On the suggestive road between Como and Bellagio among panoramas of indisputable charm we also find the Orrido di Nesso and its splendid village of around 1200 inhabitants.
Nesso , located at the entrance to the valley of the same name, is renowned for its famous Ravine , located in the hamlet of Coatesa .
The Ravine is visible along the provincial road, especially from Piazza Castello , which offers a panoramic view from above.
During the summer months, the square is frequented by tourists and motorcyclists who admire the spectacular 200 meter waterfall. It is advisable to pay attention to the limited availability of parking in the square and to consider the possibility of parking along the provincial road, reaching the site on foot.
The Nesso Ravine , originating from the deep natural gorge at the mouth of the Tuf and Nosè Valleys , is formed by the confluence of the two streams of the same name. The waters follow a path through narrow gorges and rock jumps, culminating in the famous waterfall .
The difference in altitude from the waterfall to the waters of the lake is approximately 200 metres.
Visitors who wish to fully explore the Ravine can undertake the descent via over 340 steps that lead to the shores of the lake.
The staircase offers spectacular views of the lake as it winds through a narrow alley. Once you reach the banks, you will immediately notice the picturesque medieval bridge , also known as Ponte della Civera , which offers a privileged perspective on the Ravine .
Keen eyes could spot ancient mechanical systems in the vicinity of the Ravine , evidence of a time when the power of water powered factories and factories. Nesso drew industrial vitality from the Orrido .
This place is mentioned in history books, with Leonardo da Vinci describing it in his Codex Atlanticus . Renowned painters of Lake Como , such as Federico and Carolina Lose in the 18th and 19th centuries, immortalized the Orrido di Nesso in their etchings.
In the literary field, Giambattista Bazzoni mentions him in the novel " Falco della Rupe o la Guerra di Musso ". The Civera bridge was also the location of some scenes of Alfred Hitchcock , " The Labyrinth of Passion ".
Reaching Nesso is extremely simple and practical for those leaving from Milan , Como , Varese and Lecco . The distance between Nesso and Como is approximately 16 kilometres, easily accessible via the A8 (Autostrada dei Laghi) .
After reaching Como , just follow the signs for Bellagio along the SP583 to arrive in Nesso in just 30 minutes. It is possible to park the car at the beginning of the town and continue on foot or, with a bit of luck, find a place in Piazza Castello , where there is a suggestive viewpoint.
For those who prefer to travel by public transport, there is the possibility of reaching Como by train and then taking the bus. The recommended lines are the C30 Como-Bellagio SPT Line or the C32 Como-Piano del Tivano SPT Line .
Alternatively, from Como it is also possible to reach Nesso by boat via the CB1 Como-Bellano line (Navigation of Lake Como) .
Some boats that connect Como to Colico stop in Nesso ; it is advisable to carefully check the route and times before purchasing the ticket. Choosing the means of transport best suited to your needs will make the experience of visiting Nesso even easier and more pleasant.