Montorfano: Nature by the lake and local history

Montorfano can be explored through several specific themes: nature by the lake, local history and a historic golf course. The Riserva Naturale Lago di Montorfano is central to the nature reserve theme; the Church of San Giovanni Evangelista and former ice houses add cultural and historical interest. When choosing what to explore, you can consider whether you are especially interested in the landscape, a walk along the shore or the history of the town.

Lake Montorfano and its nature reserve

The Riserva Naturale Lago di Montorfano was established by the Regional Council of Lombardy by resolution no. 1796 of 15 November 1984. It covers 89 hectares, 51 hectares of which are occupied by the lake. The nature reserve extends across Montorfano and Capiago Intimiano in the Province of Como. The figures therefore distinguish between the total area of the reserve and the portion occupied by the lake.

Lake Montorfano is the smallest of the Brianza lakes. Dense reed beds line almost all of its shores and provide a refuge for several bird species. The area’s natural character is therefore shaped both by the protected land and by the lakeshore, with its reed beds and bird habitats.

Lakeside path, woodland trail and swimming

A lakeside path along Lake Montorfano can be reached from the roads in the town of Montorfano. The full circular route is about 4 km long and is considered an easy walk. The rules of the nature reserve are also important when choosing a route: the lower lakeside path is closed to through traffic because it crosses sensitive habitats. The upper woodland trail runs through the wooded area of the Riserva Naturale and is also open to bicycles. The two paths therefore differ both in location and in permitted use.

Swimming is also subject to an important restriction: the rules permit swimming throughout Lake Montorfano; however, before swimming, you must check with the municipal administration or the ATS to find out where it is actually permitted.

Church history and former ice houses

The Church of San Giovanni Evangelista offers a glimpse into another period of the town’s history. The first records of it date back to 1044. In 1578, the church was rebuilt from the ground up. San Carlo consecrated the church and its main altar on 12 July 1582. These dates mark different milestones: the first records, the rebuilding and the consecration.

The former ice houses are also part of local history. The oldest, called “Giazerùn,” lies southwest of Cascina Incastro; today, only ruins remain. Montorfano’s former ice houses were located in the immediate vicinity of the lakeshores. In general, they were circular structures built in cool locations, sometimes partly below ground level. These features give an impression of how they were built without implying that all the individual structures were identical.

The golf course in Montorfano

Circolo Golf Villa d’Este is located at Via per Cantù 13, 22030 Montorfano (CO). Its 18-hole golf course was designed by architect Peter Gannon in 1926. Alongside the early dates associated with the church, the town’s history thus also includes a specific year for the design of the golf course.

Discover more destinations: Grandate, Laglio, Sormano, Albiolo, Trezzone, Faggeto Lario, Cassina Rizzardi, Canzo

For the broader travel overview: Como.