Although Lecco might be best known for its stunning lakes, it is the mountain municipalities that are now capturing attention with surprising growth and fresh energy. Nestled among the dramatic peaks and valleys of the Orobic Prealps, these mountain communities are staking their claim as vibrant and essential parts of the region.
Lecco’s mountain municipalities are emerging with fresh vitality, transforming breathtaking alpine landscapes into hubs of growth and vibrant community life.
From the sheer summit of Mount Legnone, which towers at 2,609 meters, to the charming valleys that ripple between the Grigne and Resegone mountain chains, the landscape is nothing short of breathtaking. Alpine and pre-alpine terrain dominate the scene, providing not only postcard views but a unique environment that shapes daily life. The highest point in the area is Mount Resegone at 1,875 meters (6,152 ft), adding to the dramatic topography that defines these municipalities.
The organization of these municipalities adds to their growing importance. Lecco province, which comprises 84 separate municipalities, boasts 16 recognized mountain municipalities, with their own distinct challenges and advantages.
While most of these mountain towns are small, often home to fewer than 3,000 people, they are full of character and resilience. In fact, the combined mountain area around Lake Como now consists of 41 municipalities across both the Lecco and Como provinces—a number that’s expected to keep rising as more communities seek recognition and support for their mountain identity.
Population-wise, mountain municipalities have about 70 inhabitants per square kilometer, a modest density compared to city centers yet lively given the alpine terrain. Many residents still live in valleys and accessible parts, making the most of both natural beauty and economic opportunity.
Speaking of the economy, the Lecco Metalworking District includes 28 municipalities, and traditions of textile and manufacturing thrive in both valleys and towns, with business sites scattered across the ridges and roads.
Connecting these communities isn’t always easy, but modern tunnels and roads like State Road 36 and the impressive Lecco-Valsassina link have opened up surprising new possibilities. Surrounded by lush alpine vegetation and sparkling lakes like Como and Pusiano, these mountain municipalities aren’t just holding on—they’re growing, innovating, and becoming a central part of Lecco’s regional future.
