Accommodation in Lake Como

One of Europe’s most beautiful regions, Lake Como has been well known as a vacation spot for elites and aristocrats all the way back to Roman times. The lake’s crystal blue waters and snow capped mountaintops provide a treat for tourists all the year round. The lake is shaped like a Y, stretching almost 80km from north to south. It is dotted all around with beautiful towns and villages.

Lake Como is Italy’s third largest lake, situated a short drive from the stylish city of Milan and within a few kilometres of the border with Switzerland. * At 410m, Como is one of the deepest lakes in Europe. * The lake has been used as a background for world famous film series, including James Bond and Star Wars.

Towns and resorts have popped up all over the lake, with every type of accommodation on offer: luxury Palace’s formerly owned by European Royals, rustic lakeside cottages, stylish modern townhouses and much more. Como, on the southwestern tip of the lake is the largest town, not the prettiest place to stay but one of the most convenient for exploring the lakes other settlements. The villages of Griante, surrounded by Roman villas, and Nesso, on the western leg of the lake, are both excellent locations for a bit of peace and quiet. Bellagio is one of the most beautiful towns, although also one of the most expensive. History lovers will enjoy exploring the ruins of Vezio Castle, up above the village of Varenna. The best views of the lake are found in the towns at the northern tip - Colico and Gravedona in particular.

Up in the mountains, the lake and the surrounding scenery are the main attraction when visiting this region. Come in the summer for the chance to relax on the beaches and swim in the crystal blue waters fresh from the mountains; visit in the winter to see the landscape at its most dramatic and desolate. Remember that during the winter months many of the lakeside resorts close down, although there are several ski fields within a short driving distance. The lake’s history is also particularly interesting, several of the towns boast majestic holiday homes, formerly owned by Europe’s elites and now open to the public; as well ancient ruins, castles and other fascinating spots to explore. Primarily though, Lake Como is a place to relax, sitting outside in a quaint town square with cup of coffee or glass of wine; and to enjoy the outdoors, exploring the lakes islands and the surrounding mountains.

Lake Como is a fantastic place to experience Italy’s world famous cuisine. Local’s are proud of their produce and delicious, fresh dishes from local farms and fisheries are on offer throughout the summer season. The lake is famous for its perch, which crops in all kinds of local dishes. For something really special, find a restaurant serving ‘Le Specialita Lariane’, where freshly caught fish is delivered from the lake and then smoked right there in front of you. Of course, all of Italy’s finest dishes are on offer in the towns surrounding Lake Como, as well as the usual selection of fantastic wines. If you’re preparing your own food, there is a fantastic market in Como on saturdays and Lenno on Tuesdays, where you can pick up some great fresh ingredients. Como has a few bars and a busy atmosphere all summer long, most of the other settlements are quiet in terms of nightlife, although restaurants do stay open late.

Lake Como is most easily accessed by train from Milan or Bergamo to the south. By car, it can also be reached via Lugano or St. Moritz in Switzerland, and in the summer months via the Splügen Pass to the north. A train service between St. Moritz and Milan stops at many of the main towns along the eastern lake shore. Overnight trains from Germany also stop in Como on the way down to Milan. Boats and Hydrofoil ferries run regularly between Como and Colico, stopping at most major towns en-route. There is a frequent ferry service running the ‘triangle’ route between the towns of Menaggio, Bellagio and Varenna at the centre of the Lake. Cars and bicycles can be rented easily, although the steep roads and hairpin bends are not for the faint hearted. Hailing a taxi in the street is not common in the region, although you will be able to arrange one via telephone without much difficulty.