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Between silence and nature, on the tip of the Olgiasca peninsula, Piona Abbey is a place where time seems to slow down. Set in the calm of Lake Como’s eastern shore, just a few kilometres from Colico, this ancient Cistercian abbey is a pocket of spirituality and beauty that many visitors never discover. Among centuries-old cypresses, the scent of the lake and birdsong, you’ll find a world of peace, art and monastic traditions.
Piona Abbey, also known as the Priory of Piona, has very ancient roots. It was founded in the 7th century as an oratory dedicated to Saint Justina. In the 11th century it was transformed into a Benedictine monastery, later passing to the Cistercian monks. Today it is entrusted to the Olivetans, who safeguard its spirituality and beauty. During the Middle Ages, the abbey was an important stopping point for pilgrims travelling along the Via Regina, the old route connecting northern Europe to Rome. In the 16th century, the monastery was sacked by the Landsknechts, German mercenaries passing through during the Italian Wars.
If you’d like a great base for exploring this quieter side of the lake, discover Bellano’s hidden corners and local tips.
Legend has it that Saint Bernard of Clairvaux stopped here on a journey, leaving his blessing on the place.
In the Middle Ages, the abbey was a key stop for pilgrims on the Via Regina, an ancient route linking northern Europe with Rome.
In the 16th century, the monastery was sacked by the Landsknechts, German mercenaries passing through during the Italian Wars.
The abbey church, dedicated to San Nicolao, is a jewel of Lombard Romanesque architecture. Inside you’ll find 13th-century frescoes, including a rare depiction of Christ Pantocrator and a painted cycle telling biblical stories. The atmosphere is intimate and contemplative—perfect for a quiet pause.
A small cloister with elegant stone columns and finely carved capitals offers an oasis of calm. Even today, the monks devote themselves here to prayer and meditation. Silence is broken only by birdsong and the breeze moving through the cypresses. Curiosity: tradition says Saint Bernard of Clairvaux stopped here on his travels, leaving a blessing on the site.
The monks still produce liqueurs and herbal infusions using old recipes passed down through the centuries. Don’t miss the Cordial di Piona, an aromatic elixir made with local herbs—ideal as a digestif or an authentic souvenir. You can buy it directly from the abbey’s small shop, along with honey, creams and other artisanal products.
Follow a small side track and you’ll reach a hidden little beach with a breathtaking view over the lake—perfect for a moment of pure tranquillity.
The abbey can be visited all year round, but spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) feel especially magical, with fewer visitors and striking colours. Summer can be hot, but the lake breeze makes the visit pleasant.
Generally, the abbey is open from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 14:30 to 17:00. Important: opening times may vary depending on monastic celebrations. It’s always best to check before your visit by contacting the abbey or consulting the official website.
· By car: From Colico, follow the signs for Olgiasca/Piona. Parking is available nearby.
· By boat: Lake Como Navigation services stop at Piona during the summer months. The pier is just a few minutes’ walk from the abbey. For practical advice, see our guide on getting around Lake Como by boat.
· By train: Piona station (Lecco–Colico line), then a 10-minute walk following the signs.
· On foot: The abbey can be reached via variants of the Wayfarer’s Path (Sentiero del Viandante) that descend towards the Olgiasca peninsula.
Yes. Entry to the abbey complex, cloister and church is generally free. You can leave a voluntary donation to help with maintenance.
At the abbey shop, run by the monks. You’ll also find other artisanal products such as honey, herbal infusions and creams.
Spring and autumn are ideal: pleasant temperatures, beautiful colours and fewer crowds than in peak summer.
Yes. The little hidden beach reached via the side path is suitable for swimming. The water is clean and the atmosphere is very quiet.
Piona Abbey is a place where history, spirituality and nature blend into a uniquely peaceful experience. Far from mass tourism, it offers an authentic immersion in the calm and beauty of Lake Como. Whether you love art, seek quiet, or simply enjoy discovering lesser-known places, this hidden corner will stay with you long after you leave.
Piona Abbey lies near Colico, in the Upper Lake area. If you want to explore this less-touristy but wonderfully atmospheric part of the lake, Bellano is an excellent base—halfway between the central lake and Alto Lario. If you stay in an apartment at Villa Vista Lago, you can reach Piona in just a few minutes and return to the comfort and authenticity of a town that feels alive all year round. While you’re nearby, you may also enjoy visiting Lake Piona.
Plan your visit—and turn it into a Lake Como stay.