A walking tour in Italy: Lenno, a delightful and peaceful village
- Situated in a deep cove on the western shore of Lake Como at the beginning of the coastal strip called "Tremezzina", Lenno rises on the green promontory of Lavedo, famous for the Villa Balbianello and its gardens.
A bustling village centre to discover on your Italy lake region walking tour
- The centre of Lenno is divided into two parts: the main centre and the historic centre. The main centre is next to the church and just behind the port, with a main square with the baptistery, an octagonal building from the 11th century with many frescoes inside. Not far from this building is the baroque style Saint-Etienne church, another famous monument in Lenno.
- The historic centre, also known as “the villa”, is located south of the village, accessible via a small road on the right, following the path that leads to the pier where the boats depart for Villa Balbianello. In this historic centre you can admire the many narrow streets, colourful houses, and the medieval tower the “Segnalazione Tower” and watch the boats as they carry tourists across the lake to and from the Villa Balbianello.
A wonderful and relaxing lakeside stroll to enjoy on your self-guided Italy walking holiday.
- You can begin your exploration of Lenno along the lakeside promenade. It is not a long walk but a very enjoyable one. The main part of the promenade is in the shade with beautiful views of the small port in Lenno and of Lake Como, from Balbianello Point to the village of Bellagio. At the end of the promenade, there is a small pebble beach. An ideal way to spend an hour or two, admiring the view and enjoying a drink in one of the restaurants and bars along the lake.
Visiting Villa Balbianello, an absolute must-see on your walking trip in Italy
- Lenno is known for the famous Villa Balbianello and its magnificent gardens. It is one of the most beautiful and romantic villas on Lake Como and has been used as a set for many well-known films. Villa Balbianello was built during the 17th century for the Cardinal Durini, on the site of the ruins of a former Franciscan monastery. There have been many different proprietors over the centuries including the Viscount Arconati and the Milanese Count Guido Monzino, renowned for his many expeditions including climbing Mount Everest in 1973. In his will, the Count donated the Villa to the FAI (Italian Environment Foundation).
- Inside the villa there are souvenirs from the 22 expeditions such as Kilimanjaro, North Pole and Nepal, as well as beautiful collections of antique statues, engravings, and stylish furniture (allow 1 hour for a guided visit). Masses of azaleas, camphor trees, oaks and curiously shaped plane trees adorn the gardens and the views of the lake are exceptional.
