Bellano

Bellano is a picturesque village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, in Lombardy, roughly halfway between Varenna and Lecco. It is particularly known for the Orrido di Bellano, a striking natural gorge carved by the Pioverna torrent, where a walkway allows visitors to admire a waterfall and impressive rock formations. The historic centre, with its narrow lanes and vaulted passageways, retains an authentic character thanks to its colourful houses and small fishing harbour overlooking the lake. The Church of San Nicolao, built in the Lombard Gothic style, is also worth a visit for its stone façade. Bellano offers direct access to the lake, ideal for swimming and boat trips, along with a railway station connecting it to nearby villages such as Varenna, Menaggio and Como. The surrounding area features hiking trails leading up into the hills and mountain villages overlooking the lake. The region enjoys a mild climate, pleasant from spring through autumn, making Bellano a peaceful base from which to explore Lake Como away from the busier, more touristy towns.