The name Strada dei Cavalli comes from the long lines of horses laden with goods that traversed this route until 1834. At that time, it was the only mule track, used for trade and travel around Lake Como. It was guarded by the State of Milan, with which the Grisons (present-day Switzerland) were in conflict. The state forged strong diplomatic and commercial relations with the Duchy of Venice, and the subsequent opening of the Strada Priula between Valtellina and Val Brembana, passing through the Cà San Marco pass, was a natural consequence of this.

The itinerary, recently reopened with significant works to ensure the safety of travelers, begins just before the new tunnel of the S.S.36 highway leading to Verceia, near railway crossing no. 7. The starting point is marked by a totem with a stylized image of a horse’s head. Along the path, you will also find signs with anecdotes and stories.

The road winds through the rocky cliffs of Sasso Corbé, where the view stretches over Lake Mezzola, the Pian di Spagna, and Lake Como. From here, the mule track becomes easier to walk, and soon you’ll reach the hamlet dominated by the Church of San Fedele, followed by the location of Poncià on the banks of the Ratti stream. In the past, a bridge was supposed to be built here, and beyond it, the road continued through the ancient village of Verceia, eventually leading to Chiavenna.

The total length of the hike is approximately four kilometers.

It’s a great way to immerse yourself in nature while discovering the history of our territory.