Trip Notes - World Expeditions

lake como rambling
active
europe
for you
1
2
3
GRADE:
4 5
TRIP COST
Joining Como :£770
Trip Concludes: Varenna
Founded in 1973, Sherpa Expeditions is specialised in self‑guided and escorted holidays throughout
Europe and across the globe. We offer a wide range of self‑guided inn‑to‑inn walking and cycling tours,
escorted walks, as well as Walker’s Britain, a pioneering collection of over 20 British walking tours
which include the Coast‑to‑Coast Trail and Hadrian’s Wall. We have refined self‑guided holidays to
an art. Over many years, our leaders, local representatives and clients have all contributed to the
detailed trail notes provided to walkers, making them the definitive guide to the areas we visit, which
includes 16 iconic European walking destinations across France, Spain, Italy, Cyprus and much more.
Sherpa Expeditions has now joined forces with UTracks <http://www.utracks.com> and the World
Expeditions Travel Group <http://www.worldexpeditions.com> to bring you the most exciting and
extensive range of active European holidays available, all at great value. This means you have access
to over 300 active itineraries covering more than 25 European countries, from Iceland to Greece,
and from Ireland to Cyprus. UTracks offers affordable, self‑guided and small group‑guided active
holidays across Europe. Choose from a wide variety of quintessential European outdoor experiences
from trekking the French Alps, cycling through Tuscany, exploring the islands of Greece, Croatia or
Turkey by bike and ship, making a pilgrimage along the Compostela Trail, or discovering the lesser
known trails in Bulgaria, Romania, and Slovenia. UTracks offers many family‑friendly itineraries and
can also tailor make tours for private groups. Cycling or walking, 2‑star or 4‑star, small groups or
self‑guided, land or sea, introductory level or more challenging ‑ Sherpa Expeditions and UTracks can
help you explore Europe exactly the way you want.
TRIP NAME:LAKE COMO RAMBLING
Austria
TRIP CODE:JCO
All prices are per person TRIP DURATION:8 DAYS
OPTIONS & GRADE TEXT:MODERATE ‑ 3
SUPPLEMENTS
ACTIVITY:SELF‑GUIDED WALKING
Switzerland
Lake Como
H - High Season
Supplement:£35
ACCOMMODATION:7 NIGHTS HOTELS
Menaggio
Italy
single supplement:£190 DATE DETAILS:
DAILY FROM 1 MAR TO 23 NOV
As the trip price is based on twinshare,
a single supplement is payable if a
single room is required ‑ or a single
traveller supplement if you are travelling
solo*. Please refer to the price options
for costs or ask our office for details.
Note regarding single rooms ‑ The
single supplement guarantees the
privacy of your own room, however,
rooms can at times be small and in
some places may not enjoy the same
facilities as double/twin rooms.
*The single traveller surcharge is only
available on trips deemed suitable
for solo travellers. It is usually more
expensive than the single supplement
due to the extra cost for luggage
transfers and organisation.
Solo Traveller Supplements are payable
when the cost per bag of moving
luggage increases. Please ask us for
costs if you are a solo traveller.
IMPORTANT NOTES
H - High Season
DN1 - High Season Surcharge
April - Oct 2017
highlights
The Chic and Charm of ‘Bellisimo’ Villages
Classic Alpine Scenery
Lakeside and Mountain trails
the trip
Lake Como is a gorgeous blue watery ribbon carved between the adjacent mountains, for a length
of 46km, during the last ice age by powerful glaciers. It has an average depth of 154m but at its
deepest dives to 410m. It branches into two legs at a junction between the attractive villages of
Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio on opposing lakeshores. At the end of the western limb of the lake
is the attractive city of Como, which is the starting point of this tour. The area was no secret to the
Romans who once built villas along its length, and many of the wealthy came to retire by the lake.
