Location
Bellano lies on the eastern branch of the lake, just north of the Bellagio headland.
History
Of Roman origin, it belonged to the Archbishop of Milan (who kept a residence there), then to the Torriani together with the territories of Valsassina, then to the Visconti — with the right to draft their own Statutes — and later to the Dal Verme, the Sforza and the Sfondrati.
What to see
- Orrido di Bellano: a spectacular natural gorge formed around 15 million years ago by the erosion of the Pioverna stream, crossed by suspended walkways between sheer rock walls, potholes and waterfalls. At the entrance, the Cà del Diavol today houses an immersive centre exploring local legends through augmented reality.
- Church of Saints Nazarius and Celsus: a national monument, built by the Maestri Comacini in the 15th century.
- Sanctuary of Lezzeno: 1690, Baroque façade.
- Former Cantoni cotton mill: built in Moltrasio stone, an example of industrial archaeology.
What to do
From Bellano you can walk a stretch of the Sentiero del Viandante, towards Dervio or towards Vezio. Inland, you can climb up to Monte San Defendente.
Getting there
The Bellano-Tartavalle Terme station, on the Trenord Lecco-Colico-Sondrio line, is just 32 minutes from Lecco. The Navigazione Laghi boat connects the town to Varenna (17 minutes) and Lierna; by car, follow the SS36 along the eastern shore.
Festivities
28 July — Saints Nazarius and Celsus, patron saints of Bellano.
Practical information
Orrido di Bellano — indicatively open in the spring and autumn months (April-May, October) 10am-7pm on holidays, 10am-1pm and 3pm-6pm on weekdays; wider hours in summer.