Dervio
Welcome to Dervio: a peaceful gem on the eastern shore of Lake Como
If you are planning to visit the province of Lecco, Dervio is certainly a must-see destination. With just over 2600 inhabitants and its location on the lake shore, this town is a true gem that will surprise you. Let's discover it together.
Physical geography: between streams and mountains
Dervio is located on the eastern shore of Lake Como and owes its conoidal shape to the Varrone stream that crosses it. The Valvarrone (valley) is the origin of the stream, which then deposits rocky sediments on the bottom of the lake and forms the Dervio peninsula. The hamlets of Pianezzo, Mai, Monte, Pratolungo, and Vignago offer splendid breathtaking views. The provincial road of Valvarrone (SP67) will allow you to reach Lavadee and Rifugio Roccoli Lorla, from where the trail to Monte Legnone, the highest peak in the province of Lecco and the Orobie Alps, begins. The climate is mild with hot and short summers, but pleasant winters.
Origin of the name: between Celtic language and ancient worship
The name "Dervio" probably derives from the Celtic language "Dervo" or "Derw", which means oak, probably due to the ancient presence of sacred oaks. Other theories suggest that it refers to the worship of the "Matres and Matronae Dervonnae". The hypothesis of a Greek origin from Delphi, widespread in the 19th century, is now considered unreliable.
History: an important passage of the Spluga route
During the Roman Empire, Dervio was crossed by the "via Spluga", which connected Milan to Lindau via the Spluga Pass. In the 10th century, the Monastery of Santa Cristina owned some properties in Dervio. In 1480, the Riviera di Lecco, including Dervio, Mandello del Lario, Bellano, Varenna, Corenno Plinio, and Introzzo, was granted in fief to Pietro II Dal Verme, Count of Bobbio, Voghera, and Castel San Giovanni. After his death, the fief was assigned to Chiara Sforza, daughter of Galeazzo Maria Sforza, widow of Dal Verme. Her heirs, the Fregoso, ceded Dervio and the other fiefs of the Riviera to the Sfondrati in 1533.
Symbols
The symbol of Dervio is the castle of Orezia, built in the late Middle Ages on a rock that dominates the village to block the road of Valvarrone. Today, only the large tower remains, offering a panoramic view of the lake.
Where to stay and what to do
Dervio offers various accommodation options, such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, and holiday apartments. For outdoor activities lovers, there are excursions along Lake Como and the surrounding mountains, cycle paths, canyoning, kayaking, and stand-up paddling. For those seeking relaxation, the beaches of the Dervio peninsula are ideal.
What to eat
In Dervio, you will find numerous restaurants and trattorias where you can taste Lombard typical cuisine with dishes based on meat, lake fish, polenta, risotto, cheeses, and homemade cakes. Don't miss the "cassoeula", a traditional dish based on pork meat and cabbage.
Conclusions
If you are looking for a peaceful holiday in a charming location, Dervio is the right choice for you. We hope to have convinced you to visit this small gem of Lombardy on the shores of Lake Como.
