Best mountain passes around Ponte Lambro offer access to the natural landscapes of the Valle del Lambro Regional Park, characterized by plateaus and small valleys. While Ponte Lambro itself provides local trails, the broader Lombardy region, where it is located, features several iconic Alpine passes. These passes are known for their scenic beauty, historical significance, and popularity among cyclists and hikers. The area provides a starting point for exploring both local nature and more challenging routes in the nearby Alps.
…Last updated: June 26, 2026
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Monument dedicated to Angelo Marelli
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Yes, at the foot of the Palanzone
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Passage to go up to Palanzone or to the Riella refuge
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Beautiful ridge hike for those who like to have a bit of emptiness on both sides.
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Since the Madonna de Ghisallo is officially the patron saint of racing cyclists, the Passo Ghisallo is a monument to the Tour of Lombardy and the Giro d'Italia, and also, in general, because it is a wonderful place with a very beautiful climb, you should definitely go up here on your racing bike.
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Technical passage for people with a propensity for exposed passages
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I'm asking for info. On the komoot map there is (going up from the 25th anniversary via ferrata) a fork on the left. Is this fork located before the Passo della Vacca? Is it passable and can it function as an escape route? Thanks
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Passo della Vacca – Corni di Canzo Elevation: approx. 1,230 m Difficulty: EE (Expert Hikers) / T4 Exposure: high on the south side (vertical drop) Passo della Vacca is a characteristic rock notch located along the crest of the Western Horn of the Corni di Canzo, in the Larian Triangle. It is located just below the summit, at approximately 1,230 meters above sea level, and ideally connects the Ravella Valley (Canzo) with Valbrona, offering a suggestive and delicate passage in the crest crossing of the three Corni. Morphologically, it appears as a clear fracture in the rock, approximately 40 cm wide at the base but which widens towards the top, creating an exposed point with a vertical precipice on the south side, above the so-called Camino Gandin (an 80-meter gully). On the north side, however, it descends into a steep grassy gully, more accessible but still sloping. Its particular shape creates a natural “window effect”: at sunset, the sun can filter through the rock and make the hole visible from the valley floor. It is a must-see for those who reach the Corno Occidentale via the ridge from the west or from the Ferrata del Venticinquennale, and is part of routes classified EE (Expert Hikers) due to its exposure. The section is not equipped: there are no chains or cables. The crossing is done by supporting yourself with your hands and feet, lowering yourself on the north side to cross the gap safely. It does not present any real mountaineering difficulties, but requires a sure step, an absence of vertigo and maximum concentration, especially with a bulky backpack or in the presence of wind. The Passo della Vacca can be reached from path no. 1 from Canzo passing through Terz’Alpe, or from Colma di Pianezzo and Rifugio SEV via the ridge. Once passed, in a few minutes you reach the summit cross of the Corno Occidentale (1,373 m). From here you can continue with the complete crossing of the three Corni (Western, Central, Eastern) or descend towards the SEV Refuge. It is not recommended in the presence of snow or ice, when it becomes an alpine passage and may present verglas. In summer, however, it should be avoided in case of storms or crowds. The ideal is to tackle it in spring or autumn with dry rock. Although it is short and technically simple, it is a stretch where caution is essential: in the past, even serious accidents have occurred, often caused by distraction or underestimation of the danger. The Passo della Vacca is a symbol of the wild charm of the Corni di Canzo: a place that offers strong emotions and spectacular views, reserved for those who have experience, attention and respect for the mountains.
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Some of the most popular mountain passes in the vicinity include Madonna del Ghisallo and Cycling Museum, a legendary climb for cyclists, and Colma di Sormano Summit and Observatory, known for its challenging "Sormano Wall." Another appreciated spot is the Marelli Memorial on Mount Palanzone, offering spectacular views.
Yes, the area boasts several passes with rich history. Madonna del Ghisallo is famous for its Marian apparition legend and its cycling museum. The Marelli Memorial commemorates a partisan from the Italian Resistance. Further afield in Lombardy, the historic San Marco Pass dates back to the late 16th century as a trade route.
For experienced cyclists, the region offers several demanding climbs. The Madonna del Ghisallo is a legendary ascent. The Colma di Sormano is infamous for its "Sormano Wall." In the broader Lombardy region, the Stelvio Pass with its 48 hairpin bends and the Mortirolo Pass, known for its exceptionally steep gradients, are world-renowned challenges.
The mountain passes around Ponte Lambro offer diverse natural beauty. You can expect panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains from spots like the Marelli Memorial. Passes like Cow Pass and Bocchetta di Luera provide rugged, untouched alpine landscapes and lush forests, especially within the Valle del Lambro Regional Park.
While some passes like Cow Pass are challenging, many areas around Ponte Lambro, particularly within the Valle del Lambro Regional Park, offer easier trails suitable for families. The Bocchetta di Luera, for instance, has well-marked trails of varying difficulty, with accessible paths to the Corno Orientale summit offering panoramic views.
The area around Ponte Lambro is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging loops around Monte Puscio and Monte Palanzone. Cycling is very popular, with routes like the Lago di Annone loop. There are also extensive MTB trails, such as the Capanna Mara loop. For more details on these activities, visit the Running Trails around Ponte Lambro, Cycling around Ponte Lambro, and MTB Trails around Ponte Lambro guides.
The best time to visit depends on the pass and your activity. For higher Alpine passes like Stelvio and Gavia (further into Lombardy), they are typically open from May to November, depending on snow conditions. For local trails and passes around Ponte Lambro, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, ideal for hiking and cycling. Summer is also popular, but some trails can be crowded.
Absolutely. The Colma di Sormano Summit and Observatory provides stunning vistas. The Marelli Memorial on Mount Palanzone offers spectacular views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. Additionally, Cow Pass and Bocchetta di Luera are known for their panoramic views of the Lombard Prealps.
Komoot users appreciate the diverse experiences offered by these passes. Many enjoy the challenging climbs and the sense of accomplishment, especially on routes like the Madonna del Ghisallo. The stunning natural beauty, panoramic views, and the historical significance of sites like the Marelli Memorial are also frequently highlighted.
Yes, many mountain passes in the area are excellent for hiking. The trails leading to the Marelli Memorial on Mount Palanzone offer challenging sections with great views. Bocchetta di Luera provides routes of varying difficulty through lush nature. For a more adventurous hike, the Cow Pass offers a challenging, exposed traverse for experienced hikers.
Yes, some passes offer refreshment points. The Colma di Sormano Summit and Observatory serves as a fundamental refreshment point after the climb. While specific cafes directly on every pass might be limited, towns and villages at the base of these passes, including Ponte Lambro itself, offer various dining and accommodation options.


See even more epic mountain passes by checking out these guides around Ponte Lambro: