Moltrasio on Lake Como: Churches, Trails and Water

Moltrasio on Lake Como combines sacred art, historic trails, waterscapes and activities on the lake. The town can be explored through its churches and districts, as well as via Pizzallo, the views over the lake’s first basin and special experiences on the water. This allows you to combine cultural interests, walks and active excursions in a single trip.

Connected to the lake

Several ferries and hydrofoils on the Como–Colico route stop in Moltrasio. When choosing a hotel, this boat connection may be a relevant consideration if you would like to include the lake in your travel plans. A special event is the Traversata del Lago di Como, which takes place every year in the evening at the end of July, from Torno to Moltrasio. Organised by Canottieri Moltrasio, the swimming event is non-competitive. Anyone wishing to experience the lake by kayak can find a course at Kayak Moltrasio that includes a practical sea-kayaking excursion to the Lido and back to the base.

Churches, squares and Lombard architecture

The Oratorio di San Rocco stands on the waterfront square of the same name, opposite the landing stage. 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 Vignola district along the route of the ancient Via Regia. In the central Borgo district there is also the Church of Saints Martin and Agatha.

A 1507 polyptych by the artist Alvise de Donati is located on a side altar. Together with Moltrasio’s church circuit, it creates a cultural route combining art, spirituality and views of Lake Como. The circuit is therefore particularly suitable for visitors who want to experience not only individual buildings, but also connect sacred sites and the landscape in a leisurely walk through the town.

Traces of crafts and everyday life

The ancient quarries of Moltrasio are still visible along the Sentee di Sort. Villa Salterio Erker is also one of the town’s notable historical landmarks: it was the residence of composer Vincenzo Bellini (1801–1835), who drew inspiration from the waters of Pizzallo. A visit to the Casa della zia Ernesta reveals objects and interiors that illustrate Moltrasio’s former alpine shepherding and farming life.

Pizzallo connects natural and economic history. The waterfall at Pizzallo is associated with the Valley of the Mills, as it was called in the 19th century; as early as 1722, Pizzallo powered the wheels of 11 mills along the course of the stream. Below the houses of Borgo, a stream plunges down in an impressive drop, continues visibly for a short distance, joins Pizzallo and finally flows into Lake Como. The Ponte del Rusca is probably the oldest bridge in Moltrasio’s Valley of the Mills.

Views and trails into the mountains

A viewpoint in Moltrasio offers views over the first basin of Lake Como and the neighbouring towns. For hikes, a traditional mountain path leads to Rifugio Bugone, beginning in the Tosnacco district of the municipality of Moltrasio. The route from Tosnacco to Rifugio Bugone is suitable for all types of hikers and can be walked year-round; in winter, suitable equipment such as snowshoes and poles is required. The range of routes therefore extends from a church circuit focused on culture to a mountain connection whose seasonal requirements should be taken into account when planning.

Places for further travel planning

If you would like to combine Moltrasio with other destinations, you will also find Montorfano, Maslianico, Albogasio, Careno, Erba, Plesio, Magreglio and Uggiate-Trevano here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Como.