The best running trails around Varena

You'll find over 25 running routes around Varena, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy lakeside paths, moderate trails, and challenging mountain runs, catering to various fitness levels.

Varena offers a diverse landscape for runners. You can enjoy relaxed jogs along the Lake Como shoreline, including the scenic "Walk of Lovers" (Passeggiata degli Innamorati). For more challenging runs, the hills above Varena provide extensive opportunities with significant elevation changes, often on ancient paths and historic mule tracks like sections of the "Sentiero del Viandante".

Yes, Varena has several easy running options. The lakeside promenades, such as the "Walk of Lovers" connecting the ferry port to the town center, are ideal for relaxed jogs. There's also a pleasant, nearly 4 km section for running between Fiumelatte and Varenna along the SP72 road, which includes a sidewalk, perfect for a leisurely run.

Varena's running routes offer stunning sights. You can jog past the magnificent botanical gardens of Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi. For historical views, consider a run towards Castello di Vezio, perched above the village. The Lake Carezza (Karersee) is also a beautiful highlight in the broader region.

For longer distances and more challenging runs, consider routes that incorporate sections of the historic "Sentiero del Viandante" (Wayfarer's Path), which connects lakeside villages. While not a single route, combining sections can create a rewarding long-distance experience with spectacular views. One challenging route is the Oclini Pass – Lavazè Pass loop from Passo di Lavazè, which is 11.1 miles (17.9 km) long.

The running routes in Varena are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse terrain, from tranquil lakeside paths to challenging mountain trails, and the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.

Yes, there are several circular running routes. A popular moderate option is the Lavazè Pass – Auerleger Alm (Malga Ora) loop from Passo di Lavazè, which is 6.0 miles (9.6 km). For a more difficult challenge, the Laghetto di Daiano loop from Varena covers 7.8 miles (12.5 km) with significant elevation gain.

Absolutely. The hills above Varena provide excellent opportunities for challenging runs with significant elevation changes. Routes like the Lavazè Pass – Pampeago Pass loop from Passo di Lavazè feature over 700 meters of elevation gain, offering a demanding workout and panoramic vistas.

While Varena itself is known for its lake views, the broader region offers impressive natural features. The "Bellano Gorge – View of Varenna loop" is a route that incorporates views of the impressive Bellano Gorge. Other notable gorges in the area include the Latemar Labyrinth and Bletterbach Gorge, which can be part of longer explorations.

Varena offers beautiful running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, ideal for exploring both lakeside and mountain trails. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, making early morning or late afternoon runs more comfortable. Winter running is possible, especially on lower elevation paths, but higher mountain trails may be affected by snow.

Yes, a run from Varenna towards Fiumelatte allows for a scenic detour to Italy's shortest river. This unique natural phenomenon, known for its milky-white waters, provides a picturesque backdrop for a peaceful run or a short break.