From the moment we arrived, Italy felt like a breath of fresh air after a long winter in Boston. This trip, focused on Italy, was inspired by a desire for both stunning scenery and the chance to explore a region rich in history and natural beauty. We decided to spend our time around Lake Como, a destination that promised just that, and it certainly delivered.
Springtime Awakening Around the Lake
Visiting in early April, we were greeted by the gentle awakening of spring around Lake Como. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of blossoming flowers. It’s truly a magical time to see the landscape come alive.
Botanical Wonders and Lakeside Strolls
One of our first stops was Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, a place that lived up to all the beautiful descriptions. Open from April through November, its botanical gardens are a must-see. Walking along the paths, surrounded by ancient cedars, towering sequoias, and elegant plane trees, felt like stepping into another world. The vibrant colours of wisteria, camellias, and rhododendrons painting the waterfront villas were simply breathtaking. It was wonderful to be able to explore these gardens at our own pace.
The mild, sunny days were absolutely perfect for leisurely lakeside strolls. After the quieter winter months, the local ferries were back to their full schedule, making it so easy to hop between the charming villages lining the shore. We made sure to visit some of the popular spots like Cernobbio, Bellagio, and Varenna. But honestly, the smaller, lesser-known hamlets like Torno and Menaggio were just as picturesque, offering a more tranquil experience away from the crowds.
Inside Villa Carlotta, beyond the gardens, we found a museum housing impressive works by sculptors such as Antonio Canova, Bertel Thorvaldsen, and Giovanni Migliara. It was a lovely blend of art and nature, a perfect introduction to the cultural richness of the region.
What are the best spring flowers at Villa Carlotta?
In spring, you’ll see spectacular displays of wisteria, camellias, and rhododendrons throughout the gardens. The contrast between these vibrant blooms and the green slopes is truly remarkable.
The seasonal flowers add an incredible layer of beauty to the already stunning landscape, making every corner a photographic opportunity.
Summer’s Embrace on the Water
While we visited in spring, I can imagine summer on Lake Como must be an entirely different, yet equally enticing, experience. The articles I’d read painted a picture of endless water-based fun and vibrant lakeside events.
Embracing Lake Activities
Summer is undoubtedly the busiest time, but it’s also the prime season for engaging in a wide array of watersports. From water skiing and standup paddleboarding to kayaking and diving, there are numerous outlets along the shores offering activities for everyone. It’s fascinating to learn that rowing is something locals take particular pride in, with traditional Lucia boats making appearances during local festivals.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, I envision elegant rides on classic Riva boats, cruising past stately facades and meticulously landscaped gardens. I can picture the skippers sharing captivating tales of the lake’s notable residents and history, adding a personal touch to the scenic journey.
The warm weather also heralds a busy calendar of waterside events. The historic Festival of San Giovanni in June, with its regatta of traditional Lucia rowing boats and a spectacular fireworks display over Comacina Island, sounds like an unforgettable cultural spectacle. Re-enacting the fire that led to the island’s historic abandonment adds a dramatic historical layer to the celebration.
Music enthusiasts would also find plenty to enjoy with annual events like the Como City of Music Festival and the LacMus Festival, which host concerts and performances in villas and other beautiful locations around the lake. Comacina Island itself, with its Mediterranean vegetation of olives, linden, and laurel, sounds like a unique place to explore.
When is the Festival of San Giovanni?
The Festival of San Giovanni takes place every June and features a regatta of traditional Lucia rowing boats and a firework display.
This vibrant festival is deeply connected to the island’s history and offers a unique glimpse into local traditions and celebrations.
Autumn’s Golden Hues and Culinary Delights
As the summer crowds recede, autumn transforms Lake Como into a haven of tranquility and natural beauty, a season I found particularly appealing for a more reflective travel experience.
Hiking Trails and Local Flavors
By mid-September, a sense of calm returns to the lake as children head back to school. This period offers mild weather, perfect for appreciating the surrounding landscape draped in stunning autumnal colours. Scores of trails meander along the hillsides, inviting visitors to take in the serene atmosphere.
