Walking routes and biodiversity: the leisurely charm of the Sentiero del Viandante
3 minutes
With the arrival of spring, Italy transforms into a mosaic of colours, scents and sounds. It is the time when nature awakens and walking trails once again take centre stage in a form of slow, sustainable and deeply immersive tourism. One of the most evocative routes in northern Italy, the Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer's Path), which overlooks Lake Como, is a perfect example of how walking can become an experience of reconnecting with the environment.
A historic trail through lake and nature
The Traveller's Trail runs for about 70 kilometres along the eastern shore of the lake, passing through historic villages such as Abbadia Lariana, Varenna and Bellano. Ancient mule tracks, Roman roads and mediaeval paths intertwine along a route that once connected Milan to the Valtellina.
Today, this route has become a popular destination for hikers, walkers and environmentally conscious travellers. Spring is undoubtedly the ideal season to visit: the temperatures are mild, the crowds are smaller, and the biodiversity is at its peak.
The Traveller's Trail has its roots in very ancient times: as early as Roman times, there were routes linking Mediolanum (Milan) with the Alps, which were used for military and trade purposes. In the Middle Ages, the route became established as an alternative communication route to navigation on the lake, which was often rendered unsafe by weather conditions or raids. The cobbled mule tracks and stone bridges that can still be found along the route today bear witness to this historical layering, as do the numerous Romanesque churches and small rural settlements. In this sense, the Sentiero del Viandante forms part of the broader network of historic European routes: like the Via Francigena, this route also served as a corridor for trade, pilgrimage and cultural exchange between different regions.
The rebirth of biodiversity
Walking along the Traveller's Trail in spring allows you to witness a constantly changing natural spectacle. The hillsides are tinged with bright green, dotted with wildflowers: wild orchids, primroses, violets and gorse.
Amid the terraced olive groves and chestnut woods, you can observe a vibrant array of wildlife: pollinating insects, migratory birds and small mammals are once again bringing the local ecosystem to life. You can spot foxes, hedgehogs, squirrels and wild boar, as well as rarer species such as the fire salamander. This delicate balance makes it clear how crucial it is to adopt responsible tourism practices.
Along the route, in addition to farmsteads, small rural settlements and the remains of monasteries, you will encounter distinctive areas, such as the Orrido di Bellano and the area around the mouth of the Lesina stream, which make the natural experience unique and incomparable.
Choosing a route such as the Sentiero del Viandante or other walking trails offers a different way of travelling. Time slows down, and every step becomes a conscious experience. To preserve biodiversity and help protect the local area, it is important to follow a few best practices:
- Stay on the marked trails
- Avoid picking flowers or disturbing wildlife
- Opt for local accommodation and zero-mile products
- Reduce the use of plastic
This approach not only protects the environment but also benefits local economies, promoting more equitable and evenly distributed tourism.
Useful information for your trip
Walking the Trail of the Wanderer is an experience accessible even to those who are not experienced hikers, provided they approach the trail with a minimum of preparation. The route, generally divided into four stages, starts in Lecco and runs along the eastern shore of the lake to Morbegno, offering the option of adapting the itinerary thanks to the railway line that connects the main villages. This makes the trail particularly flexible, ideal both for those who wish to complete it in three or four days and for those who prefer to explore only certain sections.
Spring and early autumn are the best times to undertake the journey, when the weather is mild and the landscapes reveal their natural beauty to the full. The signage, also maintained by the CAI (Italian Alpine Club), is orange in colour and well placed along the entire route, making it easy to find your way, although it is always advisable to carry a map or a digital trail. Along the trail, you will come across agritourism farms, small hotels and refreshment points that promote local cuisine, providing a tangible opportunity to support the local economy. Tackling the trail with suitable footwear, a light backpack and an eye on the weather conditions allows you to fully enjoy an authentic, leisurely and environmentally respectful experience.
