5
hikers
Kilometer of Knowledge
00:37
2.39km
20m
Hiking
The Kilometer of Knowledge offers an easy hike along the western shore of Lake Como, winding through 17 hectares of historic parks and gardens. This accessible route, spanning 1.5 miles (2.4 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 58 feet (18 metres), takes about 37 minutes to complete. As you walk, you will discover diverse botanical rarities, charming chapels, and art installations, all set against relaxing views of Lake Como.
This trail is suitable for all fitness levels, making it a leisurely stroll rather than a strenuous trek. The paths are easily accessible, consisting of gravel, footpaths, and some unpaved and asphalt sections. You can enjoy the serene atmosphere of Lake Como's historic estates, connecting Villa Olmo, Villa del Grumello, and Villa Sucota.
Conceived as a "green corridor" or "open-air art gallery," the Kilometer of Knowledge blends natural landscapes with architecture, art, and history. It provides a peaceful escape from crowds, allowing you to explore the neoclassical architecture of Villa Olmo, the romantic gardens of Villa del Grumello, and the unique charm of Villa Sucota, which often features contemporary art. Informative signs about local flora enhance the educational aspect of your visit.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
150 m
Villa Olmo
Highlight • Historical Site
The name of the villa goes back to a huge elm (Olmo), which, according to legend, Plinio the Younger planted and formerly decorated the park of the villa. The original plans for the villa in neo-classical style (today the central building) come from Simone Cantoni of Muggio in the canton of Ticino, designed in the late 18th century. The first owner is Innocenzo Odescalchi, the following owners extend the building by adding wings, but without distorting the stylistic face of the villa. Among the famous guests are Napoleon and Garibaldi. Today, the villa is owned by Como Municipality, which has been using it for cultural events since its restoration.
The main façade faces Lake Como and consists of the central building (ie the original villa) - which is completed by columns and optical façade structures, pilaster strips, a rhythmic section and a roof terrace with statues facing upwards - as well as the two lateral ones wings.
The clearly structured exterior transforms into a sumptuous interior: here there are plenty of stucco, golden ornaments and frescoes by artists of the late 17th and early 18th century. Among all the rooms stands the Teatrino, a small theater with 92 seats (1853), particularly distinguished by its decorative charm and the frescoes of Fontana.
In the park is a small neoclassical temple and flows a small stream. In the middle of the garden - opposite the villa - is a fountain that shows two children playing with a sea monster; a work of the sculptor G. Odofrechi. The mansard is dedicated to an exhibition by the architect Antonio Sant'Elia (1886-1916), the first advocate of futuristic architecture.
dercomersee.com/villaolmo.htm
Translated by Google •
Tip by
846 m
Villa del Grumello
Highlight • Historical Site
Learn more here: lakecomotravel.com/km-della-conoscenza-lake-como
Tip by
2.39 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
1.70 km
449 m
200 m
Surfaces
1.61 km
583 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Friday 15 May
19°C
7°C
27 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.