Between Nature, Villages and Views: Trails and Paths to Rediscover Lombardy at a Slow Pace
Lombardy is a region full of surprises. Not just metropolises and iconic lakes, but also a dense network of cycling and walking trails winding through hills, mountains, rivers, and forgotten villages. A green heritage to be experienced slowly, on foot or by bike, to breathe in the region’s authentic beauty.
In this article, we present some of the most scenic routes in the region, perfect for those who love to walk, cycle, and be inspired by nature, history, and local traditions.
The Way of the Sisters (Via delle Sorelle)
The Way of the Sisters is one of the newest routes in Lombardy, offering a journey through nature, art, history, and faith. This trail was created in 2023 on the occasion of “Bergamo / Brescia Capital of Culture“.
The route covers 130 kilometers over 6 stages, though it’s possible to walk only parts of it depending on your time and physical ability. The path winds mostly through the hilly areas of Bergamo and Brescia, featuring art installations along the way.
This Lombard trail passes through a wonderful green corridor, allowing you to discover lesser-known villages, traditions, and local products.
For more information: The Way of the Sisters
The Wayfarer’s Path (Sentiero del Viandante)
The Wayfarer’s Path is one of the more recently rediscovered trails. It mostly follows a mid-slope route along the Lecco side of Lake Como.
The trail runs from Abbadia Lariana to Morbegno. It’s a truly scenic path that spans 60 kilometers over 5 stages.
The Way of Saint Columbanus (Cammino di San Colombano)
The Way of Saint Columbanus is fully immersed in greenery and nature. It’s the final stretch of a much longer journey that the Irish abbot took with his companions across Europe between the 6th and 7th centuries.
But it’s not just a religious route: it features diverse natural landscapes, cultural landmarks, and food and wine experiences, running through Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna.
It stretches, to be precise, for 300 kilometers over 18 stages (the final 5 stages are in Emilia-Romagna), between the Alps and Bobbio in the province of Piacenza.
For more information: The Way of Saint Columbanus
The Lake Maggiore Trail (Cammino del Lago Maggiore)
The Lake Maggiore Trail was completed just recently, in early April. It was designed by the Tracciaminima Association, which aims to regenerate lesser-known areas and promote slow tourism.
This is a circular route of 240 kilometers passing through Lombardy, Switzerland, and Piedmont, offering a complete loop around Lake Maggiore.
For more information: The Lake Maggiore Trail
The Valeriana Way (Via Valeriana)
The Valeriana Way runs entirely within the province of Brescia, passing by Lake Iseo and through the Camonica Valley, renowned for its prehistoric rock engravings.
The route covers a distance of 140 kilometers over 8 moderately difficult stages. Note that some sections include climbs that may be challenging for some hikers.
For more information: The Valeriana Way
The Green Trail of the Oglio River (Sentiero Verde dell’Oglio)
The Green Trail of the Oglio River, as the name suggests, follows the course of the Oglio River.
It winds through beautiful country roads and woodlands, offering postcard-perfect natural views from another era—timeless in their charm and beauty.
The trail starts from Sarnico and Paratico, which divide the Lake Iseo shore between Bergamo and Brescia, spanning 100 kilometers over 6 stages, ending in Ostiano.
For more information: The Green Trail of the Oglio River
Each trail in Lombardy offers more than just physical movement: it’s a way to slow down, observe, and listen. It’s a chance to discover the region from a new, more intimate and sustainable perspective. Whether you choose a short segment or a multi-stage journey, these paths promise beauty, discovery, and well-being.
Backpack on, Lombardy is waiting for you… step by step.
Cover photo source: Canva Pro
