The Transformation of the Railroad into a Bicycle Route.
Over the years, the route of the ancient Menaggio-Porlezza railway, active from 1884 to 1939 and officially suppressed in 1966, was partly converted into a cycle track. This route now allows cyclists, walkers and lovers of nature and history to rediscover one of the most fascinating disused railway lines in Italy in a sustainable way.
The bicycle path largely follows the old railroad track, passing through landscapes of extraordinary beauty between mountains, valleys and bodies of water, with panoramic views of Lake Como and, further east, to Lake Piano and Ceresio.
The recovery project and the characteristics of the route
The transformation into a bicycle path began in the 2006, thanks to the joint efforts of local authorities, environmental associations and cycling enthusiasts. Today, the usable track measures about 12-13 km, while not exactly coinciding with the original railroad at every point, due to route changes and disruptions that have occurred over time.
The fund is mixed: partly paved, partly unpaved, with some sections on secondary roadway shared with cars, so it is advisable to be careful, especially with children. The trail includes numerous historical evidences: bridges, tunnels, railway yards and some ancient stations (such as those in Grandola ed Uniti or Piano Porlezza), now converted or left as visible traces of the past.
Among the most striking points:
- The tunnel at the bend between Grandola and Bene Lario.
- The masonry bridge over the Fontanin stream.
- The landscape of the Piano Lake Nature Reserve, crossed in the central part of the route.
Nature, history and slow tourism
The bicycle path is more than just a path: it is a journey through time. Along the way we encounter the following ruins of railway buildings, disused docks and stretches perfectly integrated into the landscape. The interpretive guidance, where present, help to read the industrial past of this railroad line that was created to connect two alpine lakes across an impassable valley.
In addition to historical charm, the bike path offers total immersion in nature. The landscapes change frequently: from chestnut forests to the wetlands of Piano Lake, from open views of the Valsolda to the cultivated hills that announce Porlezza.
The quiet environment, away from the main traffic, makes the route Ideal for families, hikers and cyclists of all levels. Along the way are found Equipped rest areas, benches, scenic spots and picnic areas.
A virtuous example of sustainable tourism
The Menaggio-Porlezza bicycle path has become over the years a model of intelligent land reuse, combining Historical enhancement, soft mobility and local tourism development. It attracts every year hundreds of enthusiasts, including from abroad, who wish to explore Lake Como in an active and environmentally friendly way.
This bicycle route is now considered one of the most fascinating routes in the Lombardy pre-alpine area. È accessible all year round, although the best seasons are spring and autumn, when the vegetation gives the best of its colors.
Conclusions
The Menaggio-Porlezza bicycle path is much more than a path: it is a bridge between past and present, between industry and nature, between local history and international tourism. Cycling on this route means. traverse landscapes that speak of iron, water, forests and men, in one of the most picturesque areas of northern Italy.
If you are in or around Lake Como, don't miss the chance To travel this stretch of history on two wheels or on foot. It will give you authentic emotions, a dip in memory and a day of wellness and beauty.
