The Capanna Como Hut is situated in one of the most rugged corners of the Larian Mountains, perched on a rocky promontory that offers awe-inspiring views of the valley. To reach this hidden gem, you’ll embark on a lengthy and demanding yet incredibly rewarding hike.
Despite its name, this hut is located several kilometers away from the city of Como and can be accessed via the Darengo Valley, following a trail that takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to traverse. The majority of the route is quite manageable and diverse, with the incline becoming steeper only in the final stretch, right at the base of the hut.
Adjacent to the hut, you’ll discover a picturesque high-altitude lake known as Lake Darengo. During the summer months, many hikers take the opportunity to rejuvenate themselves with a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear waters.
If you’re considering the possibility of staying at Capanna Como, it’s essential to make a reservation in advance. This refuge is self-managed, so a key code is provided for access to the interior, where you’ll find a kitchen, bathrooms, and a spacious dormitory with around 20 beds.
The experience is extraordinary and is worth it both for enjoying the sunset and witnessing the sunrise. The spectacle is indescribable, and often you’ll find yourself socializing with fellow adventurers in a friendly and pleasant atmosphere.
From Crotto Dangri to Capanna Como
As mentioned earlier, the outbound trail does not pose any technical challenges. The key is to have enough stamina to tackle the elevation gain of nearly 1,200 meters, with a significant incline in the final stretch. Certainly, the awareness of being almost at the hut and the inviting little lake provide motivation to persevere, even in the face of the final exertion.
From Capanna Como to Crotto Dangri
The return journey is quite enjoyable, with a clear and relatively comfortable descent. In a short time, you’ll reach the parking area, and you’ll be able to treasure the magic experienced in the preceding hours in your memory.
Some pics
