96 LAKE COMO...

From what I've seen on Casino Royale, Top Gear, and Gazzetta Football Italia, Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. But what else do we have to look forward to when we get there on our trip?

Lake Como, or Lago di Como in Italian, is a stunning glacial lake in the Lombardy region of northern Italy.  Known for its deep blue waters, Mediterranean climate, and breathtaking landscapes framed by the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is one of Italy's largest and most scenic lakes.  

Lake Como has long been a favourite destination for visitors seeking natural beauty, relaxation, and a taste of Italian elegance. Dotted with historic villas, charming towns, and luxurious resorts, it is a prime destination for travellers worldwide.

Geography and Natural Beauty

Lake Como is shaped like an upside-down Y, with three main branches that meet at Bellagio, a picturesque town often called the 'Pearl of the Lake'.  The lake covers an area of about 146 square kilometres (56 square miles).  It has a maximum depth of approximately 410 meters (1,345 feet), making it one of the deepest lakes in Europe. 

The surrounding hills and mountains rise steeply from the lakeshore, creating a dramatic contrast between the water and the rugged, forested slopes.  This unique setting makes Lake Como one of Italy's most beautiful natural attractions.

Towns and Villages

The shores of Lake Como are lined with picturesque towns, each with its own character and appeal:

Como: The lake's namesake city, Como, lies at the southern tip of the lake. It's known for its historic centre, Gothic Como Cathedral, and scenic promenade along the waterfront.  Como also has a funicular that takes visitors to Brunate, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Bellagio: Located at the intersection of the lake's three branches, Bellagio is famous for its elegant villas, narrow cobbled streets, and beautiful gardens.  Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni, with their exquisite gardens, are highlights in Bellagio.  The town's location and charm have made it one of Lake Como's most popular destinations.

Varenna: A quieter, traditional fishing village across the lake from Bellagio, Varenna is known for its medieval charm, colourful houses, and waterfront cafes.  Villa Monastero, a former convent, features beautiful botanical gardens that stretch along the lake.

Tremezzo: Home to Villa Carlotta, an 18th-century villa with stunning botanical gardens and an art collection, Tremezzo is a popular visitor spot.  The town has a lovely lakeside promenade and offers easy access to other lakeside attractions.

Menaggio: Another famous town on the western shore, Menaggio is known for its lakeside walkways, scenic views, and charming piazza.  It's a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and watersports.

Historic Villas and Gardens

Lake Como is famous for its grand historic villas and lavish gardens, many dating back to the Renaissance and 18th centuries.  These villas are often surrounded by lush gardens, offering visitors beautiful lake views and a glimpse into the lives of Italy's aristocracy.

Villa Carlotta: Located in Tremezzo, this villa was built in the late 17th century and is known for its elaborate botanical gardens featuring rhododendrons, azaleas, and other exotic plants.  The villa also contains art by Italian masters such as Canova and Thorvaldsen.

Villa Melzi: Situated in Bellagio, this neoclassical villa boasts well-maintained gardens filled with rare plants, sculptures, and fountains, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring Bellagio.

Villa del Balbianello: Perched on a promontory near Lenno, this villa is famous for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Lake Como.  It has been the setting for several films, including Star Wars: Episode II and Casino Royale. The villa was left to the Italian National Trust (FAI) and is open to the public.

Climate

Lake Como has a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and relatively mild winters.  The climate allows for the growth of Mediterranean plants like olive trees, cypress, and palms, as well as a range of flowering plants and exotic species.  This unique vegetation enhances the beauty of the lake, particularly in the spring when gardens and villas are in full bloom.

Outdoor Activities

Lake Como is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities on both water and land:

Boating and Sailing: The lake's calm waters are ideal for sailing, yachting, and motor boating.  Numerous boat rental companies and ferry services allow visitors to explore the lake and visit various towns.

Watersports: Activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and paddle boarding are popular on Lake Como, especially in the summer.

Hiking and Cycling: The hills and mountains surrounding the lake are crisscrossed with scenic hiking and biking trails.  Trails like the Greenway del Lago di Como offer routes through charming towns, forests, and viewpoints.

Swimming: Several towns around the lake, such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, have designated areas for swimming.  The lake's clear waters are refreshing in summer.

Luxury and Leisure

Lake Como is well-known as a luxury destination, drawing international visitors, including celebrities and royalty.  Luxury hotels, upscale restaurants, and exclusive villas cater to high-end travellers, creating a chic and relaxed atmosphere. Grand Hotel Tremezzo and Villa d'Este in Cernobbio are two of the most famous luxury hotels known for their historical charm and stunning lakeside locations.

Hollywood Appeal

Lake Como has become a favourite retreat for celebrities, with actor George Clooney famously owning a villa on its shores, Villa Oleandra in Laglio.  The lake has also been featured in several films, including Ocean's Twelve, Casino Royale, and Star Wars: Episode II.  This Hollywood appeal has contributed to Lake Como's status as a glamorous and exclusive vacation spot.

History and Culture

Lake Como has been inhabited since Roman times and has long been a popular retreat for Italy's elite.  Roman villas, ancient churches, and medieval castles can still be found around the lake.  The lake's location near Milan and Switzerland made it a hub of trade and commerce in medieval and Renaissance Italy.  Today, its towns and villages preserve a blend of Italian and Swiss influences, seen in the area's architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

Cuisine

The cuisine around Lake Como combines Italian flavours with local ingredients, often focusing on fish from the lake. Popular dishes include:

Missoltino: This dish is made from sun-dried lake fish, typically with polenta.

Risotto al Pesce Persico: Risotto with perch, a lake fish, flavoured with local herbs and olive oil.

Polenta: A Northern Italian staple often served with meat, cheese, or fish.

Olive Oil: The lake's mild climate allows for the cultivation of olive trees, which produce high-quality olive oil, a key ingredient in local dishes.

Local wines, especially from the nearby Valtellina region, pair beautifully with the lake's cuisine.  Lake Como is also known for grappa, a distilled grape-based spirit popular in northern Italy.

Lake Como is a stunning blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and Italian sophistication.  Its picturesque towns, luxurious villas, and scenic landscapes make it a beloved destination for travellers looking for relaxation, adventure, and a taste of Italian elegance.