
In the northern part of Lombardy , precisely at the end of Lake Como , lies the Pian di Spagna and Lago di Mezzola Nature Reserve.
This territory offers a unique ecosystem capable of conquering you with its natural beauty, the variety of animals and singular panoramas.
The area is characterised by a vast wetland area with a succession of lakes , rivers and cultivated fields , inhabited by a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
The Pian di Spagna in Colico is recognized as one of the most important nature reserves in Italy , testifying to its ecological importance.
For those who want a simple day trip to Lombardy or are passionate about birdwatching , I highly recommend exploring this fascinating area, full of easily accessible paths and itineraries , suitable even for the little ones.
This article is intended as a complete guide on what to do and see in the Pian di Spagna Reserve , providing information on how to get there and the different routes available . The choice of which route to take is entirely yours!
If you're looking for places to visit in and around Colico , including a visit to the Pian di Spagna Nature Reserve is highly recommended.
The Pian di Spagna extends in the northern part of Lombardy , between the Valtellina and Valchiavenna valleys.
This humid plain , covering less than 1600 hectares, extends between Lake Mezzola and the head of Lake Como , bordered by the Adda and Mera rivers . It involves the provinces of Como and Sondrio , including the municipalities of Sorico, Gera Lario, Dubino, Verceia and Novate Mezzola.
The territory of the oasis , located at an altitude of 200 meters, is flat but surrounded by the scenic mountains of the Alpine arc . To the northwest rise the Lepontine Alps , to the northeast the Rhaetian Alps and to the south the Orobic Alps.
Among the granite peaks of the Rhaetian Alps are the Valle dei Ratti and the Val Codera , with an unusual route along the tracks of an ancient narrow-gauge railway.
Have you explored the Tracciolino Trail yet ? If you haven't, I highly recommend taking this hike!
Location Pian Di Spagna, 22010 Gera Lario Como, Italy
The Pian di Spagna nature reserve is easily reached by car from Milan , Como , or Lecco by taking the SS36 state road towards Colico . From Como , you can also get there by driving along the Como shore of Lake Como along the SS340 Regina road.
If you're traveling by train on the Milan (central station) / Tirano line , you can get off at Colico to take the southern nature trails . If you'd like to visit the northern part of the reserve in Colico , you'll need to change trains towards Chiavenna , stopping at Novate Mezzola.
It is possible to visit the reserve for free in all seasons. However, I advise you to avoid excessively hot summer days as it can be difficult to find shelter within the plains.
If your interest is in birdwatching, the recommended months to spot birdlife are November and May. At these times of year, thousands of birds rest and feed within the protected area before embarking on their autumn or spring migration.
The entire territory is flat and free of obstacles, making it an ideal option for families with children.
Some routes are also suitable for those who use a stroller, such as some sections of the Valchiavenna cycle/pedestrian path in the southern part of the reserve, in the direction of the mouth of the Adda.
However, the climb to the Sasso di Dascio panoramic point can present some difficulties due to a slight slope and the rough road. If you decide to undertake this route, it is advisable to equip yourself with a backpack or baby carrier.
For lovers of excursions in nature, I invite you to follow the link to discover further suggestions on trips out of town with children in Lombardy.