Episode 4 of 5 Lake Como Series
In Episode Four of our Lake Como podcast series, we explore the dramatic and culturally rich eastern shore of the lake. While the western side may get more attention for its villas and celebrity visitors, the eastern branch of Lake Como offers something quieter, more rugged, and deeply rewarding. It’s a place where limestone cliffs plunge into deep blue water, and hiking trails lead from village lanes to mountain peaks. The towns here are full of history, literary references, and lakeside tranquility.
From Lecco to Mandello del Lario
Our journey begins in Lecco, a lively city with a dramatic mountain backdrop and a deep literary past. This was the hometown of Alessandro Manzoni, author of The Betrothed, and visitors can walk in the footsteps of his characters through cobbled streets, elegant piazzas, and historic churches. The Basilica of San Nicolò, Ponte Azzone Visconti, and Villa Manzoni offer a blend of cultural and architectural significance.
Across the water sits Malgrate, a smaller town with a peaceful lakeside promenade and some of the best views of Lecco at sunset. It’s a perfect stop for walkers, cyclists, and anyone seeking a quiet café by the water.
Heading north, Valmadrera offers small beaches, hidden coves, and lake access without the crowds. It’s ideal for a relaxing swim or picnic on the shoreline. Just beyond is Abbadia Lariana, one of the best places to start the Sentiero del Viandante, a historic trail that hugs the eastern slopes of the lake. The town is also home to a unique Silk Museum, showcasing the region’s industrial heritage.
We finish this section in Mandello del Lario, home of the world-famous Moto Guzzi motorcycle factory. In addition to motorsports history, Mandello offers scenic walks, lakeside beaches, and hikes into the Grigna mountains.
From Lierna to Esino Lario
Continuing north, we reach Lierna, a postcard-worthy village with one of the most beautiful beaches on the lake—Riva Bianca—as well as castle views and a quiet, upscale feel. It’s a favorite for photographers and couples.
Just north lies Fiumelatte, known for Italy’s shortest river, which runs white and fast for only part of the year. It’s a scenic curiosity and a short walk from the more famous town of Varenna.
Varenna is often called the most romantic town on Lake Como. With its pastel buildings, steep stairways, lakeside villas, and gorgeous gardens, it’s easy to see why. Highlights include Villa Monastero, Villa Cipressi, Castello di Vezio, and the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, or Lovers’ Walk.
Above Varenna, the hilltop village of Perledo offers terraced olive groves, agriturismi, and panoramic hikes. Even higher in the mountains sits Esino Lario, a quiet Alpine town known for its cultural festivals and natural history museum. It hosted Wikimania 2016, attracting visitors from all over the world, and today it continues to invest in cultural events, art, and outdoor exploration.
Looking Ahead
The eastern shore of Lake Como is perfect for hikers, readers, and travelers who want to feel more than just the breeze off the water. It’s for those who want to walk the trails, learn the stories, and step inside the rhythms of everyday life on the lake.
In Episode Five, our final installment, we’ll take a broader look at the top experiences around Lake Como—from hiking and biking to boating, wine tasting, paragliding, and cable car adventures. Whether you’re planning a relaxing lakeside retreat or an action-packed itinerary, Episode Five will help you create the ultimate Lake Como experience. Subscribe to the Immersion Travel Podcast, and sign up for my free newsletter at www.katerinaferrara.com Travel deeply, live fully, and let Lake Como surprise you.
