Pian del Tivano, a karst plateau at around 1,000 metres between the municipalities of Nesso, Sormano and Zelbio, is one of the most convenient starting points for reaching Monte Palanzone, the second-highest peak of the Triangolo Lariano after Monte San Primo. The route crosses the pastures of Piani di Nesso and passes the historic Rifugio Riella, run by the Como section of the Italian Alpine Club, before the final climb to the pyramid-shaped chapel that crowns the summit. It is a hike suited to those with some experience walking in the mountains, best done from spring to autumn; anyone starting from Nesso can stop beforehand at the Orrido di Nesso, the spectacular gorge in the centre of the village.
From Pian del Tivano to Piani di Nesso
The hike starts at Pian del Tivano, reachable by car from Sormano via the Colma di Sormano pass, or from Nesso via Zelbio. From here a wooded stretch — or the road, as an alternative — leads to Piani di Nesso, the mountain pasture at 938 metres that is also the starting point, from the Nesso side, for those climbing up from the Ponte del Nosé.
To Rifugio Riella and the summit of Monte Palanzone
From Piani di Nesso the route continues towards Rifugio Riella, at 1,275 metres on the slopes of Palanzone: built in 1908 and now run by the Como CAI section, it is a mountain hut reachable only on foot, with overnight beds. The final stretch climbs to the summit of Monte Palanzone (1,436 m), where the pyramid-shaped Cappella del Redentore marks the high point of a view stretching over Lake Como and, on the clearest days, the Po Valley.
Practical information
- Starting point: Pian del Tivano, reachable by car from Sormano or from Nesso.
- Overall elevation gain: around 440 m, from about 1,000 m at Pian del Tivano to 1,436 m at the summit.
- The specific Piani di Nesso–Rifugio Riella–Palanzone stretch does not currently have a single official figure for timing or distance in kilometres: before setting out, it is advisable to consult a hiking map of the Triangolo Lariano or contact Rifugio Riella directly.
- Rifugio Riella is reachable on foot only; opening dates vary seasonally.
- Equipment: hiking boots, water and layered clothing, given the elevation.
