The ferry ride across Lake Como offers a special view of the lakeside towns. Varenna, with its old stone streets and 11th-century church, stands out as one of the best-preserved medieval spots on the lake.
Exploring Lake Como Towns
Bellagio’s Alleyways
Wandering through the narrow streets of Bellagio feels like stepping into a postcard. You’ll find gelato shops scattered about, charming squares, and lovely views appearing around every corner.
The town’s name is famous enough to inspire a major hotel and casino in Las Vegas. As you explore, you’ll pass shops selling local crafts and silks, with the sweet smell of gelato wafting from cafes.
We walked towards the old square, where locals enjoy their coffee and walk their dogs. From there, a steep, jasmine-scented lane leads you up to a hill, and then down the other side into a scene straight out of a romance novel complete with flowers, birds, and cats.
Varenna’s Lakeside Charm
Varenna, located where the three arms of Lake Como meet, has a history dating back to 769 AD. The town climbs up from the water’s edge into the mountains.
Getting lost in its colorful alleys is part of the experience. You’ll eventually find the 14th-century Church of San Giorgio and the beautiful Villa Monastero with its gardens.
To end a perfect day, joining locals on the pebbly beach for a swim in the lake is a lovely way to relax.
Menaggio’s Mountain Trails
Menaggio is worth visiting for its own attractions. It consists of three villages and offers various sights, including remnants of World War I defenses and a public beach.
The real draw for us was the hiking. With over 10 mountain trails in the area, there are options for everyone. We chose a three-hour trek that took us through traditional villages and forests.
The path starts with a steep climb. The effort is rewarded with spectacular views of the lake and villages far below, all accompanied by the distant sound of goat bells.
The Greenway Walk
The Greenway is a 10-kilometer route on the western shore, designed to take visitors through ancient villages and past Roman ruins, villas, and gardens.
We started our walk from our hotel along the lakeshore, following copper plaques marked “Greenway” embedded in the pavement. The path leads through public parks and lively town centers.
Halfway along the route, Villa del Balbianello is a must-see. This 18th-century mansion sits on a peninsula and is surrounded by Roman sculptures and gardens.
Visiting Famous Villas
Villa Carlotta’s Gardens
Stately Villa Carlotta is just a short walk from many lakeside hotels. It sits above the lake, surrounded by eight hectares of stunning gardens.
There are different paths to explore, including a wheelchair-accessible option and longer routes. Each path guides you through the gardens and ends at the villa itself.
We were amazed by the flower beds, fern valley, olive groves, and bamboo garden. The villa, built in 1690, has had several owners, including Princess Charlotte of Prussia.
Inside, you can see impressive art collections by artists like Canova and Hayez. The villa also offers glimpses into past domestic life, with beautiful views of the lake.
Villa del Balbianello’s History
Villa del Balbianello, located on a peninsula near Lenno, is a highlight of the Greenway walk. It’s set amidst Roman sculptures and lush gardens.
The mansion boasts a library with 4,000 books and artifacts from ancient civilizations. It also holds souvenirs from historic expeditions.
Its last owner, Count Guido Monzino, was a keen traveler and led the first Italian expedition to climb Mount Everest.
Villa Monastero’s Botanical Beauty
Villa Monastero, situated south of Varenna, is known for its terraced botanical gardens. Visiting just the gardens can be a more affordable option.
The rose garden here is particularly beautiful. Exploring these gardens offers a peaceful escape with lovely lake views.
How much does it cost to visit villas?
Entry fees for villas are typically around R160 per person.
It’s a good idea to allow at least two hours to fully experience each villa and its grounds.
Experiences and Activities
Silk Production History
Lake Como has a rich history tied to silk production. The Y-shaped lake, stretching over 30 kilometers, has a mild climate perfect for growing mulberry trees, which were first planted around 1400 to feed silkworms.
This led to the development of silk factories and trade routes, attracting skilled craftsmen to the area. The wealth generated by this industry contributed to the construction of many beautiful villas and gardens, making Lake Como a sought-after travel destination.
Where can I learn about silk?
For those interested in the history of silk, the Silk Museum (Museo Seta Como) is located in the city of Como. Entry costs R160 per person.
The museum is closed on Mondays.
Hiking in the Mountains
Lake Como is a hiker’s dream, offering dozens of routes. During our hike from Menaggio, we discovered working farmsteads at the very top of the mountain.
The trails often pass traditional villages, chapels, and dense forests. Following red-and-white markers guides you along these paths.
One notable descent led us past steep cliffs and remote farmsteads to the 16th-century church of San Martino.
What are the hiking trails like?
The Greenway route is well-marked and provides a fantastic way to explore local hamlets and villages. It takes about four hours to walk the entire trail.
There are also boat and bus stops along the Greenway if you wish to shorten your walk.
Swimming in the Lake
Swimming in Lake Como is a refreshing experience. You can find spots all along the lake for a dip.
While some hotels have private beaches, the shoreline is generally open to everyone to enjoy.
Where can I swim?
There are plenty of swimming spots along the lake that don’t cost anything to access.
Local tourism offices can provide detailed maps of hiking routes, and swimming locations are marked.
Getting Around and Planning
Ferries Connect Key Towns
Ferries are a convenient way to travel between Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio. These three towns are often referred to as the ‘golden triangle’ of the lake.
Single ferry trips are reasonably priced, making it easy to hop between locations. They offer scenic journeys across the water.
What are the ferry pass options?
A one-day ferry pass costs R240, and a six-day pass is R725.
These passes provide good value if you plan to use the ferries frequently.
Traveling to Lake Como
Flights are available to Milan Malpensa Airport. From the airport, a taxi to Lake Como takes up to 90 minutes and costs around R1,450.
Alternatively, you can take a train from the airport to the city of Como for about R160, and then catch a taxi or boat from there.
When is the best time to visit?
The period between March and November is considered ideal for visiting Lake Como.
July and August promise sunshine, but also bring larger crowds.
Dining and Refreshments
Gelato Delights
Every town around Lake Como has its own gelaterias. Enjoying a cone of gelato is a simple pleasure.
The average price for two scoops of gelato is around R32.
Local Restaurants
N26 restaurant in Tremezzo offers classic Italian cuisine with terrace seating overlooking the lake. Dishes average around R190.
Pizzeria Lugano in Menaggio, tucked away in an alley, serves delicious thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas for about R113.
Le Specialità Lariane is a food shop in Lenno where you can find local lake fish, prepared in various ways.
What should I know about dining costs?
It’s always wise to check prices before ordering to avoid unexpected charges.
Exploring local eateries can offer great value and authentic flavors.
Reflection on the Experience
Standing on a balcony as a summer storm brews, watching lightning illuminate the lake, brings a sense of connection to the elements. Life here truly revolves around water, mountains, weather, and the earth.
This connection fosters a feeling of harmony and balance. Even the historical visitors, who came seeking glamour and social gatherings, likely left feeling more grounded.
I certainly felt that sense of peace and balance during our stay, a feeling that lingers long after leaving.