Orrido di Bellano
A 15-million-year-old natural gorge with dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and unique wooden walkways.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Orrido di Bellano
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 15-million-year-old natural gorge with dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and unique wooden walkways.
"This natural marvel boasts towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, sculpted by the Pirandello River."
⏳ Allow Time to Absorb
Don't rush! Take time to truly absorb the views; it makes the experience much more impactful.
🎟️ Ticket Purchase Strategy
Consider buying tickets at the location; sometimes online prices are slightly higher.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gorge Walk
Main pathway through the Orrido
Explore a 15-million-year-old natural gorge via suspended wooden walkways, marveling at towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Cascading Waterfalls
Deep within the gorge
Witness the powerful Pirandello River carving its way through rock, creating mesmerizing waterfalls and natural formations.
Bellano Village Charm
Town of Bellano
Discover the authentic, quieter side of Lake Como in Bellano, a charming village with a serene waterfront.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Orrido
Getting There & Tickets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Time to Absorb
Don't rush! Take time to truly absorb the views; it makes the experience much more impactful.
🎟️ Ticket Purchase Strategy
Consider buying tickets at the location; sometimes online prices are slightly higher.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Finding parking in Bellano might be challenging, so plan accordingly.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
The pathways are well-maintained, but comfortable shoes are always a good idea for exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Time to Absorb
Don't rush! Take time to truly absorb the views; it makes the experience much more impactful.
🎟️ Ticket Purchase Strategy
Consider buying tickets at the location; sometimes online prices are slightly higher.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Finding parking in Bellano might be challenging, so plan accordingly.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
The pathways are well-maintained, but comfortable shoes are always a good idea for exploring.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration
Dogs of all sizes are welcome to explore the Orrido with you!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Orrido di Bellano as a breathtaking natural wonder and a highly recommended 'hidden gem' on Lake Como. Many highlight its unique geological formations, cascading waterfalls, and the enjoyable walk along suspended pathways. It's often described as a perfect, albeit short, addition to any Lake Como itinerary, offering a powerful natural experience.
"Short but very exotic stroll through the green and humid springs. Worth a visit.
Right beside this place is a beautiful cemetery garden with a lovely serene ambiance. You can see the Swiss border from there and take some amazing pictures."
Snowbird .L.
"I love this place! Highly recommend to visit. Worth every minute of our 4-hour stay. This complete my Lake Como trip. I want my children and family see this heavenly place in Bellano, Italy. The Orrido di Bellano is one great treasure in Italy. Love it from entrance to exit to souvenirs."
Momaxie Maine
"Bought tickets online prior to our visit so you could skip the ticket office and go straight to the entrance. Before arriving we were lucky to find a parking spot, but I think it can be a problem for some to find a spot.
The Orrido is a relatively short attraction but definitely worth the money (€7,5 per adult). Very beautiful and impressive so a big recommendation from me."
Martin Andreassen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach Orrido di Bellano from Milan by taking a train to Bellano. The journey typically takes less than an hour. 
Yes, Bellano is a stop for ferries on Lake Como, making it accessible from other towns like Varenna.
A short 15-minute train or ferry ride connects Varenna to Bellano, offering convenient access to the Orrido. +1
Parking is available in Bellano, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak season.
Some visitors have reported receiving a discount on the entrance fee when using local public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately €5-€7.50 per adult, with potential slight variations for online bookings. +1
Yes, tickets can be purchased online through their official website, which can help you skip the ticket office queue.
The Orrido is generally open daily from April to September, typically from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours.
The walk through the gorge is relatively short, usually taking around 20-30 minutes, but visitors are encouraged to take their time. +1
Discounts may be available for those arriving via local public transport.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
It's a deep, narrow gorge formed 15 million years ago by the Pirandello River, featuring towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and a unique pathway system.
The pathways are well-maintained and the walk is generally considered easy and suitable for most visitors, including children.
Yes, the Orrido di Bellano is incredibly photogenic with its dramatic natural scenery.
Absolutely! It's a short, engaging walk that kids often find fascinating.
Yes, dogs of all sizes are welcome to accompany you on your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a stunning view, but focus on capturing the interplay of water, rock, and light along the wooden pathways.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting as the sun filters through the gorge, but any time can yield great shots.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate to capture the beauty, but a wide-angle lens can be helpful for the gorge's scale.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Expect dramatic shots of waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and the unique wooden walkways against the narrow gorge walls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure the kids have plenty of space to explore and marvel at the natural wonder. The unique environment is sure to spark their curiosity and provide plenty of 'wow' moments.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Combine your visit with exploring the charming, less-touristy town of Bellano for a more authentic Lake Como experience. It's a perfect half-day excursion that feels like discovering a hidden gem.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Look for opportunities to play with long exposures to capture the movement of the water. While the gorge itself is the star, don't forget to capture the charming village of Bellano as well. The juxtaposition of the natural wonder with the quaint Italian architecture can make for compelling shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Legend of the Orrido
+2 Over centuries, the water has sculpted impressive features like 'marmite' (giant potholes) and intriguing caves within the rock formations. +1 This natural wonder is not just a geological marvel but also steeped in local legends, adding a layer of mystique to its dramatic beauty. The accessible pathways allow visitors to immerse themselves in this ancient landscape. You'll walk along wooden bridges and walkways that cling to the gorge walls, offering unique perspectives of the cascading waterfalls and the sheer rock faces.
The sound of the rushing water and the cool, damp air create a truly sensory experience, a stark contrast to the sun-drenched shores of Lake Como just a short distance away. Many visitors are struck by the sheer power and beauty of the Orrido. It's a place that encourages contemplation and awe, a reminder of nature's enduring force.
Experiencing Bellano: Beyond the Orrido
Bellano is also recognized as one of the 'Borghi più belli d'Italia' (Most Beautiful Villages in Italy), highlighting its picturesque streets and historical significance.
Exploring the town provides a lovely complement to the natural spectacle of the gorge, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of this lakeside community. For those looking to extend their stay, Bellano provides a peaceful base from which to explore other parts of Lake Como. Its accessibility by train and ferry makes it a convenient location, and its less crowded nature can offer a more relaxed vacation experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit