Fiumelatte
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Fiumelatte
Fiumelatte has only a very small number of hotel-style options, with most local accommodation consisting of lakeside apartments and B&Bs close to the railway line and the lakeshore. For established full-service hotels with stronger facilities and a higher volume of guest reviews, nearby Varenna offers the most reliable selection.
In Varenna, Hotel Royal Victoria is one of the standout choices, providing an elegant lakeside stay with historic character, refined communal areas and consistently strong guest satisfaction (€€€€). Hotel Villa Cipressi, also in Varenna, offers terraced gardens, panoramic views and polished hospitality, making it a popular choice for guests seeking a scenic and atmospheric setting (€€€€). For those preferring a modern alternative nearby, Hotel Griso Collection in Malgrate features contemporary rooms, lake views and dependable service standards, earning positive feedback for comfort and convenience (€€€).
In Varenna, Hotel Royal Victoria is one of the standout choices, providing an elegant lakeside stay with historic character, refined communal areas and consistently strong guest satisfaction (€€€€). Hotel Villa Cipressi, also in Varenna, offers terraced gardens, panoramic views and polished hospitality, making it a popular choice for guests seeking a scenic and atmospheric setting (€€€€). For those preferring a modern alternative nearby, Hotel Griso Collection in Malgrate features contemporary rooms, lake views and dependable service standards, earning positive feedback for comfort and convenience (€€€).
Where is
Where is Fiumelatte?
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The lakeside location of Fiumelatte is situated in the Province of Lecco, on the shores of Lake Como. It's a part of the Comune of Varenna and is located a distance of 80 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Fiumelatte has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Villa Monastero, Lierna, Bellano and Dervio. |
Fiumelatte - frazione di Varenna
What People Ask About Fiumelatte
Is Fiumelatte worth visiting?
Yes, Fiumelatte is a small village near Varenna, known for having one of the shortest rivers in Italy. It offers a unique natural feature and access to walking trails above Lake Como.
What is the Fiumelatte river?
The Fiumelatte is a short river, around 250 metres long, which flows from a cave in the mountain directly into Lake Como. Its name comes from the milky colour of the water, caused by limestone.
How do you get to Fiumelatte?
Fiumelatte has its own train station on the Lecco to Colico line. It’s also walkable from Varenna via a scenic path along the lake or by car via the SP72.
When is the river visible in Fiumelatte?
The river usually appears between March and October, depending on seasonal rainfall and snowmelt. It often dries up in winter, reappearing in spring with strong flow.
Are there walks near Fiumelatte?
Yes, the Sentiero del Viandante passes above the village, offering views of the lake. There is also a short uphill path to the river’s source and other trails linking nearby villages.
Related links
Discover
Discover Fiumelatte
Fiumelatte is a small lakeside hamlet on the eastern shore of Lake Como, just south of Varenna. It takes its name from the short river that runs through it, noted for its white, frothing waters as it flows into the lake from the nearby hills. The settlement itself is compact, with houses gathered close to the water and the railway line that passes along this side of the lake.
The highlight of the area is the Fiumelatte stream, one of the shortest rivers in Italy, which descends from the Grigna range before reaching the lake. Its intermittent flow has been recorded for centuries and adds to the character of the place. While small in scale, Fiumelatte is well connected by rail and road, with easy access to nearby towns such as Varenna and Lecco, as well as routes north towards the Valtellina Valley.
The highlight of the area is the Fiumelatte stream, one of the shortest rivers in Italy, which descends from the Grigna range before reaching the lake. Its intermittent flow has been recorded for centuries and adds to the character of the place. While small in scale, Fiumelatte is well connected by rail and road, with easy access to nearby towns such as Varenna and Lecco, as well as routes north towards the Valtellina Valley.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Fiumelatte
- Fiumelatte Stream: The village is named after the Fiumelatte, one of the shortest rivers in Italy, which flows for only about 250 metres before entering Lake Como. Its name, meaning “milk river,” comes from the bright white colour of its fast-flowing waters. The stream typically appears between March and October and has been noted in historical writings since the Renaissance.
