Europe

Lake Como Guide

Lake Como is a place of utter charm with multiple picturesque towns nestling its shore and snowcapped alps towering above. It has long been a hideaway for the rich and famous who come to bask in the peace and tranquility which abound. It is the ultimate weekend getaway for Italians and foreigners alike, and anyone wanting to slow down to the gentle pace which the lake inspires. Here is a guide to help you navigate your way around the lake including which towns to visit, which villas to see and which restaurants to eat at.

Bellagio
Bellagio is by far the prettiest of all the towns on Lake Como. It’s a town entirely given up to tourism but curiously that doesn’t seem to hinder its charm. This pretty as a postcard town instantly captures hearts with its lakeside terraces and cobbled backstreets.
location
open

Varenna
Varenna is a short ferry ride away from Bellagio. It’s reminiscent of a quaint fishing village with boats docked in the small harbour. It’s a lovely walk from the waterfront to the town square which is overlooked by the medieval San Giorgio church.
location
open

Menaggio
Menaggio is the least touristy of all the towns we visited. It has a more authentic feel to it, with Italians going about their daily routine, the cacophony of cars and the general hustle and bustle of town life. It’s still very pretty with a flower and tree-lined lakeshore and an old square to sit with a gelato in hand.
location
open

Cadenabbia
Not many people come to Cadenabbia for the town itself, but instead use it as a base to explore other parts. I found it to be quite charming especially the walk along the lake which offers beautiful views over Bellagio in the distance.
location
open

Lenno
Lenno is famously known for its production of cold pressed olive oil, said to be the best in the Italian lakes. The town itself is sleepier than most, but its peaceful nature only adds to its charm. Take a walk around the surrounding countryside and pass by olive groves en route.
location
open

Greenway Walk
For those who enjoy walking, this route takes you through picturesque villages and up and down hills that engulf the lake, offering spectacular panoramic views at every turn. It gives a different perspective of the lake and allows you to appreciate not only how enormous it is, but also how beautiful the surrounding landscape is.
location
open

Villa Del Balbianello
Of all the villas to visit on Lake Como, this is the one I would recommend the most. Situated on a branch of the lake, this villa seemingly juts out from the water in all its splendor. The beautiful plant-covered villa is set amongst verdant gardens which overlook the majestic lake and surrounding mountains.
location
open

Villa Melzi
Villa Melzi is one of the first landmarks you notice from the ferry ride into Bellagio. Its white façade is quite striking, but it’s the vast gardens decorated with sculptures that entice most people to visit.
location
open

Villa Carlotta
Villa Carlotta is more famously known for its beautiful botanical gardens. Located on a steep incline, the further into the gardens you get, the better the view over the lake. Pass from rose gardens to bamboo forests on your ascent.
location
open

Villa Serbelloni
This neoclassical villa is one of Belaggio’s few grand five star hotels. Located on the edge of the lake with vine covered walls and wisteria abound. The grounds can only be visited on guided tours, but with gardens as pretty as these, it would be sinful not to book. Alternatively, pop into the elegant bar, little changed since it’s opening, with frescoed ceilings and marble columns where a live pianist plays late into the night.
location
open

Ristorante Bilacus
In the heart of Bellagio along a cobbled street, lies this rooftop terrace restaurant. Instead of panoramic views over the lake, it offers a view over the bustling backstreets and multi-coloured buildings below. The menu is full of Italian favourites and each of the dishes are executed to perfection.
location
open

Ristorante la Punta
If lakeside views are what you’re after, then the location of this restaurant doesn’t get much better. A little far removed from the town center, located on the point of the lake, this is perhaps the most romantic dining choice on Lake Como. The menu offers freshly caught lake fish and Italian classics.
location
open

Grand Hotel Tremezzo
It was the floating swimming pool which initially caught our eye and its decked terrace dotted with Aperol Spritz which drew us in. You don’t have to be a guest at this luxury five start hotel, to dine here. Its lunch menu is simple, offering only the chefs favourites but with a setting so perfect and pasta dishes so delicious, you soon realise that simple is best.
location
open

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Shelby says:

June 26, 2016 at 2:46 pm

wow it’s so beautiful! I ran out of time on my Italy trip to make it here but now I definitely need to go back! Stunning photos :]
The Fernweh Wolf / Travel & Lifestyle Blog
xx

jenaly says:

June 26, 2016 at 6:03 pm

Looks like such a beautiful area. I must go someday!!

http://www.inmydreams.ca/