Via Roma, 22020 Nesso, Italy (June 2018)

Nesso

Nesso is a picturesque village located on the eastern shore of Lake Como in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Perched between steep cliffs and the sparkling waters of the lake, Nesso is a place where natural beauty and historical charm come together in a serene yet dramatic setting. The village is small but full of character, offering visitors a glimpse of traditional lakeside life, framed by mountains, waterfalls, and winding streets that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

The origins of Nesso are ancient, with settlements in the area dating back to Roman times. Its name is believed to derive from the Latin word for a narrow passage or channel, reflecting the deep gorge and streams that characterize the landscape. Over time, Nesso developed as a small community focused on fishing, agriculture, and later, trade along the lake. The village has retained much of its medieval charm, evident in its narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, and arched bridges that span rushing streams.

One of Nesso’s most striking features is its natural environment. The village is divided by a dramatic gorge through which the Nosè waterfall flows, creating a stunning sight as water tumbles down into the lake. Small stone bridges span the gorge, connecting the two halves of the village and offering vantage points for viewing the waterfall and surrounding cliffs. The combination of water, cliffs, and greenery gives Nesso a unique character among Lake Como’s towns, making it a favourite for nature lovers and photographers.

Architecture in Nesso reflects the practical and aesthetic considerations of life in a lakeside mountain village. Stone houses cling to the hillsides, often decorated with flower boxes or shutters painted in muted tones. Small chapels and churches punctuate the village, many dating back to the medieval period, and each bears witness to the community’s long-standing religious traditions. Public squares and narrow alleys provide spaces for gathering and social interaction, preserving a sense of intimacy that larger lakeside towns often lack.

Life in Nesso has long been shaped by the lake and surrounding landscape. Fishing, olive cultivation, and small-scale agriculture have supported the community for generations, and these traditions continue to influence local cuisine. Meals emphasize fresh ingredients, including fish from the lake, locally grown vegetables, and olive oil pressed from nearby groves. Dining is often a communal activity, enjoyed outdoors when weather permits, and always in connection with the rhythms of the natural environment.

Despite its small size, Nesso retains a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The village encourages slow exploration, whether wandering its cobbled streets, crossing bridges over the gorge, or following paths that lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Como. Festivals and local celebrations provide insight into traditional life, combining music, food, and communal gatherings that reinforce the town’s cultural identity.

Nesso represents a quieter, more contemplative side of Lake Como. Its charm lies not in grand monuments or bustling crowds but in the harmony between landscape, history, and daily life. Visitors to Nesso are invited to experience a place where the natural world and human settlement coexist gracefully, offering an intimate and enduring impression of northern Italy’s lakeside beauty.

Worth a Visit

Photo Gallery of Walk in Nesso – Via Borgovecchio to Via Roma
Approximately 1.77 km – 1.01 miles

The walk starts in Via Borgovecchio – Chiesa Arcipretale San Pietro E Paolo, Via Borgovecchio – Passaggio – Porto Borgovecchio – Passaggio ­ Via Borgovecchio – Via Roma