Onno, Lake Como: The Beach Hamlet Beneath Moregallo

View across the Lecco branch of Lake Como from Onno — The Lecco branch of Lake Como seen from the Oliveto Lario shore at Onno. Photo: Manuel Pagani / Wikimedia Commons – CC BY-SA 4.0.

Onno sits where the limestone wall of Monte Moregallo falls toward the Lecco branch of Lake Como. It is the most beach-oriented of Oliveto Lario’s three hamlets, with pebble shores, clear water and long views toward Mandello del Lario.

The village is modest and relaxed. Its appeal comes from being close to the lake rather than from monumental sights.

A brief history

Onno was an independent community until 1927, when it joined Limonta and Vassena to form Oliveto Lario. Fishing, olive growing and the old road along the shore shaped the hamlet. The steep mountain behind it limited expansion, helping the village retain a narrow lakeside form.

Where Onno sits on the lake

Onno is the southernmost hamlet of Oliveto Lario, on the western shore of the Lecco arm between Valbrona’s mountain roads and Vassena. Mandello del Lario faces it directly across the water.

Onno village and lakeside on the Lecco branch of Lake Como — The lakeside at Onno, beneath the slopes of Monte Moregallo. Photo: Nikolay Maksimovich / Wikimedia Commons – CC BY 3.0.

The best things to see in Onno

1. The beaches of Onno

Onno’s pebble and shingle beaches are its main attraction. Some sections are simple public shore, while others have seasonal services. The water can deepen quickly, so swim according to conditions and local guidance.

2. The waterfront and landing stage

A short walk along the shore gives broad views across to Mandello and the Grigne. The small landing area recalls the period when boats were the simplest connection between villages on opposite sides of the branch.

3. Monte Moregallo above the village

The pale limestone bulk of Moregallo gives Onno its dramatic backdrop. Mountain routes rise behind the shore, but they are much more demanding than the village walk and require proper planning.

Planning your visit

Getting there. Buses on the Lecco–Bellagio road serve Onno. There is no railway station and scheduled boat service is limited, so road transport is usually simplest.

Best for. Swimming, open-water views and a relaxed day on the quieter Lecco arm.

When to go. Summer for the beach; late spring and early autumn for a quieter waterfront.

Nearby. Mandello del Lario lies across the lake, while Vassena and Limonta continue north. See our Oliveto Lario overview.

Onno is at its best when the plan is simple: find the shore, look across the water and let the mountains fill the rest of the day.