Route

Start from the small hamlet of Rongio that is part of Mandello del Lario. From the small piazza Sant’Antonio go to the little square behind the bar Simone. Follow the signs that say No. 14 to Refugio Elisa and No. 18 for Gardata, Alpe Cetra, Refugio Bietti. Within a few hundred metres from the starting point you will find a cable and pole used for hauling materials. Immediately after this, on the left, you will find a trail that leads down to the river (in the summer it may be overgrown). Follow the river until you find a bridge that crosses over. Cross over the bridge and continue along the other side of the river. Follow signs for “Sentiero del fiume" (15B). Enjoy the river and waterfalls. Give yourself enough time to return on the same path.

When to Go

This hike is best in the summer and fall when there is no ice. Consider hiking boots that have some water resistance as you may need to walk over stepping stones in the water. Some parts of the path are exposed. Some parts have chains for assistance. This is a great hike for cooling off when the weather in Lake Como gets unbearably hot. You can swim in the river and natural pools when the weather is very warm. There are no real spectacular views, the hike is about being around a seemingly endless flowing stream with mountain pools.