SEPTEMBER on the lake
September arrives, the warmth of summer softens, making it the perfect time to explore Lake Como on foot. The cooler temperatures and stunning scenery offer an ideal setting for discovering the many walks and hikes around the lake. Whether you're seeking a gentle stroll through charming villages or a more challenging hike with panoramic views, Lake Como has something for every nature lover.
Exploring Lake Como's Scenic Walks and Hikes
Lake Como is a hiker's paradise, with trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. Here are some of the best walks and hikes to explore during your September visit:
1. Greenway del Lago di Como
Length: 10.5 km (6.5 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Description: The Greenway is a well-marked path that takes you through some of Lake Como's most picturesque villages, including Colonno, Sala Comacina, Ossuccio, and Lenno. This leisurely walk offers breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings, passing by historic sites, charming villas, and ancient churches. It's a perfect way to soak in the beauty of the region at a relaxed pace.
2. Sentiero del Viandante
Length: 45 km (28 miles) – Can be broken into sections
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: The Sentiero del Viandante, or Wayfarer's Path, is one of the most famous hiking trails in the area, stretching along the eastern shore of Lake Como. This historic route dates back to Roman times and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. The trail can be tackled in sections, with popular starting points in Varenna, Bellano, and Lierna. Each segment offers its own unique blend of natural beauty and historical interest.
3. San Martino Church Hike
Length: 1.5 km (1 mile)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This short but steep hike starts from the town of Griante and leads to the small, picturesque church of San Martino, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the lake. The trail offers incredible views and is a favorite among both locals and tourists. It’s a relatively quick hike, but the views from the top are nothing short of spectacular.
4. Brunate to Torno Hike
Length: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: Starting from the hilltop village of Brunate, accessible by funicular from Como, this hike takes you through beautiful forests and along ridge paths with stunning lake views. The trail descends into the charming village of Torno, where you can relax by the water or enjoy a meal at one of the local trattorias before catching a ferry back to Como.
5. Monte Grona Hike
Length: 4.5 km (2.8 miles)
Difficulty: Challenging
Description: For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the hike up Monte Grona is a must. Starting from Rifugio Menaggio, the trail climbs steeply but rewards hikers with some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Lake Como, the Alps, and even Lake Lugano. The ascent is challenging, but the breathtaking scenery from the summit makes it well worth the effort.
Ingredient of the Month: Anchovies (Acciughe)
September is the perfect time to celebrate one of Lake Como’s most beloved ingredients: anchovies. These small, flavorful fish are a staple in Italian cuisine, known for their intense umami taste that adds depth and richness to a wide range of dishes. Sourced from the nearby Mediterranean, anchovies are a key ingredient in many traditional Lake Como recipes.
Here are some classic Italian ways to enjoy anchovies:
Bagna Cauda This warm dip from the Piedmont region, made with anchovies, garlic, and olive oil, is perfect for dipping fresh vegetables or crusty bread. The anchovies melt into the oil, creating a rich, savory sauce that's both comforting and delicious.
Anchovy and Herb-Infused Butter A simple yet elegant recipe that combines the intense flavor of anchovies with fresh herbs and butter. This versatile spread can be used on crusty bread, melted over grilled meats, or tossed with pasta, adding a gourmet touch to any meal.
Insalata di Acciughe A refreshing salad of marinated anchovies, fresh greens, tomatoes, and olives, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. This light and flavorful dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine and is perfect as a starter or light meal.
Bruschetta with Anchovies and Stracciatella A delightful twist on the classic bruschetta, this version features creamy stracciatella cheese topped with anchovies and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The contrast between the rich cheese and the salty anchovies makes for an irresistible appetizer.
RECIPE OF THE MONTH: Spaghetti alle Acciughe e Pangrattato
This month, we're bringing you a classic Italian pasta dish that highlights the rich, savory flavor of anchovies in a simple yet unforgettable meal. Spaghetti alle Acciughe e Pangrattato is a perfect example of how a few high-quality ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Ingredients:
400g spaghetti
6-8 anchovy fillets in olive oil, drained and chopped
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (or to taste)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably homemade)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the breadcrumbs:
In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the anchovy sauce:
In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and heat over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili flakes, cooking gently until the garlic is soft and fragrant but not browned.
Add the chopped anchovy fillets and stir, breaking them down with the back of a spoon until they melt into the oil, creating a rich, savory sauce.
Combine and serve:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the anchovy sauce. Toss well to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Stir in the toasted breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and freshly chopped parsley if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnishing with extra breadcrumbs and parsley as desired.
Why We Love It: The Spaghetti alle Acciughe e Pangrattato is a beautiful example of cucina povera, the Italian tradition of making the most of simple ingredients. The anchovies add a depth of flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the bright lemon zest and the crunchy, toasted breadcrumbs. It's a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, making it a perfect meal for a cozy September evening by the lake.
Pair this dish with a glass of Soave Classico, a crisp and versatile white wine from the Veneto region. Its floral and citrus notes complement the savory richness of the anchovies and the bright lemon zest, creating a well-balanced pairing that enhances the flavors of the dish.
We look forward to sharing more culinary adventures with you next month!
See you on the lake,
The Lake Como Kitchen Experience Team