Gera  Lario​

Latest page update: 6 April 2025
By: Dion Protani
The lakeside town of Gera Lario is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 1,000 residents and is located a distance of 107 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.

Gera Lario has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Dascio and the Pian di Spagna Nature Reserve.

What People Ask About Gera Lario

Is Gera Lario worth visiting?
Yes, Gera Lario is located at the northern tip of Lake Como and is popular for its marina, lakefront walks, and access to water sports. It's also a good starting point for exploring the Pian di Spagna nature reserve.
What can you do in Gera Lario?
Activities include sailing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and cycling. There’s a long pedestrian and cycle path along the lake, and boat trips into the nearby wetlands and river area are also available.
How do you get to Gera Lario?
Gera Lario is along the SS340 and just off the SS36 near the town of Sorico. It can be reached by car or bus from Colico, which also has the nearest train station.
Is Gera Lario good for water sports?
Yes, Gera Lario is well known for water sports, especially sailing and kitesurfing. The flat northern part of the lake and steady winds make it suitable for both beginners and experienced visitors.
When is the best time to visit Gera Lario?
The best time to visit Gera Lario is from late spring to early autumn, especially between May and September, when conditions are best for outdoor activities and lake sports.
Related links
Gera Lario, located in the Lombardy region, is a picturesque village situated on the northern shore of Lake Como, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Gera Lario provides a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and explore the charm of the area. The village’s traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and lakeside location make it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet retreat with easy access to outdoor activities.
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Gera Lario is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The village is also home to the Chiesa di San Vincenzo, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Gera Lario offers a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails that lead into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. The town’s serene setting, combined with its natural beauty and proximity to the lake, makes it a perfect base for exploring the northern shores of Lake Como.
Top Things to Do in Gera Lario
  • Lakeside Promenade and Harbour: Gera Lario has a spacious waterfront with a modern marina, grassy areas, and panoramic views over the northern end of Lake Como. The promenade is ideal for walking or cycling, with seating areas and direct access to the water. Its flat layout and open spaces make it especially popular with families.
  • Chiesa di San Vincenzo: This parish church, set slightly above the lake, features a tall bell tower and a mix of architectural styles. Inside are decorative chapels, religious paintings, and a carved wooden altar. It continues to serve as the town’s main place of worship and plays a key role during local religious festivals.
  • Water Sports and Outdoor Activities: Gera Lario is known for its excellent conditions for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, thanks to the steady winds in the northern basin of the lake. The area also has facilities for kayaking and paddleboarding, with several schools and rental options available along the shoreline.
  • Nature Trails and River Walks: The nearby Mera River, which flows into the lake at Gera Lario, is bordered by footpaths and natural areas. Trails lead through wetlands and fields, providing opportunities for birdwatching and riverside walks. The surrounding area is also popular for cycling and casual mountain hiking.
  • Day Trip to Colico and Fort Montecchio: Just across the lake, Colico offers a lively town centre and access to Fort Montecchio, one of the best-preserved First World War forts in Italy. The site includes guided tours and offers views over the lake and nearby Alps, making it a rewarding cultural excursion from Gera Lario.
Comune di Gera Lario
Province: Como

Region: Lombardy

​​​​Population: ​1,060​​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 7 km²

