In the area
Town Centre
Porlezza is a tourist town, located on the Italian side of Lake Lugano. It enjoys a strategic position and a unique natural setting, created by the prealps, which are reflected in the clear waters of the lake. Once on the lakeside you can continue along "the old streets" that have a beautiful view of the village, unique murals and tunnels dug into the rock. You can stop at one of the ice cream parlours on the lakefront, to enjoy an ice cream or sit in one of the terraces while drinking a cappuccino with views over the lake! Another worthy visit is the Garibaldi Street, the historical shopping street: we suggest you enter via the side streets, with their old doorways and courtyards.
Begna waterfall
Starting from the characteristic hamlet of Begna, following the signs for the “Ponte Strolech” waterfall, via Caduti in Guerra and then via alla Piana, go up through the streets of the town and then along the path, you will reach the small Begna waterfall.
The unspoiled nature, the freshness of the water and the charm of this small wonder hidden in the woods make this place an ideal destination for a relaxing walk in the shade of the trees.
San Rocco church
The church of San Rocco is located just above Porlezza and is easily reachable via an old mule track that leads from behind the post office, near the Piazza del Municipio. From the churchyard of the chapel you can admire an enchanting view of the town and Lugano lake. Every year on August 16th the Saint is celebrated: at the first light of dawn, it is traditional to go to the church, which only opens on that day, and ring the bell.
Lago del Piano
Lago di Piano is a natural reserve located a few kilometrers form the campig. It's very accessible, just by folliwing the former railway bicicle and walkpath in the direction of Menaggio you will reach it in half an hour. There is possible to do the complete round of the lake which takes a couple of hours or you can just go on the main path along the lake and enjoy an incontaminated natural space
Castello di S.Pietro
While going in the direction of the natural reserve of Lago di Piano, along the main bicicle path, a small deviation will lead you to this ancient grouping of farmer's houses. The borough is quite small but worth a visit since very traditional, you will also have a chance to meet some animals in the adiacent pastures! From there you have also the possibility to continue the walk along a natural path leading to the Lago di Piano inside a small forest, passing by some old ruins and terracings.
Grotte di Rescia
As you go towards Osteno, near the quarry and the Rescia campsite, on the left is the entrance to the caves. It is a journey of about 20 minutes inside rocky natural tunnels formed by tuff (we recommend going by car and parking near the quarry – the road is not suitable for children either by bike or on foot)
Balcone d'Italia
On the slopes of monte Sighignola (1302) there is a balcony overlooking the Lake Lugano.
This is not to be missed, as there is a breathtaking panorama that stretches from Lake below to the Alps!
The summit can be reached by car, on foot or by mountain bike from Lanzo Intelvi.
It takes 40 minutes by car from the campsite.
Orrido di Bellano
This narrow canyon can be visited thanks to a system of walkways anchored on the high walls overlooking the water, where the charm of the place takes on different nuances, and which have recently been extended up to reach the large waterfall further upstream. Reachable by ferry from Menaggio to Varenna