Montorfano on Lake Montorfano

Montorfano between Lake, Forest and History

Montorfano lies on Lake Montorfano, the smallest of the lakes in Brianza. The nature reserve was established by resolution no. 1796 of 15 November 1984 by the Regional Council of Lombardy. It covers 89 hectares, of which 51 hectares are occupied by the lake, and extends across Montorfano and Capiago Intimiano in the Province of Como.

The landscape is strongly shaped by the water and the lakeside areas. Dense reed beds line almost the entire shore of Lake Montorfano and provide a retreat for several bird species. From the roads in the town of Montorfano, you can reach a lakeside path. The complete circular route is approximately 4 km long and is considered an easy walk—an accessible way to experience the landscape at a leisurely pace.

For orientation on the paths, it is important to distinguish between the different shore sections. The upper forest path, which runs through the woodland area of the Riserva Naturale Lago di Montorfano, is also accessible to bicycles. The lower lakeside path, on the other hand, is closed to through traffic because of the sensitive habitats through which it passes. In this way, the lake reveals itself not only as an excursion destination but also as a protected habitat with different areas.

Swimming is also subject to a special regulation: the rules of the Riserva Naturale Lago di Montorfano allow swimming throughout Lake Montorfano. At the same time, you must ask the municipal administration or the ATS about the areas where swimming is actually permitted. This local demarcation is therefore part of planning how to use the lake.

Churches and Evidence of Local History

San Giovanni Evangelista is one of Montorfano’s historic points of interest. The church has been documented since 1044 and was completely rebuilt in 1578. San Carlo consecrated the church and its main altar on 12 July 1582. The three dates—1044, 1578 and 1582—mark different stages of its history and give the area a clearly recognisable historical dimension alongside its natural landscape.

The former icehouses of Montorfano are also part of the area’s distinctive history by the lake. They stood in the immediate vicinity of the lakeshore, were generally circular structures built in cool locations, and were partly constructed below ground level. The oldest icehouse is named “Giazerùn” and lies southwest of Cascina Incastro; only ruins remain today.

Further Interests around Montorfano

Golf is also firmly established in Montorfano. Circolo Golf Villa d’Este is located at Via per Cantù 13, 22030 Montorfano (CO). The 18-hole golf course there was designed by architect Peter Gannon in 1926. In addition, Parco Valle Lambro offers special projects relating to the Riserva Naturale Lago di Montorfano. The educational trails in protected areas, including the reserve, are open not only to schools in the area but also to other interested educational institutions.

For further travel planning, you can combine Montorfano with these destinations in the same broader area: Cerano D'intelvi, Cavallasca, Vercana, Cremia, Como, Cagno, Germasino, Carugo.

Back to the main travel overview: Como.