There is a corner of Lake Como where tourism slows down, the air is fresher, and the landscapes become even more wild and authentic. The Upper Lake Como, stretching between the northern shores and alpine valleys, is the ideal destination for those seeking a sustainable holiday, with lakeside villages, scenic walks, and low-impact outdoor sports. Here, the lake meets the mountains in a quiet embrace, offering clear sunrises and sunsets reflected on the water that warm the heart.
In this part of Lake Como, you will feel a slow, genuine atmosphere inviting you to rediscover the beauty of small things: a morning walk along the lake, the scent of coffee in village cafés, chats with fishermen returning from the lake. If you seek a place to regenerate among nature, sports, and local traditions, Upper Lake Como will surprise you.
Between lakeside villages and scenic trails
The charm of Upper Lake Como can be felt in its small villages, where stone houses line quiet harbors and mountains frame postcard views. Domaso, with its windy beaches loved by sailors and kitesurfers, offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. In Gravedona ed Uniti, you can stroll through historic alleys, admire the beautiful Church of Santa Maria del Tiglio, and enjoy artisan gelato along the lakeside.
Each village has a unique story to tell, from cobblestone squares to flowered balconies overlooking the lake, and ancient Romanesque churches embraced by silence. Photography enthusiasts will find enchanting views at every step, with colorful boats swaying in the harbors and mountains reflecting in the water.
If you love hiking, Upper Lake Como invites you to explore its scenic trails. For example, the path leading to Monte Berlinghera offers unmatched views of the lake and the Rhaetian Alps. The Greenway dei Patriarchi also offers accessible walks for everyone, immersing you in olive groves, woods, and small villages overlooking the blue of the lake.
In spring and summer, the trails fill with the scent of wild herbs and birdsong, offering moments of true connection with nature, away from the noise and rush of daily life.
Water sports and wild nature
Upper Lake Como is also perfect for lovers of outdoor sports. The shores of Domaso and Gera Lario are ideal for windsurfing, sailing, and kayaking, thanks to the constant breeze, while grassy beaches are perfect for a relaxing day and a refreshing swim in the clear waters of the lake.
Those looking for a slower experience can explore the lake by canoe or SUP, discovering hidden coves and small beaches accessible only by water, where the silence is broken only by the sound of the waves.
For cycling lovers, the bike path connecting Colico to Sorico offers a flat route through nature, small lakes, and nature reserves, with the mountains towering in the background. If you wish to experience deeper contact with nature, venture into the valleys of Upper Lake Como: Valchiavenna and Valtellina offer trekking, horseback riding, and forest walks, immersing you in a slower dimension of silence and the scent of grass and wood.
Each season offers different emotions: in autumn, the woods turn red and gold, while in winter the peaks become snow-capped, and clear days offer spectacular lake views. It is a place worth returning to, discovering a new trail, a new view, and a new corner of beauty each time.
Where to sleep sustainably on the Upper Lake Como
To fully experience Upper Lake Como, you can stay at La Poulerie Suite Dépendance, a charming holiday home in the pedestrian village of Burano, in Montemezzo, less than 100 meters from the parking area. La Poulerie offers a well-equipped kitchenette, a wardrobe space, and a bathroom on the ground floor, while upstairs, a bright living/sleeping area with lake views.
Outside, you will find a lovely garden among the plants, perfect for enjoying breakfast outdoors or relaxing after a day of exploring. The house is equipped with a fridge, kettle, stove, microwave, and washing machine, providing everything you need for a comfortable and independent stay. Nearby, you can discover local restaurants and trattorias where you can taste local specialties at affordable prices, immersing yourself in the authenticity of the territory.
The hosts will warmly welcome you, explaining the accommodation and remaining available throughout your holiday. From La Poulerie, you can embark on long walks among chestnut and birch woods or enjoy lake activities like kite surfing, water skiing, or paragliding, enjoying breathtaking views of Upper Lake Como. Staying here means immersing yourself in an area rich in enchanting villages, rural architecture, ancient churches, towers, and castles, taking home the authentic memory of a sustainable holiday on Lake Como.
