Como Lake: Valmasino and Preda Rossa Full-Day Hike

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Italy, the Como Lake: Valmasino and Preda Rossa Full-Day Hike offers an unparalleled adventure for nature enthusiasts. Traversing through alpine meadows, dense forests, and awe-inspiring vistas, this moderate-difficulty trek promises an experience that delights the senses and invigorates the soul. From the serene Parcheggio Preda Rossa trailhead to the inviting Lodge Cesare Ponti, hikers will be treated to stunning panoramas of the surrounding peaks, diverse flora, and the chance to uncover the enchanting legends that have captivated travelers for generations. Whether you’re seeking a challenging outdoor excursion or simply a chance to learn about the breathtaking splendor of the Italian Alps, this journey promises an unforgettable day of discovery.

Key Points

• This full-day hike from Como Lake to Valmasino and Preda Rossa covers approximately 9 km and has a moderate difficulty level of E/T2.
• The hike features scenic vistas of Monte Disgrazia and its glacier, diverse plant life, regional cuisine, and wildlife sightings.
• The itinerary includes a 2-hour car journey, 2.5-hour hike to Lodge Cesare Ponti, and a 2-hour return hike, with a total hiking time of around 4 hours.
• The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Como Lago train station, professional photography, and trekking poles, but food, drinks, and gratuities are not included.
• The hike is not recommended for pregnant women or those with low fitness levels, and proper attire and equipment are required for the varied terrain and weather conditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

This full-day hike takes adventurers on a journey to the picturesque Como Lake, specifically the Valmasino and Preda Rossa regions.

Priced at $271.51 per person, the activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance as well as the option to reserve now and pay later.

Duration-wise, the hike lasts one full day and covers roughly 9 km with an elevation gain of 600 m. Hikers can expect a moderate challenge, classified as level E/T2 in difficulty.

The experience highlights include discovering glaciers, alpine meadows, regional cuisine, and potential wildlife sightings, all while enjoying scenic views of Monte Disgrazia and its glacier.

Itinerary Details

The hike begins with a 2-hour car journey from the pickup location to the Parcheggio Preda Rossa trailhead.

From there, hikers will embark on a 2.5-hour trek to reach the Lodge Cesare Ponti, where they’ll take a 2-hour return hike.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy an aerial view for around 30 minutes, covering a total distance of 9 km with an elevation gain of 600 m.

The total hiking time is approximately 4 hours, and the difficulty level is considered medium (E / T2).

Hikers should be prepared for the moderate terrain and elevation changes throughout the day’s adventure.

Experience Highlights

Hikers can discover a breathtaking array of glaciers and alpine meadows throughout the full-day excursion. They’ll learn about captivating alpine legends and have the chance to sample delectable regional cuisine.

With a bit of luck, hikers may even spot wild animals roaming the rugged terrain. The scenic highlight is the stunning view of Monte Disgrazia and its glacier, which looms majestically over the landscape.

Nature enthusiasts will delight in the diverse flora, including the enchanting carnivorous plants found in the peat bogs. This immersive experience allows adventurers to fully appreciate the grandeur and wonder of the Italian Alps.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off services from the Como Lago train station, as well as a professional photoshoot to capture the day’s highlights.

Trekking poles are provided if needed, though participants must bring their own jacket and hiking shoes.

Food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included in the tour price. This ensures travelers only pay for the essential elements of the excursion, leaving room in the budget for enjoying regional cuisine and tips for exceptional service.

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Important Information

Certain physical and medical conditions make this hike unsuitable for some participants. Pregnant women, individuals with low fitness levels, and those with mobility impairments should avoid this trek.

Proper attire, including a jacket and hiking shoes, is necessary for the varied terrain and changing weather conditions.

The meeting point for this excursion is in front of Bar Pasticceria Vittoria, which can be easily located on Google Maps.

Trekking poles are available if needed, but food and drinks, as well as gratuities, aren’t included in the tour price.

Participants should be aware of these important details to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the Como Lake: Valmasino and Preda Rossa Full-Day Hike.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Depending on the selected tour option, participants can be picked up from the Como Lago train station.

Alternatively, the hike departs from the Parcheggio Preda Rossa parking lot, which is approximately a 2-hour drive from the starting point.

Upon completion of the day’s excursion, hikers will be dropped off at locations within Como or Lecco, such as Largo Giacomo Leopardi, 10.

The convenient pickup and drop-off options make it easy for travelers to access the trailhead and return to their accommodations after the hike.

Whether starting from the train station or the parking lot, the tour provides a seamless transportation experience for participants to fully enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of the region.

Difficulty and Terrain

While the Como Lake full-day hike covers a moderate distance of 9 km, the terrain poses a moderate challenge, classified as E / T2 difficulty. Hikers can expect an elevation gain of 600 m over the course of the trek, which includes both ascents and descents through alpine meadows and past glaciers. The trail can be rocky and uneven in sections, requiring sturdy hiking boots and poles for stability. However, the scenic views and natural wonders encountered along the way make the moderate effort well worth it for adventurous trekkers.

Criteria	Description
Difficulty	E / T2 (medium)
Elevation Gain	600 m
Distance	9 km
Terrain	Rocky, uneven sections

What to Bring

Hikers embarking on the Como Lake full-day trek should bring along a jacket to prepare for the varying weather conditions they may encounter throughout the day.

Plus, sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are essential for navigating the rocky and uneven terrain along the trail.

It’s also a good idea to pack a lightweight backpack to carry any extra layers, snacks, and water.

Trekking poles can provide additional support and stability, especially during the steeper sections of the hike. While the tour includes the use of trekking poles if needed, hikers may prefer to bring their own familiar equipment.

Remember to dress in breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to stay comfortable as you ascend and descend the mountain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

No, pets are not allowed on this hike. The terrain and duration of the hike make it unsuitable for bringing pets along. The activity is designed for human participants only to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch and Snacks?

You’ll need to bring your own lunch and snacks for the hike. Food and drinks aren’t provided, so plan accordingly by packing a hearty meal and plenty of snacks to fuel your adventure.

Is There a Minimum Group Size for the Hike?

There’s no minimum group size for this hike. The tour can accommodate solo travelers as well as small or large groups. Hikers will be provided with any necessary equipment like trekking poles if needed.

Can I Receive a Refund if I Cancel Within 24 Hours?

You can receive a full refund if you cancel the activity within 24 hours of the start time. This flexible cancellation policy allows you to plan your trip with confidence and change your plans if needed.

Is There an Option to Extend the Hike or Explore Additional Trails?

Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the hike or explore additional trails on this particular tour. The itinerary appears to be set and focused on the main Como Lake and Preda Rossa hike. Extending the experience may require booking a separate tour.

Recap

The Como Lake: Valmasino and Preda Rossa Full-Day Hike offers an unforgettable alpine adventure.

Travelers can expect stunning glacier views, diverse flora, and the chance to spot wildlife while savoring regional cuisine and learning about enchanting legends.

With a moderate difficulty level and a 600 m elevation gain, this 9 km hike from Parcheggio Preda Rossa to Lodge Cesare Ponti promises an exhilarating and rewarding experience in the breathtaking Italian Alps.

You can check if your dates are available here: