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Places of interest

Orrido di Bellano

4.4 · 16,714 reviews
Damp, echoing, and industrial-natural.
Orrido di Bellano, Piazza S. Giorgio, 23822 Bellano LC, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The canyon was carved by the retreat of the Adda glacier during the last glacial period.

2

The name Cà del Diavol refers to a hexagonal-shaped stone tower located at the entrance to the gorge.

3

The site was historically used for industrial purposes, including a mechanical workshop that harnessed water power.

4

The canyon walls reach depths of up to 40 meters in certain sections.

5

The local microclimate inside the ravine remains consistently cooler than the surrounding lakefront area.

Overview

Orrido di Bellano is a natural gorge formed 15 million years ago by the erosion of the Pioverna river and the Adda glacier. The site features a system of suspended walkways anchored directly into the vertical rock walls of the canyon. Water flow is controlled by a dam, which significantly influences the intensity of the cascades throughout the year. The ravine is home to the Cà del Diavol, a tower associated with local legends and occult history. A lighting system illuminates the rock formations and waterfalls during evening hours. The geological structure consists of layers of Serizzo, a metamorphic rock characteristic of the surrounding Alpine region. Visitors can observe deep potholes and narrow flumes carved into the stone over millennia.

Photo spot

The central section of the suspended bridge looking downward into the primary waterfall basin.

Insider tips

Wear shoes with non-slip soles as the metal walkway surfaces can be damp.

Bring a light waterproof jacket to protect against spray from the waterfalls.

Check the official website for current accessibility status before arrival, as heavy rainfall can trigger temporary closures.

What to avoid

Attempting to visit during heavy rainstorms, as the path may be closed for safety reasons due to high water levels.

Good to know

Open daily, though subject to closures during extreme weather events or maintenance periods.

Etiquette

Maintain a steady pace on the walkways to avoid creating bottlenecks; do not lean over railings.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Early morning on weekdays to avoid high foot traffic on the narrow walkways.
Address
Orrido di Bellano, Piazza S. Giorgio, 23822 Bellano LC, Italy
46.043, 9.305
Get directions
Details
Geological featuresGlacial-eroded Serizzo rock canyons and deep fluvial potholes
Historical interestCà del Diavol tower and 19th-century industrial water-power sites

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning on weekdays to avoid high foot traffic on the narrow walkways..

The central section of the suspended bridge looking downward into the primary waterfall basin.

Close by you'll find Lake Como, Castello di Vezio, Chiesa Prepositurale dei Santi Nazaro e Celso.