Lake Darengo lies on a glacial plateau at about 1,780 metres, in the heart of Val Darengo, in the municipality of Livo. It is one of three alpine lakes within Livo’s territory, together with Lago di Caorio and Lago di Leda, and the destination of one of the longest and most remote mountain hikes in Alto Lario.
What to see
The lake is reached after climbing through Alpe Darengo, in a natural amphitheatre ringed by rocky peaks. On a knoll close to the shore stands Capanna Como, the oldest refuge of the Como CAI section. The lake is a stage on the Alta Via del Lario, the multi-day trekking route that crosses the mountains above Lake Como.
Getting there
On foot only: the trail starts from the Crotto Dangri car park, in the municipality of Livo, and climbs for about 4 hours (1,140-1,150 metres of elevation gain) past the Sanctuary of Sant’Anna and the Baggio pastures, before a steeper final stretch up to the lake basin.
Practical information
- EE difficulty (Escursionistico Esperti): not suited to beginner hikers.
- Best season: summer months, given the altitude and length of the route.
- No shelter along the way except Capanna Como at the lake itself (booking required).
