Location
Longone al Segrino lies in the Triangolo Lariano, on the small Lago del Segrino.
History
The village was probably already inhabited in Celtic times, with confirmed evidence from the Roman era. Fortified in the Middle Ages (no trace remains of a castle), it belonged to the Feudo della Corte del Casale together with Canzo and Caslino d’Erba. In 1865 the name was extended with “al Segrino” to distinguish it from Longone Sabino and to recall the lake that defines it.
What to see
- Lago del Segrino, among the cleanest lakes in Lombardy, its turquoise waters fed only by underground springs: it has an equipped lido, a cycling and walking path of about 5 km, and a rowing-boat and pedal-boat rental service. The whole area is protected as the Parco del Lago del Segrino — the walking loop around the lake is an easy hike suitable for families.
- The Canonica di San Fedele, of very ancient origins although the current building dates from the 16th century.
- The Church of Santa Maria, an old oratory also used as a plague hospital in times of epidemic.
- Villa Ambra, where the writer Carlo Emilio Gadda spent his childhood and adolescence.
What to do and excursions
The Fontanavilla trail runs along the western shore of the lake; the Scioscia trail climbs towards the mountain of the same name (652 m), while those seeking wider views can climb Monte Cornizzolo.
Getting there
A direct connection (Longone-Ospedale-Beldosso stop) reaches Erba station in about 7 minutes; the C149 and C190 bus lines also pass through Eupilio and Canzo. By car, take the SP41.
Festivities
24 April, San Fedele, patron saint of Longone al Segrino.