- Panoramic Walking Trail: A scenic footpath connects Fiumelatte with Varenna, offering sweeping views of Lake Como and the surrounding cliffs. The trail passes through forested areas and alongside the Fiumelatte stream, making it a popular route for walkers and nature lovers seeking a short but rewarding hike.
- Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie: This small church stands near the village and dates to the 17th century. It features a simple façade and interior frescoes, and although modest in size, it contributes to the local heritage and religious tradition of the area.
- Access to the Sentiero del Viandante: Fiumelatte is located along the Sentiero del Viandante, a long-distance walking route that runs along the eastern shore of Lake Como. From here, hikers can follow the trail north toward Bellano or south toward Lierna, enjoying panoramic views and varied natural landscapes.
- Day Trip to Varenna: Just a 20-minute walk away, Varenna offers historic landmarks such as Villa Monastero, a lakeside promenade, and ferry connections to other towns. Its cultural sites and dining options make it a natural and convenient destination for a half-day visit from Fiumelatte.
Tours and Activities
Fiumelatte Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Fiumelatte
- Hosteria del Platano: Located in the centre of Fiumelatte, this long-standing restaurant offers lake-inspired Italian dishes with modern touches. The menu includes risotto, fish, and regional specialities, served in a cosy dining room with views over Lake Como. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Bottega di Fiumelatte: Also in Fiumelatte, this small eatery provides a casual setting for enjoying Italian classics and local specialities. Known for its friendly service and simple, home-style cooking, it’s a convenient option for a relaxed meal in the village. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Il Cavatappi: Located in Varenna (approximately 1.5 km from Fiumelatte), Il Cavatappi is a small restaurant with a reputation for high-quality cooking and a frequently changing seasonal menu. Dishes include fresh pasta, lake fish, and carefully selected wines. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Al Prato: Situated in Varenna (about 1.5 km from Fiumelatte), Al Prato serves modern Italian cuisine in a refined yet relaxed setting. The menu includes a range of seafood and vegetarian options, using fresh, local ingredients. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria Quatro Pass: Found in Varenna (approximately 1.5 km from Fiumelatte), this rustic osteria focuses on regional Lombard dishes such as polenta, lake fish, and meat mains. The friendly staff and traditional interior make it a popular choice for a casual evening meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Fiumelatte Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Fiumelatte
- Varenna (approx. 5 km south of Fiumelatte): A charming lakeside town with colourful houses, cobbled streets, and breathtaking views of Lake Como. Villa Monastero, with its stunning lakeside gardens, and Villa Cipressi, known for its terraces and beautiful views, are key attractions in the town. Visitors can also stroll along the scenic lakeside promenade or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town’s historic centre.
- Bellano (approx. 10 km south of Fiumelatte): A tranquil town known for the dramatic Orrido di Bellano, a gorge that visitors can explore along walkways built into the rock formations. Bellano also has a picturesque historic centre and a peaceful lakeside promenade, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains.
- Lenno (approx. 15 km southeast of Fiumelatte): Famous for the stunning Villa Balbianello, a lakeside villa with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the lake, Lenno offers visitors the chance to explore this iconic property or take a boat ride to admire the surrounding villas. The town also boasts a lovely lakeside promenade, perfect for a relaxing walk.
- Tremezzo (approx. 25 km southeast of Fiumelatte): A picturesque town known for Villa Carlotta, an 18th-century villa with lush gardens and an impressive art collection. Visitors can explore the villa and its beautiful grounds or enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade. Tremezzo is also home to several charming cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon.
- Menaggio (approx. 25 km south of Fiumelatte): A lively town with a historic centre and a scenic lakeside promenade. Menaggio is a great base for exploring the surrounding hills with numerous hiking and cycling routes. Visitors can enjoy a boat trip across Lake Como, explore the town’s shops and cafes, or simply relax while soaking in the stunning views.
