Top 20 Lakes around Colico
Best lakes around Colico include Lake Como and Lake Mezzola, both accessible from this northern Lake Como town. Colico is situated at the northern end of Lake Como, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The area features the iconic Lake Como and the nearby Lake Mezzola, providing diverse experiences. This location serves as a base for exploring the surrounding natural landscape and historical sites.
Best lakes around Colico
- The most popular lakes is Lake Mezzola, a lake located north of Lake Como, separated by the Mera river. In 2020, samples in two points of the lake gave excellent results for bathing.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Como, a lake offering views of the Swiss Alps. Colico provides access to this Italian lake, known for its swimming opportunities.
- Visitors also love Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Nature Reserve, a natural monument that joins Lake Mezzola with Lake Como. This wetland is known for its biodiversity and provides a setting for nature observation.
- Colico is known for large lakes, natural reserves, and viewpoints. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from large bodies of water to protected wetlands.
- The lakes around Colico are appreciated by the komoot community. The guide features 9 highlights with more than 380 upvotes and 70 photos from community members.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Lake Mezzola
Highlight • Lake
The Mera's inlet flow rate is around 20 cubic meters per second, outflow of around 24, thanks to the contribution of the other tributaries which, despite having a relatively short course, bring a fair volume of water to the lake.
In 2004 the Ministry of Health classified Lake Mezzola as non-swimming. The regional environmental agency in 2016 classified the chemical state of the lake as "not good", due to high concentrations of chromium and other metals.
From the government water health portal, in 2020 the samples in two points of the lake (in front of the Corsican campsite and South Arsena) gave excellent results for bathing.
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San Bernardo Chapel
Highlight • Religious Site
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Lake Como
Highlight • Lake
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Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
The vegetal landscape is dominated by reed beds. There are also mixed broad-leaved forests and large agricultural areas used for pasture or corn plots.
An ideal place for nesting many birds, Pian di Spagna offers an ideal setting for nature lovers who want to spend a peaceful day, also taking advantage of the proximity of important tourist locations.
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Church of Saints Eusebius and Victor
Highlight • Religious Site
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Popular around Colico
Away with the train – cycle paths within an hour of Milan
Away with the train – trekking an hour from Milan
From the lake to the mountain slopes – Sentiero Valtellina
Ride the trail from Lake Como to Bormio — Valtellina Trail
Hiking around Colico
Cycling around Colico
Road Cycling Routes around Colico
MTB Trails around Colico
Running Trails around Colico
Gravel biking around Colico
Other adventures around Colico
Tips from the Community
cycle path to Chiavenna, whoever wants can also reach Switzerland. Road always safe: very short stretches with cars. Asphalt road, dirt stretches ok MTB or gravel. Have fun
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Be careful, you will sometimes be swarmed by goats here.🐐🐐🐐
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Great views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains are worth the trip!
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Just being here and admiring the landscape is worth the trip and the effort...
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The Pian di Spagna Nature Reserve is a beautiful flat area, a destination for many migratory birds. It is a Site of Community Importance (Sic) which is part of the European Ecological Network "Natura 2000", created to include the complex of places characterized by the presence of both animal and plant habitats and species of community interest.
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The route suggested in komoot from the Chapel of St. Bernard to the north is, in my opinion, too dangerous. It is better to head west into the valley
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes accessible from Colico?
Colico provides access to the iconic Lake Como, known for its stunning views and swimming opportunities, and the nearby Lake Mezzola, which is part of an important nature reserve.
Are there good spots for swimming or bathing in the lakes near Colico?
Yes, Lake Como offers various swimming opportunities, particularly in places like Domaso. For Lake Mezzola, samples taken in 2020 indicated excellent results for bathing at two points, including the area in front of the Corsican campsite and South Arsena.
What natural reserves can I explore near Colico's lakes?
The most notable is the Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Nature Reserve. This significant wetland joins Lake Mezzola with Lake Como and is known for its rich biodiversity, especially for bird nesting, offering a tranquil setting for nature observation.
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes in Colico?
Yes, both Lake Como and Lake Mezzola offer family-friendly experiences. The Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Nature Reserve is an ideal spot for families to enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature.
Where can I find the best viewpoints of Lake Como near Colico?
For spectacular panoramic views of Lake Como, consider visiting the San Bernardo Chapel, located at an altitude of 1105 m, or the Church of Saints Eusebius and Victor in Peglio, which sits on a promontory overlooking the lake.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near the lakes?
The area around Colico's lakes offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including moderate routes like the "Mouth of the Adda and Fort Fuentes - Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Nature Reserve" or the "Piona Peninsula Loop Trail." For cycling, there are MTB trails such as "MTB between Lake Como and Foce dell'Adda." Explore more options in the Hiking around Colico and MTB Trails around Colico guides.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes in Colico?
Yes, the region is rich in history. While not directly on the lakes, historical sites like Fort Montecchio Nord and Forte di Fuentes are nearby, offering panoramic views. The Romanesque Piona Abbey, located on the Olgiasca peninsula, also provides a peaceful retreat with spectacular lake vistas.
What makes Colico a good base for exploring the lakes?
Colico is strategically located at the northern end of Lake Como, providing easy access to both Lake Como and Lake Mezzola. It offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical exploration, serving as a convenient hub for excursions while providing a quieter experience compared to more bustling southern towns.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes around Colico are nestled between the lake and the Orobie Alps, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks. You'll find charming lakeside promenades, beautiful beaches, and the significant wetlands of the Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Nature Reserve, characterized by reed beds and mixed broad-leaved forests.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Colico?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and diverse activities. Many enjoy the clear waters and favorable winds for water sports on Lake Como, the tranquil nature observation in the Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Nature Reserve, and the stunning views from various viewpoints overlooking the lakes and the Swiss Alps.
Are there any circular walks around the lakes near Colico?
Yes, you can find circular routes that allow you to experience the lakeside scenery. An example is the "Piona Peninsula Loop Trail," which is a moderate hike. More details on this and other routes can be found in the Hiking around Colico guide.
Most popular routes around Colico
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