft) and following the gentler path that skirts around the peak until you safely reach Sella dei Trovanti (800 m / 2,625 ft). While there are a few water fountains along the route, we recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, and wearing proper hiking shoes.

Climbing the Sentiero di Mezzo to Mount San Michele

From the parking area, we begin the steady climb toward Pian Sciresa (420 m / 1,378 ft). Near the mountain hut, turn left to skirt the open plateau and follow the "Sentiero di Mezzo" (Trail No. 301), hiking for a long, comfortable stretch over relatively level ground. Upon reaching a trailside water fountain, turn right and follow the signs for the summit ("Vetta" — Trail No. 305) to begin the steep, direct ascent toward Mount San Michele, also known as the Third Peak. You will definitely feel the incline here, with a few challenging sections where your hands will be essential for balance; however, behind you, stunning panoramic views of Lakes Garlate, Olginate, Annone, and Pusiano will open up. Once you conquer the summit of Mount San Michele (771 m / 2,530 ft), the trail continues along the ridge with a scenic series of ups and downs that lead you through the other two peaks to Sella della Pila.

Conquering Mount Barro and the Late Roman Empire Ruins

At the fork, less experienced hikers should turn left to comfortably skirt the peak, while those continuing straight must proceed with maximum caution to scramble up two exposed rocky outcrops to reach the true summit of Mount Barro (922 m / 3,025 ft). After taking in the breathtaking views, carefully descend the western slope to Sella dei Trovanti and head toward the historic Church of Santa Maria and the Eremo Archaeological Museum. After a relaxing break at the spring, enter the Archaeological Park to explore the ruins of an ancient fortified settlement dating back to the Late Roman Empire (5th–6th century AD). To wrap up this stunning loop, follow the trail signs for Malgrate through a beautiful wooded section, eventually reaching the Pian Sciresa mountain hut at 440 m (1,444 ft) and returning to your starting point.

The Upcoming Hikes

From Olcio to Zucco di Sileggio
Zucco di Sileggio (1,370 m / 4,494 ft)
  • Type: Loop
  • Dist: 12 km / 7.5 mi
  • Elev: 1,180 m / 3,870 ft ↑
  • Duration: 6h 30m
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • GPX track: Available

Zucco di Sileggio Lookout Point

This hike requires a high fitness level; the ascent features steep sections where you may need to use your hands to scramble over short, rocky outcrops.

Panorama of Corno Centrale di Canzo (1,368 m / 4,488 ft)
Corno Centrale di Canzo (1,368 m / 4,488 ft)
  • Type: Loop
  • Dist: 13 km / 8.1 mi
  • Elev: 940 m / 3,083 ft ↑
  • Duration: 6h 15m
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • GPX track: Available

Gajum to Corni di Canzo

The ascent of Corno Centrale is recommended only for experienced hikers; the climb up the rock face is short but includes exposed sections that should not be underestimated.

Long-distance Trails

The Wayfarer’s Trail - View of Varenna
Wayfarer’s Trail

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 Strada Regia - View of Brema (Molina di Faggeto)
The Strada Regia

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.

Lariano Triangle Ridge - Panoramic view of the ridge above Faggeto Lario
Lariano Triangle Ridge Trail

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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