TRACK n°1

Starting not far from the ferry’s dock at Peschiera Maraglio, this footpath leads to the Santuario Madonna della Ceriola, at the top of the island, through the ancient village of Cure. Starting from the Tourist Information Office at Peschiera Maraglio, it winds through the town’s narrow alleys and steps; then, leaving the town, it climbs towards the island’s highest village. For the first part, the path is compressed soil or stone, well kept and surrounded by a thick wood through which you can sometimes catch a glimpse of Isola di San Paolo (made famous by Christo’s floating piers). About halfway through this first part there is a picnic area with a table where hikers can eat something and enjoy the landscape. This first part may prove rather tiring for those who are not used to climbing. We therefore accept as correct the definition of “hiking trail” to be found on the local signposts. On leaving the wood, the footpath opens on the view of the lake shore on the Bergamo side and goes on among pastures and fields in the direction of Cure.

Just before entering the village, keep right and follow the lane that leads to the Santuario. This part of the path is virtually level and crosses very pleasant meadows alternating with stretches of wood. In this last part, the footpath becomes a little rougher, with jutting stones, and the landscape this time is the Brescian side of the lake. The signposts give a hiking time of 80’. We suggest a more reasonable time of 1h 30’ (just so as to allow hikers to enjoy the beauty of the island without getting too tired). Once you arrive at the Santuario, at the very top of the island, you can enjoy a 360° view of the lake and your gaze embraces a wide landscape that includes the Alps and the Padana Plain. In the surrounding wood there are picnic areas and public toilets. From the Santuario it is possible to go back to Cure by way of a cobbled path.

Length of Footpath: 3.9 km

Ascent: 402 m

Hiking time: 1h 30’