Many of these villas have admirable gardens which benefit from the mild climate induced by the
stabilising presence of 22.5km³ of lake water and are able to include tropical as well as temperate
plants. With the advent of resort type tourism from Victorian times, hotels were built for wealthy
European and American tourists who promenaded around the lake shore and into the surrounding
hills. You too can discover the attractions and beauty of the area with the selection of walks, ferry
crossings and variety of hotel locations.­
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lake como rambling
itinerary at a glance
Day 1
Arrival in Como
Day 2
To Torno, optional ascent of Monte Boleto 9.5 -13 km/6-8 miles, 3.5-5 h
Day 3
Como to Breglia. Town walk approx 2 h, then short circular walk 2.5 km/1.5
miles, 1 h
Day 4
Breglia to Rifugio Menaggio circular walk 10.5-13 km/6.5 - 8 miles, 3.5-5.5 h
Day 5
Ferry to Varenna, walk ‘Sentiero del Viandante’ 8.5 km/5.2 miles, 4.5 h
Day 6
Northern stretch of the ‘Sentiero del Viandante’ up to 19.5 km/12 miles, 4.5 h
Day 7
Lago di Como 7-11km/4 - 7 miles, 2.5-4 h (various options)
Day 8
Arrangements end after breakfast
detailed itinerary
Note: Extra nights in any hotel along Lake Como can be booked to allow you more time for discovery
‘en‑route’. These nights must be requested at the time of booking.
DAY 1Arrival in Como
Make your own way to Como. Visit the very interesting historic town centre which
includes palaces, the Duomo, the Basilica of Sant’Abbondio and beautiful public
gardens. Maybe stroll along the lake to soak up the tranquil old world atmosphere.
You may wish to book an extra night in Como. There are many villas and estates to visit.
Go and see Villa Olmo and Villa D’Este as well. Travelling by boat to some other lake
side villages in this southern part of the lake is also a worthwhile experience.
Accommodation: Two nights are spent in a centrally located 3 star hotel, only a short
distance from the train station.
meals: NIL
DAY 2To Torno, optional ascent of Monte Boleto 9.5 -13 km/6-8 miles, 3.5-5 h
Take the Funicular up to the village of Brunate and begin a wonderful panoramic walk
along a well kept path along the ridge, high above Lake Como, with views on both sides.
Have a panoramic coffee break in Brunate, and there are also many great viewpoint
spots for a good picnic, especially if you choose to walk to the summit of Monte Boleto
(1238m). At the ruins of a medieval castle descend towards the lake again and continue
down to the pretty village of Torno and then take the boat back to Como.
meals: B
DAY 3Como to Breglia. Town walk approx 2 h, then short circular walk 2.5 km/1.5 miles, 1 h
The first part of the day is dedicated to the old town of Como, renowned for its
Romanesque churches, its wonderful Duomo, medieval town walls and frescoed
churches. It is also known for its impressive villas, its fine ‘fin-de-siècle’ hotels and its
rationalist and even fascist architecture along the lake shore. Stroll through the alleys
and along the lake to get the real feel of the city. From Como you travel, taking your
luggage with you, by boat just after lunch to Menaggio, admiring all the charming villages
from the lake. In Menaggio your taxi meets you and takes you up to the mountain village
of Breglia, along a panoramic road. After settling into the hotel, take a first stroll to
Madonna di Breglia, a ‘church with a view’, and then on to San Domenico, a shrine with
an even better one! Return to your hotel to relax on the terrace and breathe in the fresh
mountain air. Distance today varies due to the options taken.
Accommodation: In this small hamlet, you stay for two nights in a comfortable 2-star
hotel high above the lake, in the mountains above Menaggio.
meals: B,D
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DAY 4Breglia to Rifugio Menaggio circular walk 10.5-13 km/6.5 - 8 miles, 3.5-5.5 h
Directly from your hotel in Breglia you take a circular walk which brings you up to
a mountain hut above Menaggio. The walk is relatively easy, but nonetheless offers
unforgettable views of the lake! First you walk through the old part of the village, then
beautiful forests and of course you come across a number of spectacular viewpoints
over Lake Como. A last steep section brings you up to the mountain hut where it is
possible to have lunch. A short walk brings you to the saddle of ‘Pizza Coppa’ from
where you can admire the whole region, from Lake Como to Lake Lugano (Switzerland).
