Argegno–Pigra Cable Car: reopening, timetable and panoramic hikes on Lake Como
The Argegno-Pigra Cable Car, one of the most scenic transport links on Lake Como, will reopen to the public on Saturday 14 March 2026 after a period of extraordinary maintenance that began on 14 January.
In just a few minutes, the cable car takes visitors from the lakeside village of Argegno up to Pigra, a charming mountain village overlooking the lake. Pigra is considered one of the most beautiful panoramic viewpoints on Lake Como and is an excellent starting point for walks, hikes and nature excursions.
Argegno–Pigra cable car timetable
Here are the updated operating hours:
- Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Frequency: departures every 15 minutes
- Travel time: approximately 4–6 minutes between Argegno and Pigra
Useful information
- Tickets: can be purchased directly at the cable car stations in Argegno or Pigra. Credit cards are accepted.
- Cabin capacity: up to 12 passengers
- Pets: dogs are allowed on the cable car but must be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle
- Accessibility: for passengers with disabilities, the Municipality of Pigra provides a free shuttle bus. The service must be booked through the Red Cross (Croce Rossa Centro Valle) at least 24–48 hours in advance.
Walks and hiking trails from Pigra
Once you reach Pigra by cable car, several hiking options are available, suitable for families as well as more experienced hikers.
Easy walks (family friendly)
Pigra panoramic viewpoint
A short walk of about 5 minutes through the woods leads to one of the most spectacular viewpoints on Lake Como.
Gnome Forest (Bosco degli Gnomi)
A small themed forest trail that is especially popular with children.
Alpe di Colonno
An easy path leading to a mountain pasture with a refuge where visitors can enjoy traditional local dishes and beautiful views over the lake.
Moderate hikes
Cyclamen Trail (Sentiero dei Ciclamini – Trail no.1)
This trail connects Pigra to Alpe di Colonno via the “Strada dei Monti”. The hike includes around 700 metres of elevation gain and takes about 5 hours round trip.
Corniga
A scenic circular route that follows an old mule track down to the historic rural village.
More challenging panoramic hikes
Monte Galbiga and Rifugio Venini
One of the most spectacular hiking routes in the area. From here the view stretches across Lake Como, Lake Lugano and the surrounding Alps. Experienced hikers can continue towards Monte Crocione.
Argegno–Pigra mule path
Visitors who prefer not to take the cable car can follow the historic mule trail connecting Argegno to Pigra. The hike takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Where to eat in Pigra
After a walk or a hike, Pigra offers several places where visitors can enjoy local cuisine or relax with a drink.
Near the cable car station:
Le Lanterne di Pigra
Located right next to the cable car station, this restaurant and pizzeria serves traditional mountain dishes such as polenta with venison, wild boar, braised beef and porcini mushrooms. Outdoor seating is available.
Friends of Mountains (Il Baretto)
Ideal for a quick aperitif, a beer or a snack after a hike.
Il Capannone
Offers homemade cuisine with local specialties such as game meat, tripe and cassoeula.
Mountain refuges along the trails
If you continue hiking above Pigra, you will find several alpine refuges along the trails.
Rifugio Alpe di Colonno (1320 m)
Easily reachable from Pigra, this refuge offers spectacular lake views and traditional alpine dishes such as polenta and local cheeses.
Rifugio Alpino Boffalora (1250 m)
Located along the road towards Monte Galbiga, it is known for its warm hospitality and traditional cuisine.
Rifugio Venini (1576 m)
Located at Bocchetta di Galbiga between Monte Galbiga and Monte Tremezzo, it offers one of the most breathtaking views in the area.
Useful tip
If you plan to have lunch on Sunday, it is recommended to book in advance, especially at popular spots such as Le Lanterne di Pigra or the Alpe di Colonno refuge, which are frequently visited by tourists arriving via the cable car.