A hike up the steep trail opposite Varenna’s Villa Monastero to reach Castello di Vezio is highly recommended. The reward is magnificent vistas overlooking the lake, a truly unforgettable panorama. For a gentler exploration, the Lake Como Greenway is a fantastic option. This signposted, six-mile trail winds through lush greenery, connecting eight picturesque hamlets. You can choose to walk the entire length, from Colonno to Griante, in about three hours, or simply enjoy one of the seven shorter stretches.
Autumn is also an opportune time to indulge in the hearty culinary offerings of Lombardy, the region surrounding the lake. The food in and around Como, the lake’s main hub, makes exceptional use of local produce. Traditional regional dishes like braised wild boar, creamy mushroom polenta, and flavourful perch risotto are highlights. Whether you’re dining on terraces in elegant restaurants, seeking out cozy trattorias, or experiencing a sagra (food festival dedicated to local delicacies), there’s something to satisfy every palate.
The Sentiero del Viadante, a trail dating back to Roman times that runs along the eastern coast of Lake Como, presents another opportunity for immersive hiking experiences. Its 28-mile length offers a journey through history and enchanting landscapes.
What are traditional Lombardy dishes?
Popular dishes include braised wild boar, mushroom polenta, and perch risotto, showcasing the region’s use of local produce.
These hearty meals are perfect for post-hike enjoyment and offer a true taste of the area’s culinary heritage.
Winter’s Cozy Charm and Festive Spirit
While not typically associated with lakeside destinations, winter at Lake Como offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and festive charm, with opportunities for both snow sports and cozy city explorations.
From Slopes to City Lights
Winter sport enthusiasts might be surprised to discover quiet ski resorts just a half-hour’s drive from the lake, such as Piani di Bobbio and Monte Sighignola. For more extensive skiing, popular winter destinations like Livigno and Bormio are accessible within a couple of hours, placing the heart of the Alps within reach.
Back in the towns, Como’s Città dei Balocchi festivities during the Christmas season provide ample entertainment for both children and adults. This includes a vibrant Christmas market, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. The Magic Light Festival illuminates the historic centre’s piazzas with colourful displays, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s a wonderful time to experience the city’s festive spirit.
Lake Como has a long-standing history as a silk manufacturing hub, and the walled part of the city is an excellent place for Christmas shopping, with numerous shops selling high-quality scarves and ties. The city’s convenient location, less than an hour by train from Milan, also makes it an easy base for day trips to Italy’s capital of fashion and design.
What winter activities are available near Lake Como?
You can enjoy skiing at nearby resorts like Piani di Bobbio and Monte Sighignola, or explore Como’s Christmas market and light festival.
The city transforms into a festive wonderland, offering a delightful contrast to the quieter natural surroundings.
Planning Your Italian Getaway
For those considering a stay deeply integrated with the Lake Como experience, hotels like the Hilton Lake Como offer a unique blend of history and modern comfort. Originally a silk factory, the building’s past is palpable, and it now houses well-appointed guest rooms and suites.
A Memorable Stay
The spacious rooms, filled with natural light and offering scenic views, provide a comfortable retreat. Imagine waking up to vistas of the hotel’s internal courtyard, the neighbouring city, or the iconic lake itself. The Presidential Suite, with its expansive rooftop terrace, and the Loft Suite, boasting a glass roof for stargazing from your bed, represent truly special options for a memorable visit.
Dining at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, enjoying grilled lobster or freshly made pasta with al fresco cocktails, sounds like a perfect way to end a day of exploration. Even during the colder months, the heated infinity outdoor pool offers a unique experience. For relaxation, the spa provides signature treatments like the Silk Touch Massage, ideal for easing muscles after a day of hiking or skiing.
One evening, while dining, I remembered how Michael had mentioned wanting to find a place with amazing views for an engagement photo shoot years ago. Lake Como, with its dramatic landscapes and charming villages, would have been the perfect backdrop. It made me think about how much our older daughter, Lily, would have loved wandering through those botanical gardens during spring, her eyes wide with wonder at all the colours. And I could see Ethan, our youngest, being utterly captivated by the magic of the Christmas lights in Como, his little hands reaching out to touch the sparkling displays.
This region of Italy truly offers something for every season and every traveler, from the active adventurer to the culture seeker and the family looking for beautiful memories. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, soak in the beauty, and create your own unforgettable stories.