Lake Como Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Varenna
2. Como
3. Bellagio
4. Menaggio
5. Tremezzo
6. Lenno
7. Argegno
8. Cernobbio
9. Bellano
10. Colico
👉 Explore the Top 10 Towns on Lake Como
1. Varenna
2. Como
3. Bellagio
4. Menaggio
5. Tremezzo
6. Lenno
7. Argegno
8. Cernobbio
9. Bellano
10. Colico
👉 Explore the Top 10 Towns on Lake Como
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Fiumelatte
By Rail: Fiumelatte has its own small train station on the Lecco–Colico railway line. Only a limited number of regional Trenord services stop here each day, so it may be more practical to use nearby Varenna-Esino station, located just 1 kilometre to the north. From Varenna, there are frequent trains to Lecco and Milan, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 10 minutes to Milan and about 25 minutes to Lecco. The Fiumelatte station is located close to the lakeside and within walking distance of the village centre.
By Road: Fiumelatte is located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, approximately 75 kilometres north of Milan and 25 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS36 dual carriageway, exiting at Abbadia Lariana or Varenna and continuing along local roads. Access by car is limited and the roads are narrow, so parking is extremely restricted within the village. Visitors often park in Varenna and walk along the lakeside path to reach Fiumelatte.
By Ferry: Fiumelatte does not have its own ferry terminal. The nearest ferry services operate from Varenna, located just a short walk away along a pedestrian lakeside path. Varenna is a major hub in the Navigazione Laghi ferry network, with regular passenger boats to Bellagio, Menaggio, and other towns on the central lake. Vehicle ferries also operate from Varenna to Bellagio and Cadenabbia.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Fiumelatte is located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, approximately 75 kilometres north of Milan and 25 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS36 dual carriageway, exiting at Abbadia Lariana or Varenna and continuing along local roads. Access by car is limited and the roads are narrow, so parking is extremely restricted within the village. Visitors often park in Varenna and walk along the lakeside path to reach Fiumelatte.
By Ferry: Fiumelatte does not have its own ferry terminal. The nearest ferry services operate from Varenna, located just a short walk away along a pedestrian lakeside path. Varenna is a major hub in the Navigazione Laghi ferry network, with regular passenger boats to Bellagio, Menaggio, and other towns on the central lake. Vehicle ferries also operate from Varenna to Bellagio and Cadenabbia.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Located about 85 kilometres south of Fiumelatte, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Travellers can also take a bus or taxi to Milan Centrale station, then continue by train to Varenna and walk to Fiumelatte.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated around 65 kilometres south-east of Fiumelatte, the drive takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public transport options include a bus to Bergamo station, followed by trains to Lecco and on to Varenna or Fiumelatte.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Approximately 110 kilometres south-west of Fiumelatte, the drive takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. The Malpensa Express train connects to Milan Centrale, from where travellers can continue to Varenna and reach Fiumelatte on foot.
Private Transfers
Fiumelatte Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel to or from Fiumelatte, providing a direct connection without the need to rely on ferries or drive the narrow lakeside roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and reliable service.
From Fiumelatte, the nearest hub is Lecco city centre, which can be reached in about 20 minutes, a distance of 15 km. Milan Linate Airport is roughly 1 hour 15 minutes away at 70 km, while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 35 minutes, covering 90 km. A transfer to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport usually takes 1 hour with a journey of 60 km. For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 1 hour 10 minutes away, a distance of 55 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Fiumelatte, the nearest hub is Lecco city centre, which can be reached in about 20 minutes, a distance of 15 km. Milan Linate Airport is roughly 1 hour 15 minutes away at 70 km, while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 35 minutes, covering 90 km. A transfer to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport usually takes 1 hour with a journey of 60 km. For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 1 hour 10 minutes away, a distance of 55 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

