Lake Como, Lombardia Provence, Italy

Being our first time to Lake Como, we weren't sure where to stay. We knew that Lake Como, situated in the North of Italy in the Lombardia region, and it is the most popular lake of the three in this area, the other two being Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore.

We didn't want to be in the busiest area but still have easy access to the more popular spots. So we checked out the map and chose Menaggio for its position and its triangle with Bellagio & Varenna.

Menaggio

As mentioned in my previous post, this town is less hectic as Bellagio with a smaller town feel. The locals meet & greet daily over coffee in the piazza, and it has a more relaxed feel. The shoreline is lovely and at the end of the promenade they have their Lido - bathing pool area with a beautiful pebble beach. 

Menaggio marina

Bellagio

The town of Bellagio well-known tourist area and home of 'George Clooney', is an easy ferry ride from Menaggio.  The town lined with stores and restaurants that meet all different cuisines and budgets. You can explore the area and keep finding little gems hidden in this city. Having an affinity for water, we always tend to gravitate to areas, accommodation or restaurants that are over the water.

Bellagio has all of this and more, but for us on this trip too many people.

We had heard about a well-known local artist designer of silk scarves & handbags and sought him out. Pierangelo Masciardi designs are unique and in limited editions; his stylish ties have been worn by some the American presidents.

Varenna

Varenna is smaller the Menaggio & Bellagio and has a feel of a medieval fortress, with the heart of the town being behind the port & shoreline.  From the foreshore, you head up to the central Piazza that's towards the back of the neighborhood whereas, with the other places we visited, they were at the foreshore.  The laneways and alleys are narrow and have steps that lead up towards that Piazza. It's nowhere near as touristy yet has some beautiful villas and gardens. Villa Monastero is a must see, unfortunately, the villa was closed the day we went but the gardens where and open and worth a visit on their own.

Views of Varenna

Wherever you stay along Lake Como, you have a feast for your eyes with uninterrupted views of one of the most picturesque lakes in Italy. My recommendation is if you have time and are anywhere near Milan take the opportunity to head to Lake Como and relax over a Spritz (local aperitif) and enjoy the views.