Bellano, the Orrido and the Sentiero del Viandante

Technical information

Description

Morning – From Bellano to Vezio

Reach Varenna by ferry (departure at 9:35). From the pier, walk to the train station and continue to Bellano by train (departure at 10:25; trains run approximately every 30 minutes, see ). Head towards the Church of San Rocco, the starting point of the Sentiero del Viandante. Before beginning your hike, take time to visit the Orrido di Bellano, the famous natural gorge carved over centuries by the Pioverna stream. Suspended walkways, towering rock walls and plays of light create a striking, almost mysterious setting, made even more atmospheric by the winter season. The walk toward Varenna takes about two hours and leads you through old terraced fields, stone paths and small hamlets overlooking the lake, until you reach Vezio, where breathtaking views open over the central lake and surrounding mountains.

Lunch – A panoramic break

Take a break for a packed lunch near Castello di Vezio. On weekends, small traditional “crotti” along the path may also be open (better to check online and to book), perfect for a moment of relaxation surrounded by silence and the pure, timeless beauty of the winter landscape.

Afternoon – Returning to Varenna

After lunch, descend toward Varenna along the Sentiero del Viandante. At the end of your walk, treat yourself to an aperitivo in one of the village’s cafés (link), enjoying the peaceful, intimate atmosphere of a winter afternoon. If you’d like to continue exploring Varenna, follow the famous Lovers’ Walkway, which winds along the lake between small harbours, stairways and charming viewpoints.

Return – A journey wrapped in sunset light

Head back to Bellagio in the evening using one of the available ferries (departure at 16:50) or boats (departure at 17:55), enjoying the reflections of the evening lights on the lake.

Extra – Dinner with views and atmosphere

If you wish to end your day in a special way, stay for dinner in Varenna at one of the lakeside restaurants. Here you can enjoy the warm tones of the sunset and the intimate charm of the winter village. Remember: the last ferry to Bellagio departs at 21:20 on Saturdays and 21:45 on Sundays.

Evening – Dinner and relaxation

Conclude your day with dinner at your accommodation or in one of Bellagio’s open restaurants. Let yourself be embraced by the calm evening atmosphere, as the reflections on the lake accompany the slow rhythm of a journey filled with elegance and authenticity.

Extra 2 – Relax and wellness at Hotel Du Lac’s SPA

To end the day in complete relaxation, enjoy some time at the SPA of Hotel Du Lac. Regenerating massages, Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice cascades, hydromassage and a dedicated relaxation area await you in a calm and comforting environment. All accompanied by herbal teas offered by the tisaneria, for a complete experience of wellbeing and renewal.