We arrived at Varenna to be told there’s a castle we might like to visit. However, what we didn’t know was that it was about a 40min steep hike up the hill to get there! We’re fairly fit individuals but it had been raining the morning and the cobblestones up the hill were wet and slippery. That said, the hike up was pleasant as we were surrounded by lush greenery and got to see some lovely architecture of local residences. The view from the castle was wonderful. The castle itself is probably not quite the grand structure one would imagine of castles in the traditional sense of the word. However, it’s worth a visit if you’re already in the area and wouldn’t mind a climb.
I decided to visit Varenna for the second time in one month as it is a stunning place. The first time around I didn't get to visit the castle so I wanted to this time. The hike up the mountain is by far the best hiking experience I've had. The views are breathtaking. That day the castle was closed but it didn't matter as it was a great experience to go up there. Do note that if you're not in good shape, or have difficulties with movement, it is a tough 30-40min walk up the mountain with narrow rocky stairs. From what I could see the castle looked beautiful. I recommend continuing the hike. As you go down the road follow the sign to a waterfall and you'll find more amazing views and delightful waterfalls by the mountain.
This is a historic castle with the added interest of housing a falconry. Getting to it is a challenge by foot as one needs to be fit enough to undertake a stiff climb. You are advised to take the path on the station side of the village as it is paved all the way up albeit with the local round stones. The alternative is to go by car to a point where there is only a short walk largely on the level. The reward is a wonderful view of the lake from the top of the keep.
The view is well worth the 1 hour walk uphill.Do not miss outAnd do not forget your camera. Best landscape in the world
I thought I had already seen unbeatable views of Lake Como but nothing compared to the view from the castle grounds. Given the height and location, it offers a more panoramic view of the lake. The castle itself is disappointing and there were only two birds to see, so this visit is all about the view and well worth the four euros. Getting to the castle is tricky. I cannot advise the best way to do this since I got lost and ended up on the Sentiero del Viandante. (This trail included walking on the edge of windy roads up the mountain, various switchbacks, walking though an old village and finally the woods before leading to the town of Vezio). It was a challenging despite being in good shape. On my way down from the castle to the ferry terminal I saw there was a straightforward single cobblestone path, which I suppose is what I was supposed to take on the way up! I imagine that would have been significantly easier.
Varenna was, probably, my favourite of the villages we visited during a week long stay at Lago di Como in May 2013. We started our visit with a ferry ride from Bellagio. The approach is stunning, so make sure your camera is out and you're in a good position for the photographs you will not be able to stop yourself from taking (still trying decide which ones are the best more than a year later).From there, we stopped off for a light lunch at a little lake shore cafe - where we were joined by some friendly ducks, who were keen to share it with us - then climbed up through the narrow streets to the main town square, the Pizza San Giorgio, which is flanked by the picturesque Chiesa di San Giorgio.We walked past - but decided not to visit - the Villa Monastero, opting instead to climb up to the Castello di Vezio. And it's quite a climb.Before you reach the Castello, the Chiesa Di Saint Antonio Abate Di Vezio - a quaint stone church - is worth a visit.The Castello itself is an ancient, Roman fortress, now mostly a ruin. It is used to house a breeding and nursing centre for birds of prey and there are exhibitions most days. It also has exhibits of fossils of the Lariosauro - Lago di Como's very own monster. The day we visited, a wedding was being held - but we were still able to enter the grounds and explore the keep. And those views...There is a small cafe selling cold drinks - and we certainly needed a cold beer after the hike up to the hill.Don't miss Varenna - and the Castello - if you are visiting Lago di Como.
The view from the castle is nice. The walk up was OK but a bit hard if you are pregnant (like my wife was) or with young kids. The castle is not that big of a highlight. If you are with kids there are wild birds at the entrance to the castle.
We walked up to the Castle from Varenna town centre - this took about 30 mins and was well worth it. A really interesting castle with a great history. There is also stunning views from the top over Lake Como - fully recommend this. Make sure you carry on to the waterfall too if you're visiting from March to October (the waterfall typically dries up after Oct).
All very nice - only 4 euros entry - was too early for any falconry display so cant comment Not much actually there - but boy those views
The hike to the castle can be done one of two ways. We chose to take the path that began at the Hotel Eremo Gaudio. The path was easy to find, easy to follow and though not ultra challenging would not be recommended for those not in good shape. I loved the way the trail was perched above an olive grove and looped under an ancient stone bridge. Once at the castle itself the views are amazing. I was not aware there would be wooden sculptures on display on the castle grounds, an added bonus of beauty.