In this post, I will write about an easy walk for the whole family. If you have kids who like to walk and who love the animals, then this is definetely for you. However, also if you simply want to enjoy som efresh air, escape th ehectic city of Milan and you love tasty homemade food, you cannot miss this easy trail. Alpe di Megna offers moments of pure relaxation in the middle of pastures and nature that seems untouched by time.
For this easy hike near Como, set your GPS to Valbrona. Once you arrive in the area, follow the signs to the Visino hamlet. You’ll find a convenient and free parking area near the Church of San Michele, right on Via San Michele; from here, the walk begins as you continue on Via Madonna del Pozzo. Here, you’ll find a board with some explanations about the surrounding areas and the trail, which is called the “Olimna” trail. It will take you directly to Alpe Megna in half an hour.
Walk to Alpe di Megna from Visino
Once you start the trail, you’ll ascend through the woods, covering most of the elevation of this easy hike; the mule track is simple and free of dangers. Shortly after, on your left, you’ll find a small votive chapel dedicated to the Madonna del Pozzo, named after the various water sources that existed here in the past. After a short walk (20 minutes), you’ll reach an animal barrier connected to an electrified fence; don’t worry, just grab the black plastic handles and open it gently. Always remember to close it after you pass.
On your left, you’ll find a small pond that serves as a watering hole, and this is where you will see most of the animals drinking. Cows, goats, sheep, and horses graze freely in the green pasture. If you are with kids, they will surely want to cuddle the animals. They can! Keep in mind that this is not one of many “petting zoos” where kids go on tour and give food to the animals. The animals here are owned by the farmers but they are free in the pastures. You can cuddle them but avoid to feed them. The farmers will not take any responsibility in case of accidents. If you are not accustomed with the farm animals, I advice you to stay close to the sheep and goats who are surely more approachable than he horses or the cows.
Again, it is not an educational farm where someone will guide you, don’t expect that. The beauty of this place is that the animals are free. They are accustomed to have people around but they are still free animals. If you pass the pond and continue straight you will see the village of Megna.
The village of Megna and the erratic boulder
After crossing the plain, you’ll have to pass through another electrified gate. Again, just open it gently. What you will find ahead of you are the ancient stone houses. If you walk through the village, remember that these homes are privately owned. You can take pictures of them but don’t enter the properties unless you get invited. Nowadays not many people live in this community but those who do live here, are very friendly and some can be very happy to offer you a glass of fresh juice or coffee.
Continuing uphill and following the signs, in about 40 minutes you can reach the summit of Monte Megna, where a cross was installed for the Jubilee. Form here you will enjoy the view over the Triangle of Lario.
As said at the beggining, this trail is highly raccomanded to food lovers. At Alpe di Megna, you’ll find the farm of the same name that offers its own products. You can buy the home made delicious yogurts, cheese and other products. It’s totally worth to come here for lunch: the seasonal menu, great wine and tasty cakes are waiting for you but remember to book in advance because the space is limited.
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