Elevation: 201 metres

Highlights: marina, paragliding, windsurfing

Travel facilities: ferry port

​​Close by: Dascio, Pian di Spagna Nature Reserve, Domaso​
My recommended accommodation options for Gera Lario:
  • Hotel Aurora Located close to the lakefront and the town centre, this family-run hotel offers bright rooms, some with balconies, an on-site pizzeria restaurant, and a terrace overlooking the lake. Guests appreciate the friendly service, convenient location, and views of the surrounding mountains. €€ (mid-range)
  • Villa Làrio A private holiday villa near the waterfront, offering spacious interiors, a well-equipped kitchen, a garden, and an outdoor dining area. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, proximity to the lake, and ideal setup for families or groups. €€€ (high-end)
  • Camping North Wind & Apartment Situated just a short walk from the beach and marina, this lakeside campsite also offers apartments with kitchens and outdoor seating. Guests value the relaxed environment, direct lake access, and opportunities for windsurfing and water sports. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B Alto Lario Positioned on the hillside above Gera Lario, this bed and breakfast features simple, clean rooms with lake or mountain views, a garden, and homemade breakfast. Visitors enjoy the quiet location and access to nearby walking and cycling trails. €€ (mid-range)
  • Appartamenti Sole e Lago A group of self-catering apartments in various locations around Gera Lario, offering kitchens, terraces, and lake or garden views. Guests appreciate the flexibility, good value for money, and walking distance to the lakeshore and local cafés. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in Gera Lario and the local area:
  • Le 5 Case: Located in Gera Lario, Le 5 Case offers a variety of Italian dishes with a focus on seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional recipes. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Albergo Ristorante Lario: Situated in Gera Lario, this hotel restaurant serves Italian, pizza, and seafood dishes. Guests appreciate the friendly service and lake views, as well as the convenience of a varied menu in a comfortable setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • La Brenta: Also in Gera Lario, La Brenta offers a cosy environment and specialises in Mediterranean cuisine, with seafood being a highlight. The restaurant is a popular choice among locals for its consistent quality and pleasant setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Agriturismo Sorsasso: Located in Domaso (approximately 4 km from Gera Lario), this agriturismo offers traditional Lombard cuisine made with local produce. Guests can enjoy dishes such as cured meats, risotto, and house wines on a panoramic terrace overlooking the lake. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • La Briciola Osteria Moderna: Found in Colico (about 3.5 km from Gera Lario), this modern osteria serves creative takes on classic Italian and seafood dishes. The interior is contemporary and elegant, making it ideal for a more refined dining experience. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)

Gera  Lario​​  Gallery

Close  to  Gera  Lario

  • Domaso (approx. 5 km south of Gera Lario): Located on the northern shores of Lake Como, Domaso is a picturesque village known for its serene lakeside atmosphere and outdoor activities. The town is popular for water sports such as windsurfing and sailing, and visitors can enjoy its beautiful beaches, scenic walking paths, and local cafes along the lakefront. The relaxed vibe and stunning views make it a perfect spot to unwind.
  • Gravedona ed Uniti (approx. 10 km southeast of Gera Lario): A charming town set on the northern shores of Lake Como, Gravedona ed Uniti boasts historic landmarks like the Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie and the Castello di Gravedona. The town also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and boating. Visitors can explore the quaint streets or relax at the lakeside, enjoying the peaceful setting and panoramic views of the lake.
  • Colico (approx. 15 km south of Gera Lario): Situated at the northern tip of Lake Como, Colico offers beautiful natural surroundings and a range of outdoor activities. The town is known for the Fort Montecchio, a World War I-era fortress that provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The area is also perfect for water sports, with several beaches and clear waters ideal for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing.
  • Tremezzo (approx. 35 km southwest of Gera Lario): A charming lakeside town on the western shore of Lake Como, Tremezzo is home to the famous Villa Carlotta, which features magnificent gardens and art collections. Visitors can relax along the lakeside promenade, explore the beautiful gardens, or take a boat tour to enjoy the stunning scenery. Tremezzo also offers a variety of local restaurants, making it an excellent spot for dining with a view.
  • Menaggio (approx. 40 km south of Gera Lario): A lively town located on the western shore of Lake Como, Menaggio is known for its lakeside promenade, historic town centre, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the town’s shops, cafes, and markets, or take a boat trip across the lake to explore other towns. The surrounding hills offer excellent hiking and biking opportunities, making Menaggio an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts.

How  to  get  to  Gera  Lario

By Rail: Gera Lario does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Colico, located approximately 10 kilometres to the southeast. Trenord operates regular services from Milan to Colico, with journey times of about 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Colico, travellers can reach Gera Lario by bus or taxi.
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By Road: Gera Lario is approximately 100 kilometres north of Milan and about 50 kilometres northeast of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 2 hours via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340dir road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS340 road. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
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Nearest International Airports:
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  • Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located about 110 kilometres southwest of Gera Lario, the drive takes approximately 2 hours via the A36 and A9 motorways, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340dir road. From the airport, travellers can take the Malpensa Express train to Milan Cadorna station, then a train to Colico, followed by a bus or taxi to Gera Lario.​
  • Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 120 kilometres south of Gera Lario, the drive takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340dir road. Public transport options from Linate Airport to Gera Lario involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Colico, followed by a bus or taxi to Gera Lario.​

Lake Como Ferries: Gera Lario is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Gera Lario offers services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Gera Lario to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with tickets costing between €12 and €18. Ferries operate multiple times daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.

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