Sorico: Wetland, Churches and Paths on Lake Como

Sorico can be explored through several themes: the Pian di Spagna – Lago di Mezzola nature reserve, the Mera's mouth at Lake Como, historic churches, and the routes of the Via Regina and the Via dei Monti Lariani. If you would like to include nature observation, landscapes and culture in your travel plans, you will find a range of starting points here.

Wetland and Waterfowl

The Pian di Spagna – Lago di Mezzola nature reserve was created to provide migratory birds with a safe resting and nesting place. At the same time, it protects the landscape and the natural features of its wetland. A viewing point in the reserve can be reached via a short path. From there, you can look out over large parts of the area and observe numerous waterfowl up close. In Sorico, nature is therefore a central theme that makes visible not only the landscape but also its function as a habitat.

The Mera River flows into Lake Como near Sorico; Monte Legnone can be seen in the background.

Paths with Different Historical Traces

The Via Regina runs along the section from Sorico to Gera Lario and Aurogna via paths, paved mule tracks, asphalt roads and, in some places, village streets. For your planning, the changing nature of the route is therefore particularly relevant. The Via dei Monti Lariani follows the western shore of Lake Como as far as Sorico. Both routes connect the town with longer stretches along the lakeshore and through the surrounding landscape, without overlooking the differences in their surfaces and sections.

Churches, Frescoes and a Romanesque Temple

The Chiesa di San Miro stands on a plateau on the slopes of Monte Berlinghera and offers views of Sorico and the lake. It is connected to the historic Via Regina by a short mule track. Inside, the church preserves a rich fresco decoration created in several phases from 1452 onward.

The Chiesa di Santo Stefano in Sorico was built in 1443 and extensively remodelled at the beginning of the 18th century. On the western shore of Lago di Mezzola, there is also the Romanesque temple of San Fedelino, whose origins are traditionally dated to the transition from the 10th to the 11th century. These buildings complement the natural experiences with different historical periods and religious connections.

Learning in the Landscape

At Cascina Poncetta, environmental education activities and age-appropriate learning trails are organised for groups and schools. This focus combines engagement with nature with an explicitly educational approach. When choosing a hotel in Sorico, you can therefore first consider whether waterfowl observation in Pian di Spagna, the churches and frescoes, or the various routes should be the main focus of your trip.

Discover More Destinations

For further travel planning, you can also explore Luisago, Pellio Intelvi, Colonno, Dizzasco, Zelbio, Albese Con Cassano, Mozzate and San Fedele Intelvi.

For the higher-level travel overview: Como.