The best walks and hikes around Belgirate

Belgirate offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 600 routes available for exploration. These range from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging ascents on the slopes of Motta Rossa.

Hiking around Belgirate features diverse terrain, including ancient mule tracks, serene chestnut woods, and paths winding through forests and terraced slopes. Many routes offer stunning panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding hills.

Yes, Belgirate has numerous easy trails. For instance, the Monte alle Croci – Chapel of Saint Christina loop from Lesa is an easy option, as is the Lavatoio di Calogna – Chapel of Saint Christina loop from Brovello-Carpugnino. These routes are generally shorter and have less elevation gain, making them suitable for a relaxed outing.

Yes, you can find several circular routes. A popular choice is the Chapel of Saint Paul – Church of San Bartolomeo loop from Brovello-Carpugnino, which takes you through forests and small towns. Other loops like the Monte alle Croci – Chapel of Saint Christina loop from Lesa also offer a round trip experience.

Many trails offer breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore. You can also explore ancient chestnut woods, particularly along routes like the Chestnut Trail: Stresa to Belgirate. Historical traces such as ancient mule tracks, small towns like Magognino and Calogna, and sites linked to the ancient Lepontii population, including the Church of San Paolo and 'cup and ring' stones, can be discovered.

The hiking trails around Belgirate are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 5,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning Lake Maggiore views, the peaceful ancient chestnut woods, and the well-preserved historical mule tracks that connect charming villages.

Absolutely. Many trails provide excellent viewpoints overlooking Lake Maggiore, extending towards the Rocca d'Angera and even the lakes of Varese and Monate. The walk to Monte Croce, for example, rewards hikers with far-reaching views from the clearing near the Church of Santa Cristina.

After your hike, you can visit the charming town of Arona on Lake Maggiore. For expansive natural beauty, consider exploring Lake Varese. If you're looking for a different perspective, the View from Sasso del Ferro offers another stunning panorama.

Belgirate is well-connected, and some trails, particularly those connecting to nearby towns like Stresa or Lesa, can be accessed via public transport. For example, the linear routes between Stresa and Belgirate can be combined with a charming boat return trip on Lake Maggiore.

The region is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with autumn being particularly stunning as the chestnut woods change color. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, making lakeside paths or shaded forest trails ideal.

While many trails are moderate or easy, more challenging options are accessible from Belgirate for experienced trekkers. For instance, the nearby Monte Mottarone Park offers more adventurous treks with significant elevation changes, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness.