Travelinformation by Rosa Maria Lamberti

Chiesa San Martino Above the Magical Lake Como

Ciao amici, every visitor to Lake Como knows the little church of San Martino above the village of Griante, because you can’t miss it.

In the Foodsteps of Adenauer

The pilgrimage church is situated on an unreachable looking rock, about 475 feet above Lake Como.

But as so often, appearances are deceptive. Even the former German Chancellor Adenauer in his old age visited this church on every Sunday, when he spent his vacations in the Villa Colina, in Cadenabbia.

Parco Naturale Oasi di San Martino

From the parking lot on the lakeside you need about an hour to walk. The well-marked and relatively comfortable path leads you through the Parco Naturale Oasi di San Martino.

First, the trail climbs uphill through the woods over numerous wide steps. Then the trail passes fragrant meadows. Rare species of birds prey nest in the steep rock faces. Who knows, maybe you can even watch the flight of a proud eagle.

At the wayside you find some small chapels. They represent the Mysteries of the Rosary. Halfway of the hike you will come across a slightly larger chapel, the Capella degli Alpini, dedicated to St. Carlos.

Sturdy Shoes and Tasty Snacks

Even though the path to San Martino is not a difficult mountain hike, I recommend you to wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes. You need also a backpack with drinks and a tasty snack. Arriving at your destination you can enjoy a picnic and the dreamlike panorama.

Wonderful Views

The gorgeous lake lies far below. The 2609 meter high Monte Legnone and the over 2400 meter high peaks of the Grigne are greeting you from the east bank. You have a wonderful view of Bellagio and on a clear day almost as far as Lecco.

Believe me amici, you’ll never forget this view.

Tanti saluti e a presto
Rosa Maria Lamberti