You don’t always have to travel for hours or go abroad to feel like you’re in a mountain documentary landscape. Less than an hour from Milan, just a few minutes from downtown Como, there’s a loop trail that brings together nature, adventure, and a piece of local history.
We’re talking about the trail leading to the famous Scala del Paradiso: a scenic stone staircase of about 900 steps, nestled in the heart ofthe Spina Verde Regional Park. The route is just under 5 kilometers long and follows the ancient path of the smugglers, running along the border between Italy and Switzerland. Along the way, there’s something for everyone: challenging climbs, panoramic views, asuspended Tibetan bridge , and even old trenches dating back to World War I.
The Challenge of the 900 Steps: the Scala del Paradiso
The true highlight of the route is undoubtedly the Scala del Paradiso: a long, steep staircase of about 900 steps, built from local stone to allow border guards of the Guardia di Finanza to monitor the border and curb smuggling, an activity that was once widespread in these parts.
The climb is noticeable and takes a bit of effort, but nothing prohibitive. The beauty of it is that you walk almost entirely in the shade of the woods, in a quiet atmosphere that feels a bit timeless. And as you climb, the effort fades into the background: through the trees, increasingly beautiful views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains begin to open up, making every step feel decidedly lighter.
The Tibetan Bridge and the Trenches of the Cadorna Line
But the beauty of the route doesn’t end at the Scala del Paradiso. Continuing along the loop, you’ll come to one of the most surprising sections: a Tibetan suspension bridge over a forest gorge, which you can cross in complete safety.
Amid wooden walkways and steel cables, you find yourself immersed in an unusual perspective on the wildest part of the Spina Verde Regional Park, with that pleasant sense of adventure that makes the journey even more memorable.
And that’s not all. A little further on, the trail changes atmosphere and gives way to history: along the route, you’ll encounter the trenches of the Cadorna Line, old military walkways, and underground bunkers built during World War I.
Venturing into these passages—it’s best to bring a flashlight or at least a fully charged smartphone —adds an exploratory touch to the hike, making it interesting even for families with curious children.
Practical information: how to get there and route details
Where to start:
One of the most convenient starting points is Ponte Chiasso, but you can also easily begin from Colverde, leaving your car in the parking lot on Via Dunant.
Length and duration:
The loop trail is about 4.8 km long and takes an average of 2 to 2.5 hours to complete, taking it easy and stopping to enjoy the views.
Difficulty level:
The trail is classified as a hiking trail (E). There are no particularly exposed or dangerous sections, but the 900 steps of the Scala del Paradiso require a minimum level of fitness and hiking boots with good traction. It is best to avoid it if you have knee problems.
When to go:
The best time to visit is spring and fall, when the temperatures and colors of the landscape are at their best. But the trail is also pleasant in summer, thanks to the cool shade of the forest that accompanies most of the walk.
For this hike, basic gear is all you need, with no special requirements: hiking boots are always essential, a good supply of water (a liter and a half is usually enough), and, if you like, a pair of trekking poles to help with the uphill sections.
It’s also a good idea to pack a few light layers in your backpack, because along the way you may go from moments of exertion and heat to cooler, shadier stretches, with an almost “out-of-season” feeling even in the milder months.
