The stretch of shoreline between Tremezzo and Lenno is among the loveliest on the lake, and a guided walk along it ties together villas, villages, a medieval path and a view of Isola Comacina, the lake's only island. The route follows the old greenway through olive groves and between stone walls, with stops for the history and for photographs, and finishes at the Villa del Balbianello headland. A guide adds the stories that explain why the area was fought over, fortified and later fashionable, and handles the route so you do not have to follow trail signs. It is a good way to see the west shore at walking pace, away from the ferries and the traffic, and it suits visitors who like a mix of landscape, history and gentle exercise.
What it is
A guided walk that starts in Tremezzo and follows the western shore past Isola Comacina toward Villa del Balbianello. Check the meeting point, the length, the pace, whether entry to the villa is included and whether the island is visited when you book, because the details vary by operator and season.
The island
Isola Comacina is the only island on Lake Como, a small wooded rock just off the shore near Ossuccio. It has a long history, including a destruction by Como's forces in the twelfth century, and ruins of churches remain. It is reached by a short boat ride and has a well-known restaurant on the island. A walk past it gives wonderful views even if you do not land.
The path
The route follows an old path with some ups and downs, through olive groves and past chapels, with stone steps and shaded stretches. It is not difficult but is not flat, and sections are uneven. Wear shoes with grip and carry water. In summer, start early to avoid the heat. After rain, stone surfaces can be slippery.
Villa del Balbianello
The route ends at or near the villa, famous for its loggia and gardens. Access to the park and the villa interior is by separate ticket and on a seasonal calendar, with Monday and Wednesday closures in the main season, so check whether your tour includes entry and plan a walk or a taxi boat back to Lenno if you do not.
Planning your day
The walk fits a half day and combines well with a lunch in Tremezzo or Lenno, a visit to Villa Carlotta and a ferry to Bellagio or Varenna. Buses along the west shore make it easy to return if you walk one way. The route suits most active adults and teenagers, but not people with mobility problems. In winter, check what runs, because some services are limited.
Good to know
Because the route follows the road in places, take care with traffic on narrow sections, walk in single file and keep children close. Taxi boats and buses give you ways to cut the walk short if the weather turns. Bring a swimsuit in summer, since there are spots on the shore where a swim is possible, and ask the guide where it is safe. Lunch options along the route can be limited outside the main season, so carry a snack, and confirm the return transport before you set out.
What to expect
The experience
A guided shoreline walk from Tremezzo past Isola Comacina to the Villa del Balbianello headland.
Best time
Morning in spring or autumn.
How long
Allow three to four hours.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip, carry water and check whether villa entry is included.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers who want villas, history and views on the west shore.
- Families
- Suitable for older children who can walk uneven paths.
- Couples
- A scenic shared walk with lunch afterwards.
- Pair with
- Pair it with Villa Carlotta and the Menaggio ferry.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do we visit Isola Comacina?+
The walk passes the island. Check whether a boat trip to it is included.
Is Villa del Balbianello included?+
Check whether entry is included. It is otherwise sold separately.
How hard is the walk?+
It is moderate, with uneven sections and some climbing.
Can I return by bus or boat?+
Yes, buses and taxi boats serve the area, but check the timetables.
Is it suitable in winter?+
Some services are limited in winter, so check the details.
