Discoveries
(65 reviews)Soak up the beauty and relaxed ambience of three of Italy's lakes. Staying in a hotel on the peaceful shores of Lake Orta, quieter than its famed neighbours, we explore Como's lakeside towns and elegant Stresa on Lake Maggiore, Italy's second largest lake. On this holiday of picturesque lakes, mountains and stunning views, cruise to tiny islands...
Located in the foothills of the Italian and Swiss Alps, beautiful Lake Como is Italy's deepest lake. Set within picturesque, almost fjord-like, scenery - where towering mountains fall steeply to the water's edge - Lake Como enjoys a mild climate. Even during the hotter summer months, it is possible to see snow on the mountain tops surrounding the lake.
Lake Como has, for centuries, been a popular destination for Italians escaping the heat of the cities, and as a result there are many historic and beautiful villas lining the shores, such as the Villa Carlotta and the Villa D'Este, as well as many larger villas - in recent years, many of these have been converted into luxury hotels. The area's beauty has made it hugely popular with celebrities, who have chosen to make Como their second or third home, while Lake Como has featured as a location for the James Bond film, Casino Royale.
There are also many villas on its shores with horticultural gardens that thrive thanks to the mild climate caused by the presence of the lake water. The most famous of these gardens is the Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, which is over 70,000 square metres in size. The botanical garden has over 150 varieties of spring flower, as well as classic varieties of camellias and sequoias. There are also the Rock Garden and the Ferns Valley, the Rhododendrons Wood and the Bamboos Garden, an agricultural tools museum and the magnificent views on the lake to behold.
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Getting around on the ferries
During your free day, you may want to explore the wonders of Lake Como. The easiest way to get around is via a relaxing ferry cruise. Ferries are operated by Como-based company Navigazione Lago di Como. They operate year-round from the small pier at the northern end of Piazza Cavour. Single fares range from €1.80 (Como-Cernobbio) to €9.50 (Como-Lecco). There are other tickets available, including day cruises with lunch and admissions to numerous lakeside villas.
A history of Villa Carlotta
The history of Villa Carlotta is equally as captivating as its gardens. The stunning villa was built towards the end of the 17th century by the Milanese marquis Giorgio Clerici. The building is perched between lake and mountains, facing the Grignas.
In 1801 Gian Battista Sommariva, a famous politician, businessman and patron of arts, bought the property. He made it into one of the main attractions in the region, creating the romantic garden and filling its walls with masterpieces from the world of art, including The Last Kiss of Romeo and Juliet - by Fransesco Hayez.
Princess Marianne of the Netherlands then bought the villa in 1843. She gave it to her daughter, Carlotta, as a wedding present, but tragically she died at the young age of 23. The villa was named after the princess and remained in the Sachsen-Meiningen family until the time of World War I.
Hidden gems around Lake Como
Moto Guzzi
Discover the history and culture of Moto Guzzi, the oldest European manufacturer in continuous motorcycle production, come to life through a special exhibition. There are over 150 pieces in the collection, including production motorcycles, sport bikes, prototypes and experimental engines.
The exhibition area features over 80 vehicles, from the first dedicated touring machine Norge 1928 to the Guzzi Sport and GT series of the thirties.
The Moto Guzzi Museum is located in Mandello del Lario, Lake Como. It is the original birthplace of the Moto Guzzi Eagle emblem, developed in 1921 to honour the death of one of the company's founders. His name was Giovanni Ravelli, a decorated pilot who fought in the Royal navy during World War I.
To dine for... Al Veluu Ristorante
Food and drink is at the heart of Italian culture and Lake Como offers some of the very finest Italian cuisine. It is home to a number of world-class restaurants, with one of the most celebrated being Al Veluu Ristorante.
Even before you walk towards the restaurant entrance through splendid manicured gardens, you sense that you are about to experience something special. You are then taken to the restaurant's beautiful terrace on the gentle slopes of Tremezzo in front of panoramic views of Lake Como and its surrounding mountains.
A wonderfully warm and attentive family team look after you throughout your meal, serving delicious food that is produced and handpicked from their nearby garden.
If you are looking for a romantic meal in a magical setting, then there is nowhere better than Al Veluu Ristorante as dusk settles on sparkling Lake Garda.
