Italy is a famous place for tourism, and in this beautiful country, there are certain locations where to travel is a must. One of these places is Lake Como. Over the years, many people have come to explore Lake Como and its charming towns. There are also activities in Lake Como perfect for those who love the outdoors.
Lake Como, or Lago di Comoin Italian, is Italy’s deepest lake. Incidentally, its depth is not the reason for its popularity, but the beautiful villas and the resort villages that surround it. Even Hollywood stars like George Clooney are drawn to its beauty; he once owned a house in Lake Como before putting it up for sale. Regular tourists like you won’t have to buy a house in this place just to enjoy the sceneries, though. Here are some of the best ways to explore Lake Como.
Visiting the Bellagio
The Bellagio is a beautiful setting where two branches of Lake Como meet. It is also known as the Pearl of Lake, with panoramic lake views and a nearby lakeside promenade. Bellagio is also famous for Villa Melzi and its beautiful gardens. Shopping here is also one of the most worthwhile activities in Lake Como; Bellagio is famous for rare items and handicrafts made by local craftsmen not found anywhere else, even in Lake Como. From the town of Como, you can ride a ferry or a bus to reach this small village that will surely take you back to the medieval times.
Walking in Menaggio
One of recommended activities in Lake Como is taking a walk along Menaggio’s lakeside promenade. As other tourists describe it, walking in this resort is just like a fairytale from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. The ornate houses in Menaggio will take you out of reality and straight into a place that you thought only exists in the imagination. Outdoor enthusiasts can also hike, swim, windsurf and rock climb at this lively resort.
Touring Villa Carlotta
Another local spot which makes Lake Como one of the best places where to travel is Villa Carlotta. This old villa and botanical garden was originally built for Milanese Marquis Giorgio Clerici, a person of authority during the then Austrian domination, in 1690. Today, it features an Italian garden with dramatic landscape and sculptures. Inside the villa, the architecture and many fine works of art will also captivatesthe travelling tourist.
Visiting Villa del Balbianello
The best way to explore Lake Como is to visit its age-old villas, such as Villa del Balbianello. It was built in 1787 for the Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini. After his death, the wealthy marquis Giuseppe Arconati Visconti bought it and improved its garden landscape and loggia. Today, the villa showcases explorer Guido Monzino’s rich collections and artifacts acquired during his many expeditions, when he was still alive.
Fishing in Varenna
Aside from these tourist spots, another popular place in Lake Como where to travel is a must is the fishing village of Varenna. This village is also famous for its picturesque narrow alleys and lakeside walking path.
