Across the rolling landscapes of the Lecco region, a remarkable transformation is taking place as agritourism flourishes like never before. This lively growth is not just a trend—it’s reshaping the local economy, attracting new investments, and drawing attention to the charming countryside near Lake Como. Over the past decade, the number of agritourism farms in Lombardy has climbed steadily, and by 2017, there were already 1,551 operations thriving in the region. Lecco, in particular, stands out as an agritourism hotspot, with established farms offering a blend of tradition, innovation, and scenic beauty.
Interest in rural tourism has soared, and it’s easy to see why. Visitors are greeted by vineyards with Protected Geographical Indication wines like Barbera and Chardonnay, lush olive groves stretching from Abbadia Lariana to Bellano, and colorful fruit orchards where ancient varieties are lovingly preserved. Many farms have embraced organic and biodynamic certifications, such as Demeter and IMC, bringing a modern twist to age-old agricultural practices. [Some of these farms, like the Oasi WWF-certified agriturismo in La Valletta Brianza, focus on preserving the biodiversity of ancient fruit and vegetable varieties and have been recognized by both IMC and Demeter for their organic and biodynamic methods.]
Vineyards, olive groves, and vibrant orchards welcome visitors, where organic and biodynamic traditions blend seamlessly with the beauty of rural Lecco.
On these farms, gravity-fed irrigation keeps vast vegetable gardens green, while advanced milling technology turns olives into high-quality oil—perhaps making even the pickiest chef’s heart skip a beat.
What really sets Lecco’s agritourism apart is the seamless integration of hospitality and agriculture. Renovated farmhouses have been transformed into comfortable apartments, some big enough for groups of up to 16 friends or family members. Properties range from cozy 14-room guesthouses to larger apartment complexes, where guests can wake up to views of private parks filled with olive trees, berry bushes, and aromatic herbs.
On-site restaurants serve fresh produce straight from the garden, offering guests a true farm-to-table experience. Strategically located near the famous Lake Como and just under an hour from Milan by train, Lecco’s agritourism properties are easily accessible for city dwellers looking for a taste of country life.
The nearby Sentiero del Viandante, a historic pedestrian route, guides hikers through olive groves and lakeside vistas, while the Curone Park and WWF Oasis provide peaceful escapes and opportunities to sample local wines and dishes.
Beyond tourism and tasty meals, agritourism in Lecco has a meaningful social impact. Cooperative initiatives help young people at risk of social exclusion find work and training, while biodiversity projects protect rare crop varieties. With all these elements combined, it’s no wonder investment is flowing toward Lake Como’s countryside, where tradition meets opportunity in every harvest.
