Bellano

Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club

Close to Lecco and just over an hour from Milan, on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Bellano is both an excellent starting point for excursions around the lake and inland and a place rich in history and culture, the birthplace of numerous artists including the writer Andrea Vitali, who sets his books in Bellano.

TheOrrido is certainly worth a visit: a natural gorge created millions of years ago by the Pioverna stream, with large potholes and caverns carved out by the water, it is now one of the best-known attractions of the Lario. At the entrance is the Cà del Diavolo, which makes the mysterious charm of the place palpable, while a walkway lets visitors admire the beauty of a unique spot.

Worth seeing in the historical centre are the Church of Saints Nazzaro and Celso, in late Romanesque style and a national monument, as well as the 14th-century Church of St Martha. The Baroque Sanctuary in the hamlet of Lezzeno is in a very panoramic position, while walkers should note the famous 'Sentiero del Viandante' (one of the Cammini certified by the Italian Touring Club), a pleasant panoramic mid-mountain hike, which can also be done with expert guides from the area.

The biggest and most impressive event is the Pesa Vegia, a costume re-enactment celebrated on Epiphany night that attracts many spectators. Among the typical products, DOC olive oil from the Lombard lakes stands out.