Lake Como is an oasis of tranquillity, offering a unique combination of warm Mediterranean sunshine, sparkling calm waters against the background of snow covered alpine peaks and just half an hour drive from the cosmopolitan and lively city Milan.
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Lake Como is famous for its exquisite architecture and magnificent Villas, and probably the most famous one is Villa Carlotta, a perfect combination of luxurious interiors (beautiful stuccos, lovely ceiling frescoes and a great art collection, including an Eros and Psyche by Antonio Canova) and luxuriant exteriors planted with over 500 species of plants, trees and shrubs from all over the world.
Lake Como offers something for everyone, fine dining, relaxed cruising, a wealth of outdoor activities or just strolling and taking in the breathtaking views. One of the best vantage points for this breathtaking view is in Piazza Cavour, on the banks of the lake in the town of Como. This cathedral is often cited as the best example of transitional architectural styles: to immediately understand what this means, compare the stunning gothic façade with the 18th-century dome above it.
From Como, it's just a short drive to Cernobbio, whose old town features a delightful collection of picturesque houses and narrow alleys. Nearby is one of the grandest hotels in all Europe, the Villa D'Este whose rooms are almost like museum galleries and whose grounds boast Italy's only "floating swimming pool" (it actually sits atop the lake).
As you travel north you'll see Como's only island, Isola Comacina. The best day of the year to take the ferry over to the island is the week end after June 24th, when St. John's Day is celebrated with a mass in the ruins of the S. Eufemia basilica, followed by a costumed procession and night-time fireworks.
Tremezzo is another lovely lakeside town. There's a classic lakeside promenade, as well as many wonderful old villas (some of which have been converted to hotels), and it's from here you can take a car ferry over to Bellaggio and Varenna, on the opposite shore.
Varenna may be the most picturesque town on the lake, its steep winding alleys lined with charming homes, flowering balconies and lace-curtained windows. Just above it is the ancient castle where Theodolinda, Queen of the Lombards, is said to have died in the 7th century. Two famed villas to visit here are Villa Cipressi, with terraced gardens cascading right down to the shores, and Villa Monastero, a true showcase.
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On the southern shore is Bellaggio, la perla del lago (the pearl of the lake), considered by many to be the most beautiful town in all of Europe. Its narrow cobbled streets, breathtaking views, impeccable homes and glorious villas (pictured above is Villa Serbelloni) make it a most enchanting spot to spend your own unforgettable "Month by the Lake."
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