Best Views Of Lake Como: Hiking Corni Di Canzo
For some of the most impressive views across Lake Como and the Alps, you really have to head up towards Corni di Canzo. These peaks, known as the “Three Horns,” sit high above Valmadrera and offer a perspective of the lakes and the mountains that is simply unbeatable. It is a bit of a climb to get there, but standing at the top with Lake Como stretched out below makes every bit of the effort worth it.
| Category | Details |
| Route | Valmadrera to Pianezzo Alp (Path #7) |
| Time to Rifugio SEV | 2.5 – 3 hours (one way) |
| Altitude | 1,276 metres |
| Difficulty (to Rifugio) | Medium (Steady incline, well-marked) |
| Difficulty (to Western Horn) | Hard (Uneven terrain and exposed edges). |
A Panoramic View Of Multiple Lakes
The most surprising part of this hike is that you are not just looking at Lake Como. Once you gain enough elevation, you get a spectacular panoramic view that includes several different bodies of water. While the Lecco branch of Lake Como is the star of the show, you can also look back towards the south and see Lake Annone and Lake Garlate shimmering in the distance. On a clear day, the contrast between the deep blue of the big lake and the smaller lakes of the Brianza region is stunning
Finding The Starting Point: Percorso Delle Casote to Trail 7
The hike begins in Valmadrera, and you can find the exact trailhead at this Google Maps location. Once you arrive, you will follow the path up through the Percorso delle Casote. The path is well-defined and easy to follow as you begin your ascent. When you reach the Cappella VARS Cross, keep going straight. You won’t see this path as an option on google maps but you will be able to see it once you get there.
Look For The Red Markers
To ensure you stay on Path 7, keep an eye out for the number 7 signposts along the way. If they become less frequent, look at the rocks. There will be red paint on them that will guide you the way.
Depending on your pace, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the Rifugio SEV.
The Reward: Rifugio SEV And The Pianezzo Alp
After a little over two hours of steady climbing, the trail levels out as you hit the Pianezzo Alp and arrive at Rifugio SEV at 1,276 metres. At this height, the view really starts to open up. You can see the snow-capped Swiss mountains in the far distance and the Lecco branch of the lake stretching out below you. It is a fantastic spot to catch your breath and soak the view all in.
Once you have taken in the view, go to Rifugio SEV. We queued a bit and waited for a table. We ordered ¼ of a litre house red wine and two salamella paninis. This is a classic Italian mountain-sausage sandwich usually done on a grill or bbq. If you have not tried one, you need to!
Reaching The Peak: The 360-Degree Panorama
While the view from the Rifugio is lovely, the real magic happens when you continue walking up towards the Corni di Canzo. It is at this point that the 360-degree views really start to open up.
Once you gain that final bit of elevation, you are not just looking at the Lecco branch of the lake. You can look back towards the south and see Lake Annone and Lake Garlate shimmering in the distance.
The Western Horn And A Word Of Warning
From the Rifugio, you can head towards the Western Horn (Corno Occidentale). It takes about 40 minutes to an hour to reach the cross at the top. There are also two other paths you can take for more information on these visit this website [Excursions Rifugio SEV].
An Honest Warning: Know Your Limits
this final part of the trail is difficult. The ground becomes very uneven and there is a significant exposed edge that you need to navigate. If you have a fear of exposed edges, like I do, it is a bit of a challenge.
I actually stopped about 20 minutes into this section and decided to wait for Antonio to finish the climb to the cross. The view from where I sat was still incredible, as you can see from the picture.
The Descent: Via Corno Birone And Sentiero Lucio Vassena
To head back down toward Valmadrera, the best route is via Corno Birone and the Sentiero Lucio Vassena. This path is known for its incredible limestone environment. You are basically walking across a rugged, rocky ridge that connects the Corni di Canzo to the lower peaks. The landscape here is very distinct, with steep white rock faces and constant, wide-open views of the lake and the jagged profile of Mount Resegone across the water.
The Iron Cross At Corno Birone
As you make your way down, you will pass the summit of Corno Birone at 1,116 metres. It is a smaller peak compared to the “Three Horns” we climbed earlier, but it is a fantastic spot nonetheless. You cannot miss it because it features a very prominent iron summit cross right at the top.
It is a great place for one last look at the view before the final stretch of the descent. Just be aware that the terrain here is still quite rocky and steep in places, so be careful.
The Post-Hike Secret: Where To Eat And Drink
After a day on the mountain, you have definitely earned a reward. Depending on whether you have a car or you are on foot, I have two ‘insider’ spots.
If You Have A Car: The Best Gelato In Italy
A ten-minute drive, head over to the nearby town of Galbiate to find Gelateria Ronchetti. I have lived in Italy for four years now and I have eaten my fair share of gelato, but this is by far the best I have found anywhere in the country. It is a total hidden gem and well worth the short drive.
If You Are On Foot: A 15-Minute Walk To Aperitivo
If you do not have a car, or if your legs are absolutely screaming for a rest, you can stay right in the local area. Skip the gelato and take an easy 15-minute walk from the end of the trail over to Grace’s Bakery in Malgrate. [Read why Grace’s Bakery is my top Aperitivo find here].
Want More Northern Italy Hikes?
You can [check out more of my Northern Italy hikes here] for more guides on where to find the best views, the best rifugios, and the most authentic local spots in the region.