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, variety of animals and singular panoramas .
The area is characterized by a vast humid area lakes , rivers and cultivated fields follow one another , 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 relevance.
For those who want a simple trip out of town in Lombardy or are passionate about birdwatching , I highly recommend exploring this fascinating area, full of paths and itineraries , suitable even for the little ones.
This article is intended as a complete guide on what to do and what to see in the Pian di Spagna Reserve , providing information on how to reach it and the different routes available . The choice of which path to take is entirely yours!
If you are looking for places to visit in and around Colico , the inclusion of a visit to the Pian di Spagna Reserve is highly recommended.
The Pian di Spagna extends in the northern part of Lombardy , between the Valtellina and Valchiavenna .
This humid plain , covering less than 1600 hectares, extends between Lake Mezzola and the top of Lake Como , bounded 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 north-west rise the Lepontine Alps , to the north-east the Rhaetian Alps and to the south the Orobic Alps .
Among the granite peaks of the Rhaetian Alps are the Valle dei Ratti and Val Codera , with an unusual route along the rails of an ancient narrow-gauge railway .
Have you already explored the Tracciolino path ? If you haven't done it yet, I highly recommend you take this excursion !
Location Pian Di Spagna, 22010 Gera Lario Como, Italy
The Pian di Spagna reserve is easily reachable by car from Milan , Como or Lecco along the SS36 state road towards Colico . From Como , you can also get there by going along the Como side of Lake Como via the Regina SS340 road .
If you travel by train on the Milan (central station) / Tirano , you can get off at Colico to take the southern nature routes . If you want to visit the northern part of the reserve in Colico , you have to change trains towards Chiavenna with a stop in 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.
© Larius Way – Made with love on Lake Como – Project by Digimatica Sagl