Lake Como
How not to fall in love with this lake during your trip to Lombardy. Milan is barely 1h30 and 80 short kilometers away. This lake is for me the most beautiful of all, it offers an enchanting setting that has always conquered the Italian aristocracy. 418 meters deep, with an area of 146 km2, its circumference is 170 km, it was naturally carved into the mountain slopes of the Prealps of Como and Bergamo.
Some will tell you about Lake Garda or Lake Maggiore...which are also magnificent...I will tell you about them in another post. But I remain fascinated by this place. Less visited than the two big brothers mentioned above, you will have plenty of time to take pictures without being bothered by the hordes of tourists. You can first visit the city of Como, starting with its charming historic center.
These small shops and cafes protected behind the remains of the old 12th century walls, its majestic cathedral, its lakeside villas. Why not take a coffee break in Piazza Cavour or San Fedele You will also find in these alleys silk articles which have made the wealth of this city. You have the possibility to visit the Della Seta museum, you will know everything about the history of silk in Como. And then, walking along, you will find yourself in its small port where you can embark on a mini cruise on the lake.
On your return you will be able to see charming piers bordering the lake
But Como is not the only city to visit during your Lombard Road-Trip.
Bellagio is an essential city to discover. Located 40 km north of Como on the right bank of the lake, you need 1 hour to reach it "quietly". I say quietly because in summer and especially on weekends there are crowds on the road. The Milanese like to come and stroll in this city, to see the boats pitching in its small port, to climb the steep alleys dotted with charming shops.
You can choose to come by boat from Como. This short walk will take you around 45 minutes for just under 10 euros. Honestly recommend if you are in Como in the summer...you will enjoy the view from the lake on the shores, safe and stress free. Unless you intend to visit the easternmost arm of the lake by going towards Lecco and then going up towards Varenne which is also a superb town.
Anyway, you will love your enchanting stay in this city where lake, mountain and sweetness of life will amaze you.
To end this blog around Lake Como, I will tell you about the town of Menaggio. Located on the west shore of the lake 45 mins and 30 km from Como. Its pier will inspire all the photographers in the world... this breathtaking view of the immensity of the lake and its mountains which plunge into these pure waters coming from the Alps.
You will also visit its pretty historic center with cobbled streets and why not take a short break in one of the many cafes on the main square overlooking the lake.
Here we end our trip on Lake Como on a nice note. Beautiful photos, magnificent landscapes, a relaxed way of life...that's Lake Como.