One of the most scenic hikes around Lake Como is the Ancient Mule Tracks, a series of trails that wind through the lush woods surrounding the lake, offering breathtaking views, especially of the northern part of the lake and the Pian di Spagna.
If you are an avid hiker, the Ancient Mule Tracks should be at the top of your list when visiting Lake Como. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and prepare for a journey that not only rewards you with stunning vistas but also with the remnants of abandoned farm buildings, which have become an integral part of the landscape along the way.
Considered one of the more challenging hikes around Lake Como, the Ancient Mule Tracks stretch for about 10 km and climb to an elevation of 795 meters, with an estimated walking time of approximately four hours.
The trail begins at Piazza Cesare Battisti in Sorico. As you follow the path, you will encounter several historically and culturally significant landmarks, including the Church of Santo Stefano, built in 1444 and later restored in Baroque style in 1703, and the site where a monastery of the Order of the Humiliati once stood, along with the Church of Sant’Orsola. The mule track continues toward the Castle of San Giorgio, passing a scenic viewpoint where the Sorico stream waterfall begins. The path then crosses a bridge into the forest, eventually reaching Dolo. Further along, you will come across the 16th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista in Bugiallo.
As the trail progresses, it alternates between paved and dirt paths, passing by other historical and cultural sites, such as the Church of San Martino and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, before looping back to Piazza Cesare Battisti, the starting point of your journey.
If you are wondering what to do around Lake Como, the Ancient Mule Tracks offer one of the most rewarding and fascinating hikes in the region, combining nature, history, and culture in a single route.Book your stay with us today and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich heritage of Lake Como!
