Autumn is a magical season on Lake Como. The lush green landscapes of summer slowly transform into a warm palette of gold, amber, and red. The air becomes crisp, the lake takes on a reflective, almost cinematic quality, and the mountain paths are framed by colors that make every step feel like walking through a painting. For many visitors, this is the best time of year to discover the lake’s trails, when the crowds are smaller, the weather is still pleasant, and the scenery is at its peak.
Hiking in autumn around Lake Como is not only about exercise and exploration — it is about slowing down, breathing in the clear mountain air, and letting the colors of the season guide your journey. Here are some of the best trails to explore during this unique time of year, where nature, history, and culture blend together against the backdrop of the lake.
Sentiero del Viandante: the timeless traveler’s path
Perhaps the most famous route on the eastern side of the lake, the Sentiero del Viandante is an ancient path once used by merchants and travelers moving between villages. Today it stretches for about 45 kilometers, from Abbadia Lariana near Lecco up to Colico, offering a continuous line of views over the lake.
In autumn, the trail becomes even more enchanting. The chestnut trees that line many sections of the route are heavy with fallen leaves, creating a soft, golden carpet underfoot. The vineyards you encounter along the way glow with red and yellow tones, while the blue lake below provides a dramatic contrast. You don’t need to walk the entire length to enjoy it — each section between villages such as Varenna, Bellano, and Dervio has its own character and beauty.
The Greenway del Lago di Como: gentle walks with history
On the western side of the lake, the Greenway del Lago di Como is a perfect choice for those who want a less demanding hike. This 10-kilometer path runs through historic villages, Roman roads, ancient churches, and gardens. Starting in Colonno and ending in Griante, it can be walked in about three to four hours.
Autumn here means walking through villages decorated with seasonal flowers, crossing olive groves that begin to show signs of harvest, and admiring villas framed by fiery autumn leaves. The gentle terrain makes it accessible for families and casual walkers, while still offering plenty of panoramic points where you can stop, take photos, and simply absorb the atmosphere.
Monte Grona: panoramic views from above
For more experienced hikers, Monte Grona is one of the best peaks in the area. Located near Menaggio, it offers several routes to the summit, each with increasing levels of difficulty. From the top, the view is unforgettable: the entire basin of Lake Como spreads out below, with the peaks of the Alps to the north and, on clear days, even the distant outline of Milan to the south.
In autumn, reaching the summit has an added charm. The lower slopes are covered in woods that shine with autumn colors, and as you climb higher, the crispness of the air and the silence of the season make the effort even more rewarding.
Brunate to Monte Boletto: colors above Como
If you are staying near the city of Como, one of the most rewarding autumn hikes is the trail from Brunate, the hilltop village connected to Como by funicular, up to Monte Boletto. The walk is moderate and can be completed in a few hours, making it perfect for a half-day excursion.
Along the way, you pass through beech and birch forests that in autumn become spectacular. The trail alternates between shaded woodland and open viewpoints, where the lake and the city shimmer below in the soft autumn light. On weekends, local families often take this path, giving it a warm, convivial atmosphere.
Alpe Giumello: an easy walk with wide horizons
In the northern area of the lake, above Bellano and Valsassina, Alpe Giumello is a wide, open plateau known for its pastoral beauty and sweeping views. The walk here is not difficult and is suitable even for those who simply want to take a gentle stroll. From the plateau, you can admire both Lake Como and Lake Lugano, as well as the surrounding mountains.
Autumn transforms Alpe Giumello into a golden amphitheater. The meadows take on warm shades, and the larches that dot the slopes turn yellow, creating a striking contrast with the clear autumn sky. It’s a place where silence reigns, interrupted only by the bells of grazing cows.
Practical tips for autumn hiking around Lake Como
- Weather: Autumn weather can change quickly. Morning mists often give way to sunny afternoons, but it’s wise to bring layers and a waterproof jacket.
- Footwear: Trails can be covered in leaves, which hide rocks and roots, so proper hiking shoes are essential.
- Timing: Days are shorter, so start your hike early to make the most of the daylight.
- Food: Many mountain huts and rifugi begin to close at the end of summer. Pack snacks and water, but also check in advance if a refuge is open — enjoying polenta with local cheese in an alpine hut is one of the best rewards of hiking here.
- Photography: Autumn light is soft and golden, ideal for photography. Bring a camera or make sure your phone is charged: the landscapes deserve to be captured.
Why autumn hiking on Lake Como is unforgettable
What makes hiking in autumn special is not only the beauty of the foliage but also the atmosphere. The lake feels quieter, more intimate. You share the trails with locals, not just tourists, and you experience the rhythm of the season: harvest in the vineyards, wood smoke rising from villages, the calm of the lake preparing for winter.
Every path offers a mix of colors, scents, and history, reminding you that Lake Como is not just a destination for summer luxury but a year-round place of discovery. Walking in autumn allows you to slow down, connect with nature, and see the lake in a light that few visitors experience.
So lace up your boots, choose a trail that suits your pace, and let the colors of autumn guide your steps. On Lake Como, each path is more than a walk — it’s an invitation to live the season fully, surrounded by beauty.
