Val d'Intelvi – Lombardy: natural balconies between Lake Como and Lake Lugano. The Val d'Intelvi is located between the waters of Lake Como and those of Lake Lugano, nestled between soft mountains and scenic villages. It is an area of discreet charm, made up of small villages, chestnut woods, baroque churches and paths that climb up to surprising views of the valleys and lakes below. 🏞️ Hilly landscapes and views as far as the eye can see: The valley is dotted with easily accessible viewpoints. From Pellio, Lanzo or Castiglione you can quickly reach heights such as Monte Generoso, Monte Crocione or Alpe di Blessagno, with views that embrace lakes and alpine peaks. 👉 Tip: Reach the Balconata d'Italia above Lanzo: one of the most evocative observation points on the entire Lake Lugano, perfect at sunrise or sunset. 🚶 Paths through meadows, woods and ancient mule tracks: The entire valley is crossed by paths that connect villages, chapels, roccoli and huts. The routes are suitable for all levels of preparation, often accompanied by panels that tell the history and nature of the place. 👉 Tip: Follow the loop between Scaria, San Fedele and Orimento: it offers a nice variety of environments and numerous opportunities for panoramic stops. 🏘️ Historical architecture and sacred art: The villages of the Val d'Intelvi preserve a rich heritage of Baroque churches, historic buildings and works by local craftsmen. In particular, the intellectuals – artists and architects who emigrated to Europe between the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries – have left refined testimonies, visible above all in sacred decorations. 👉 Tip: Visit the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate in Pellio: inside you will find stuccoes and frescoes surprising for a small mountain village. 🧀 Local traditions and alpine gastronomy: The cuisine of the valley is rustic and genuine: polenta, cheeses aged in the mountain pastures, homemade cold cuts and simple but tasty cakes. In the local restaurants you can find dishes that tell the story of the border peasant culture, with Larian and Ticino influences. 👉 Tip: Try a dinner in a farmhouse hut in the upper valley: authentic environment, zero-km cuisine and a truly evocative night view. The Val d'Intelvi is made up of soft curves and wide perspectives: a small world of quiet suspended between two lakes, where every step adds an unexpected detail.