An optional detour takes you to the top of Monte Grona (1736m), but this is steep,
scrambly and above the general grading level of this tour. Taking a gradually descending
path, with still spectacular views on Lake Como and the surrounding mountains, you
return to Breglia.
meals: B,D
DAY 5Ferry to Varenna, walk ‘Sentiero del Viandante’ 8.5 km/5.2 miles, 4.5 h
A car takes you down to Menaggio, from where you take the boat (taking your luggage
with you) to the charming village of Varenna, deemed ‘Italy’s most romantic village’,
and then up to your hotel, but you will need to be prepared to start the walk when you
arrive, or spend a while in the village. Varenna has inspiring views of the lake and the
distant mountains and brightly painted houses adorned with flower-filled balconies, a
bustling waterfront and a maze of meandering cobble-stoned streets. It is a delightful
place to explore. Take a walk on one of the historical pathways of the area, the so-called
‘Sentiero del Viandante’, which brings you to the curious ‘Fiumelatte’, Italy’s shortest
river. This was researched by Leonardo de Vinci. Continue if you wish on steeper paths
to Lierna, a quiet town on the lake shore, before returning by train to Varenna. Or
perhaps you’ll just want to relax and eat in a trattoria somewhere in the village.
Accommodation: Your last three nights are spent in a very good 3 star hotel
meals: B
DAY 6Northern stretch of the ‘Sentiero del Viandante’ up to 19.5 km/12 miles, 4.5 h
Today you walk the northern stretch of the ‘Sentiero del Viandante’. There are several
options: you can either walk a shorter or longer stretch. From Varenna you walk to
Bellano, which has an optional short gorge section (admission fee), from there on to
Dervio which has a small medieval quarter. From here you can take a train back to
Varenna, or take a short there and back walk further on along the lake to the romantic
medieval village of Corenno Plinio, sitting on Lake Como with its castle and tiny harbour.
Views over the water from this path are marvellous and you move through a pretty
terraced landscape. Those who wish can combine the walk with a visit by train and
bus to the abbey of Piona, one of the most intriguing places by Lake Como. This can
be increased by visiting the abbey or reduced by returning to Varenna from Bellano by
train or ferry.
meals: B
DAY 7Lago di Como 7-11km/4 - 7 miles, 2.5-4 h (various options)
Today you can visit the whole central section of the Lago di Como by boat. Buying a
ferry pass for about 15E gives you all day access. According to your interests there
are several spots where you just ‘must’ go such as the splendid Villa Carlotta, with its
beautiful gardens overlooking the lake, charming Menaggio and of course Bellagio, ‘The
Pearl of the Lake’, situated on Punta Spartivento, where the two arms of Lake Como
meet. Here you can take an incredibly scenic walk through delightful countryside and to
the charming fishing village of Pescallo and up to the scenic hamlet of Visgnola. Down
at the lake you walk back along the wonderful gardens of Villa Melzi. Then there is time
to explore any number of the local villages by boat, or relax with a drink somewhere on
the lake shore, before returning to the hotel.
meals: B
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DAY 8Arrangements end after breakfast
Depart Varenna after breakfast.
meals: B
additional supplements
At the time of booking we aim to offer our usual choice of accommodation, however if these are
not available then alternatives are used (and on occasion a small supplement may apply). If these
are of a different standard and / or a supplement applies you will be informed on confirmation of
your booking.
inclusions
breakfasts, 2 dinners
7
nights 2‑3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
7
2 transfers Menaggio‑Breglia (on day 3 and 5)
Information pack including route notes & maps
Emergency hotline
items not included
5 dinners, all lunches & beverages
Luggage Transfer
Entrance fees
Travel insurance
Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip
Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
City Tax 2‑4 Euros per day, per person locally payable to the accommodations
trip grading - moderate
Moderate. Most of the trails are well maintained. Some of these walks have shorter versions, which
include only the sections on easy, mostly paved paths, clearly visible and easy to follow. Longer options
are available for some of the walks (e.g. days 2, 4, 5 and 6), with some steeper climbs and descents on
rougher surfaces. Fitness: Clients should have a reasonable level of fitness and should be able to walk
for up to 4½ hours during a day for easier options and longer for moderate grade walks. Snow may be
encountered especially early in the season and up to late June at the highest levels.
way marking
Only some of the routes are marked with red/white marks or with signs. Elsewhere it is necessary to follow
the route descriptions provided, together with the maps.
route notes
Please note that one set of route notes per room booked is included in the cost of the holiday. If you
require more sets of notes then there is a charge of £30 per set ordered. For bookings received four
weeks or less prior to the tour departure, courier fees may be applicable to ensure you receive your final
documentation in time. As rates are variable, please contact your consultant for details. Sherpa will try to
avoid these costs where possible.
extending your trip
It is possible to include extra nights in any of the towns en route. Details and prices on request.
