Val d’Intelvi, or Val d’Intelv in Como dialect, is located in the province of Como, in Lombardy,  between Lake Como and Lake Lugano. The valley is bordered by the mountains surrounding it, including Mount Generoso and Mount Bisbino, and is part of the Rhaetian Alps, on the border between Italy and Switzerland.

This valley, characterized by breathtaking landscapes, is ideal for those who want to explore uncontaminated nature and live outdoor experiences in summer and winter or appreciate the quietness that represents it.

It includes the municipalities of Alta Valle Intelvi, Argegno, Blessagno, Campione d’Italia, Centro Valle Intelvi (excluding the hamlet of Erbonne which geographically belongs to the Muggio valley), Cerano d’Intelvi, Claino con Osteno, Dizzasco, Laino, Pigra, Ponna and Schignano and other smaller ones.

Numerous other villages in the area have less than 500 inhabitants.

Val d’Intelvi is easily accessible from Milan, Como, and Lugano and is well connected by provincial roads that connect the valley floor with the surrounding towns.

What to visit in Val d’Intelvi

Val d’Intelvi is a sanctuary for those in search of tranquility, natural beauty, and characteristic villages. 

The serene atmosphere of the valley is sure to bring a sense of calm and peace to your visit.

Among the leading natural tourist attractions, the following stand out:

• Mount Bisbino: The highest peak in the valley, at 1,325 meters above sea level, offers spectacular views of Lake Como and Lake Lugano. At the top is the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Bisbino, a pilgrimage destination and an unmissable panoramic point.
• Lake Lugano: Although it is not within the valley, Lake Lugano is easily accessible and offers natural scenery of extraordinary beauty, with the possibility of taking boat trips or simply enjoying the landscape.
• Historic villages: Villages such as Castiglione d’Intelvi and San Fedele, characterized by stone houses, cobbled streets, and a strong cultural tradition, are a draw for those who want to discover local history and experience the authenticity of the area.
• The “Marco Ceresio” Botanical Garden: Located in the municipality of Cernobbio, it offers a wide variety of Alpine and Mediterranean flora, including rare and exotic species. It is a perfect place for a relaxing walk and to learn about the region’s diverse plant life.

In winter, Val d’Intelvi becomes an ideal destination for snow sports enthusiasts, at least when there is snow. The most famous alpine skiing and snowboarding locations are easily accessible, such as the Piano di Peccia ski resort(in Swiss) or the surrounding areas.

The valley also offers excellent opportunities for snowshoeing or trekking in the snow, with silent and enchanting landscapes.

In addition, sledging and snow tubing enthusiasts will find several dedicated slopes.

The tranquillity of the valley also makes a relaxing stay perfect. Traditional mountain huts can be visited to taste typical mountain cuisine. Local dishes such as polenta, cheese, and meat are popular choices.

During the summer, Val d’Intelvi transforms into a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor activities. The valley offers a wide range of excursions, from leisurely walks to challenging mountain hikes, and is a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts. The variety of activities is sure to excite and inspire your visit.

The surrounding mountains of Val d’Intelvi are a sight to behold, offering endless possibilities for excursions. Whether you’re strolling along the paths that lead to mountain refuges or embarking on more challenging hikes, the breathtaking views are sure to leave you in awe and deeply connected to nature.

One of the most incredible mountain excursions is, without doubt, direct to Sighignola, known as the Balcony of Italy. This name derives from the fact that from this point, you can enjoy a panoramic view that stretches from the Po Valley to the Alps, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

For water sports lovers, Lake Como is easily accessible and ideal for kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing.

In addition, the villages of the valley offer various traditional festivals and celebrations, as the characteristic Christmas markets and Nativity scenes in winter, or the Feast of San Giovanni in Castiglione d’Intelvi, famous for its typical dishes and folk dances, certainly one of the most anticipated events of the summer.

How to reach the Val d’Intelvi

Val d’Intelvi is well connected by road and motorway networks. From Milan, you can get there in about an hour and a half via the A9 motorway (Milan-Como), following the signs for Argegno and then continuing towards the valley. Alternatively, you can take the train to Como station, from where you can take a bus directly to the villages in the valley.

If you arrive from Lugano, the valley is easily accessible by car, passing through the Ponte Tresa border crossing, which connects Switzerland with Italy. Access to Val d’Intelvi is, therefore, very convenient even for those coming from abroad.

Val d’Intelvi is a perfect destination for those seeking an escape from the frenzy of the city, to immerse themselves in nature and discover a corner of Lombardy rich in history and beauty. 

Its mountains, lakes, and picturesque villages offer a wide range of activities both in winter and summer, making it an ideal destination all year round.

The trolleybus

Did you know that there was a trolleybus in Val d’Intelvi?

The project was an ephemeral and pioneering trolleybus system, which, from 1909 to 1922, connected the villages of Val d’Intelvi with the town of Argegno, located on the shore of Lake Como, to facilitate connections.

The first section, from Argegno to Capria, was activated in 1909; the line was supposed to reach Lanzo, where the funicular to Santa Margherita would be reached, but, as with the trolleybus, the necessary capital was not found for this project either.

After the First World War, it was possible to extend the line to Pellio, but in 1922, the trolleybus, expensive and already obsolete, was abolished and replaced by a bus line from Como to Lanzo.

The Intelvi Masters

The Magistri Antelami (or Maestri Intelvi) were an itinerant workforce of Lombard origin, specialized in masonry and carpentry works, documented between the 10th and 16th centuries. 

The masters gathered in a corporation from the 12th century, as demonstrated by their mentions in Genoese notarial deeds starting from 1157. They had well-known skills in the field of sculpture and were active in Italy and Europe.

Among them, we remember Benedetto Antelami and Lorenzo degli Spazzi, who constructed the Milan Cathedral and designed the one in Como.

Andrea Bregno, a native of Claino con Osteno, spent most of his life in Rome, where he was a papal sculptor.

Instead, a great protagonist of the Roman Baroque period was Ercole Ferrata, born in Pellio d’Intelvi, who became one of the main collaborators of Gian Lorenzo Bernini and whose most famous works are visible on the Ponte Sant’Angelo (such as the Angel of the Cross) and in the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone in Piazza Navona. Gian Battista Barberini from Laino was also active in the same period.

If you wish to visit this fantastic valley, you are most welcome to our Hotel Loveno, where we can show you the fastest way to get there and all the events in the program for the period of your stay!

Contact us to discover more info @ hotelloveno.com.

– Sara