Sand, driftwood smoothed by the current and shells make up the almost seaside-like landscape of Spiaggia Selvaggia, in Colico, between the mouth of the Adda river and the Montecchio Nord hills. As its name suggests (“wild beach”), this stretch of shore has been deliberately kept free of any facilities, to preserve its unspoiled character: no bars, play areas or equipment, just trees reaching right down to the sand and waterbirds swimming offshore, an unusual scene for an alpine lake. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking absolute tranquillity and direct contact with nature, perhaps together with their dog, free to roam off the leash in this secluded corner of Lake Como.
Getting there
It can be reached on foot from Colico, following the Sentiero Valtellina towards Spiaggia Ontano and then continuing for about 500 metres along the lakeshore to the wooden bridge marking the entrance; Colico railway station is about one kilometre away.
Practical information
- There are no facilities or lifeguard supervision: bring everything you need from home.
- The lake bed can get relatively deep in places: keep an eye on children.
- Dogs are welcome off the leash.
- For comfort and refreshments after a swim, the nearby Spiaggia Ontano, a few hundred metres away, offers a bar, restaurant and play area.