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meal inclusions
7 breakfasts and 2 evening meals are included. You are free to organise your dinner from the wide choice
of restaurants in the area. No picnic lunches are included in the tour price. Materials for picnics can be
purchased in the villages where you stay. Also it is possible on all walking days to have lunch in the
villages, or mountain hamlets that you pass through. In countries such as Italy breakfasts usually consist
of coffee and croissants; sometimes, bread rolls, yoghurts, ham and cheese as well. If you want more for
breakfast then we would suggest you purchase some food the night before. Special Dietary Requirements:
It is important for you to tell us if you have any dietary requirements when you book your holiday so that
we can inform everyone that you are staying with.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically
recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well
in advance to determine whether we can cater on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are
likely to be limited in remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be
times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. Passengers must travel
with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering these medications.
accommodation
DURING TOUR
Accommodation is on a bed and breakfast basis in 2 & 3 star hotels. All rooms have ensuite facilities.
The hotels described are our usual choice of accommodation, however if these are not available then
alternatives are used and if these are of a different standard you will be informed at the time of booking.
Baths/showers: Many rooms with ensuite/private facilities have a shower rather than a bath, usually
because of limited space. A City tax is payable directly to each hotelier and varies between 2‑4 Euros per
person per day.
check in/out
It is generally normal practice when staying in hotels that you check‑in on or after 2pm and checkout by
10am the following morning. Guesthouses/bed & breakfast establishments are normally check‑in on or
after 4pm and checkout by 10am.
luggage
Luggage transfer is not included on this itinerary. Luggage is to be taken with you when you make your
way to your next hotel. We do not offer porter service on our holidays. You must be able to move your
own luggage to and from your rooms. This more than likely involve stairs as many of the properties we
stay in do not have lifts. Sometimes your luggage will have been taken to your room awaiting your arrival
however do not be surprised if it is waiting for you to take up to your room and you are asked to bring it
down again the next morning.
language
When traveling in less frequented areas you will not necessarily come across people speaking English.
Remember you are experiencing a different culture, buy a phrase book and try to learn a little of the local
language!
getting there
BY TRAINThe Malpensa Express train departs from Malpensa Airport’s terminal one
to downtown, from where there is a regular train service from Milan Central
railway station to Como, taking about an hour.
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BY AIRYour closest airports to Como are Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate. Catch the
shuttle bus or train from Malpensa to the downtown train station and from
here you catch the train to Como. From Linate catch the bus to Milan Centrale
Railway Station to catch the train to Como.
BY BUSYou can catch the SPT BUS from Malpensa to Como. There are three daily
departures.
TRANSFER SERVICEA transfer with private taxi from Milan or the airport can be arranged on request.
1‑3 people = approx 150E
BY FERRY/BOATThe itinerary requires the use of ferry services to travel between hotels. The
cost of these is not included in the holiday cost as it is not practical to supply
tickets. These are easily purchased at the waterside before boarding the boats.
The cost of the two transfers is 10 – 15 Euros per person; the faster ferries are
the more expensive option.
insurance
All clients must have appropriate cover for the activities included for the duration of our trip.
fast facts
COUNTRIES VISITEDItaly
VISASVisas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for
up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www.
schengenvisainfo.com/schengen‑visa‑countries‑list/ for countries part of the
Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen
area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the
Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport
holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days
in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending
most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there
is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in
obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements.
MIN GROUP SIZE1
MAX GROUP SIZE20
how to book
To book this trip go to our website to make a booking online or download our booking form. A booking
form can also be found at the back of our Active Europe brochure. If you complete a paper booking form,
email, fax or post the form to our office – contact details can be found on our website.
e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure
news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, www.
sherpa‑walking‑holidays.co.uk or contact our office.
social networks
You can make sure you are up to date with all our latest information by liking, following or pinning us on
the following social networks:
facebook.com/Sherpa‑Expeditions <http://www.facebook.com/Sherpa‑Expeditions>
http://twitter.com/Sherpa_Exp or @Sherpa_Exp <http://twitter.com/Sherpa_Exp>
www.pinterest.com/sherpaexp <http://www.pinterest.com/sherpaexp>
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IMPORTANT NOTE
THESE TRIP NOTES REPRESENT THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR THIS
ITINERARY,AND SUPERSEDE ANY INFORMATION DETAILED IN THE CURRENT BROCHURE,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE ITINERARY AND PRICE.
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