Moltrasio on Lake Como: Culture, Trails and History

Moltrasio on Lake Como brings together boat connections, cultural history and trails through the landscape. If you are looking for a hotel, you can first consider whether your trip will focus more on the lake, historic sites or hikes. The sights and activities offer specific pointers to help you decide.

Boat connections and an event on the lake

Some ferries and hydrofoils on the Como–Colico route stop in Moltrasio. Check timetables and routes before your trip so you can plan around the available connections.

The Traversata del Lago di Como is an annual event. This non-competitive swimming event takes place one evening in late July, from Torno to Moltrasio, and is organized by Canottieri Moltrasio. The exact dates vary from year to year, so check the dates for the year of your trip. For this event, the lake is not just scenery but part of the event route.

Churches, art and local history

Along the Sentee di Sort, the ancient quarries of Moltrasio are still visible, offering a glimpse into local history. On the lakeside promenade, opposite the landing stage, stands the Oratorio di San Rocco in the square of the same name. The small building probably dates back to the 15th century and was restored during the Baroque period.

The Chiesa di Sant’Agata is considered the oldest local example of Lombard-Romanesque architecture in the Moltrasio area. It stands in the hamlet of Vignola, along the route of the ancient Via Regia. The church of Saints Martin and Agatha is in the central hamlet of Borgo. These location details help distinguish the sites described within the municipality.

Villa Salterio Erker is also part of Moltrasio’s cultural history: it was the residence of composer Vincenzo Bellini (1801–1835). The waters of the Pizzallo inspired him. The connection to Bellini adds a link to music history to the architectural landmarks.

Water, mills and bridges

From 1722, the Pizzallo powered the wheels of eleven mills along its course. In the 19th century, the valley was known as the Valley of the Mills. The Ponte del Rusca is believed to be the oldest bridge in the valley. Together, these places point to the historic use of water and the old routes through Moltrasio.

Below the houses of Borgo, a stream plunges down in a striking waterfall. It remains visible for a short stretch, joins the Pizzallo and eventually flows into Lake Como. A viewpoint in Moltrasio offers a view of the lake’s first basin and the neighboring towns.

Trails and views

The church circuit in Moltrasio combines art, spirituality and views of Lake Como. If this combination appeals to you, the circuit offers a different focus from an outing centered mainly on the landscape or the history of the mills.

A traditional mountain trail to Rifugio Bugone starts in the hamlet of Tosnacco. The trail is open year-round and suitable for all kinds of hikers; when there is snow, suitable equipment such as snowshoes and poles is required. As trail conditions can change with the seasons, check them before setting out. This lets you plan your hike based on the actual conditions without assuming a walking time or difficulty level.

Discover more destinations: Consiglio Di Rumo, Arosio, Cantù, Sant Abbondio, Cerano D'intelvi, Garzeno, Trezzone, Montorfano.

For the broader travel guide: Como.