If you’re looking for a scenic and rewarding hiking near Lake Como, the trail to the Hermitage of San Zeno in Valle Intelvi is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss. Ideal for nature lovers, families, and even beginners, this peaceful trail offers spectacular views, a touch of history, and a sense of achievement at every step.
🗺️ Discovering Valle Intelvi: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Valle Intelvi, located between Lake Como and Lake Lugano, is one of the lesser-known treasures of northern Italy. Just an hour and a half from Milan, this area combines alpine charm with Mediterranean landscapes, offering visitors a perfect setting for relaxing hikes, panoramic viewpoints, and authentic village life.
At CasaMI‑CO, our smart holiday home in San Fedele Intelvi, we always recommend guests explore the outdoors — and the trail to San Zeno is one of our favorite experiences.
🚶♂️ Starting the Hike: Pian delle Alpi to the Hermitage
For a long time, I had promised myself to visit the Hermitage of San Zeno, but between everyday life and unpredictable weather, it remained just an idea. Finally, last Saturday, I decided to go with my son — and our dog! — taking advantage of a perfect sunny day.
We drove to Pian delle Alpi, a small plateau just above San Fedele Intelvi. It’s the ideal trailhead for those who want a scenic walk that’s not too strenuous but still full of surprises.
🥾 A Trail for Everyone
The first part of the trail is a well-maintained mule track, mostly flat and surrounded by woods and meadows. Birds chirping, wildflowers blooming, and the occasional bell from grazing cows set the tone for a peaceful and relaxing walk.
After about 20 minutes, the incline begins — gently at first, then gradually steeper. Along the way, you’ll pass wooden crosses marking the Stations of the Cross, giving the trail a spiritual and historic atmosphere.
From station 1 to 9, the path remains fairly easy, but beyond that… prepare to test your legs and your lungs.
🧗♂️ The Final Climb to San Zeno
The last section of the trail includes a short but intense steep climb. It’s not technically difficult, but it does require some effort, especially if you’re not used to hiking. A few breaks to catch your breath and enjoy the view make the climb enjoyable — not painful.
When you finally reach the summit, the reward is incredible: a panoramic view that stretches across the entire Valle Intelvi and down to Lake Como.
⛪ The Hermitage of San Zeno: History and Serenity
At the top stands the Hermitage of San Zeno, a small and ancient stone chapel surrounded by silence and nature. Built centuries ago, it has long served as a spiritual retreat and a lookout point.
Whether you’re religious or not, the atmosphere here is deeply peaceful. It’s the perfect place to pause, reflect, take photos, or simply enjoy the sound of the wind in the trees.
We met a few fellow hikers, exchanged smiles and stories, and took a few pictures before heading back down.
How to Reach the San Zeno Hermitage with Google Street View
If you are planning to hike to the San Zeno Hermitage, this step-by-step guide will help you visualize the route before your trip. Thanks to Google Street View, you can explore the key points of the trail and prepare more confidently.
Step 1 – Parking at Piano delle Alpi
The hike starts from the Piano delle Alpi, where you can leave your car in a convenient parking area. From here, you walk a few hundred meters downhill along the main road.
Step 2 -Finding the trailhead
After a short descent, you will find a clear junction leading to a cobbled mule track. There are visible signs indicating the path to San Zeno. This is where the real ascent begins.
Step 3 -Hiking to the top
Unfortunately, Street View coverage does not extend along the mule track, as it is not accessible by car. The path climbs steadily through the forest and meadows. After about one hour of hiking, you will reach the destination.
Step 4 -Arrival at the Hermitage of San Zeno
At the top, you will find the San Zeno Hermitage, a place of peace and panoramic views over Valle Intelvi and Lake Como. It is the perfect reward after the climb.
🏞️ The Way Back: Downhill and Views
The descent took us about 40 minutes, slightly faster than the climb, especially since we followed a small shortcut through open fields, which offered more great photo opportunities.
Going down, we realized just how steep that final section really was — be careful and wear proper shoes to avoid slipping!
🌄 Why This Hike Belongs on Your Lake Como Itinerary
If you’re staying at CasaMI‑CO or anywhere near San Fedele Intelvi, this trail is a perfect half-day adventure that combines:
- Natural beauty 🌲
- Accessible difficulty levels 🥾
- Historical value ⛪
- Breathtaking views 📸
It’s also dog-friendly and perfect for a family outing. Plus, the proximity to other attractions like Pigra, Argegno, and the Intelvi Valley cable car makes it easy to include in any itinerary.
🏡 Stay at CasaMI‑CO: Your Base for Hiking and Exploring
At CasaMI‑CO, we offer a smart and cozy holiday home just minutes from Pian delle Alpi. With Self Check-In, Smart Lock, WiFi, and a virtual concierge (VICKY) to assist you 24/7, your stay will be smooth and connected — so you can focus on enjoying the nature around you.
Looking for other hikes or scenic spots in Valle Intelvi and Lake Como? Just ask us — or ask VICKY, our AI assistant!
📍 Practical Info for the Hike
- Starting point: Pian delle Alpi (15 min from San Fedele Intelvi)
- Duration: ~1 hour ascent / ~40 min descent
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Dog-friendly: Yes
- Best time to go: Spring, summer, early autumn
📸 Final Thoughts
The hike to the Hermitage of San Zeno is a must-do experience in Valle Intelvi. If you’re searching for a trail that combines nature, culture, and views — all within reach of Lake Como — this is it.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay while exploring the area, we’ll be happy to welcome you at CasaMI‑CO, your home base for discovering the hidden gems of northern Italy.
F.A.Q. – Hiking to the Hermitage of San Zeno
How difficult is the hike to the Hermitage of San Zeno?
The trail from Pian delle Alpi to the hermitage is classified as easy to intermediate, making it well-suited for families, beginner hikers, and those seeking a scenic walk rather than a challenging trek.
How long does the hike take and what is the distance?
The round-trip hike to the Hermitage of San Zeno covers approximately 4 km and typically takes between 1 and 2 hours, depending on your pace.
Where is the starting point of the trail?
You begin your hike from Pian delle Alpi, a plateau just above San Fedele Intelvi. It offers parking and serves as a tranquil trailhead.
What can I expect to see along the trail?
As you ascend, you’ll encounter a Via Crucis composed of wooden crosses made from railway sleepers, crafted by the Alpini. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views over Lake Como, including Comacina Island and the Lavedo peninsula.
Is the trail suitable for all seasons and fitness levels?
Absolutely. The route is accessible for people of various fitness levels—including families and casual walkers—and remains manageable year-round.
