LAKE COMO

Lake Como, situated at the foothills of the Alps in the Lombardy region of Italy, is a glamorous place to escape the everyday hustle and bustle to enjoy life in a laid back atmosphere. Lake Como is a popular destination known for its iconic villas, lakefront properties, colorful flower gardens, majestic mountains, and amazing postcard views. There are many towns and villages of your choice when planning your visit depending on what part of the Lake you want to spend majority of your time. Most people choose between the following 3 villages - Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio which are located on what is called the Golden Triangle (the "Y" section) of Lake Como and easily accessible by the ferries and boats throughout the day.

Bellagio, often called the Pearl of Lake Como, is the busiest and most famous town in Lake Como, offering an awesome view over the lake towards the Alps.

Varenna is a charming slow paced town perfect for a romantic getaway or a much needed retreat. Visit Castello di Vezio for awesome panoramic views. Visit the botanical gardens of Villa Monastero. Enjoy one of the lakefront cafés. Take a romantic stroll at dusk on the "Passeggiata degli Innamorati" - the Walk of Lovers.

The Walk of Lovers is a pedestrian walkway from the Varenna ferry dock to the Riva Grande lake front continuing to Varnenna's town square Piazza San Giorgio. The most romantic and popular section is the red-railed walkway from the ferry dock to the lake front full of cafés.

Take a slow paced somewhat challenging moderate steep uphill hike to Castello di Vezio for awesome panoramic views. The castle was formerly a medieval military outpost to protect the surrounding villages and territories. The castle is known for its white plastered ghost sculptures dedicated to the legend that ghosts haunts the castle and the legend of Queen Teodolindaplaster whose spirit is still said to roam the castle grounds. There is a permanent exhibition of the prehistoric reptile Lariosaurus, the legendary monster of Lake Como and an exhibition of medieval items.

Villa Monastero was a former Cistercian women's monastery dating back to the end of the 12th century and now converted to a botanical garden, conference center and a house museum owned by the Province of Lecco. The house museum consists of fully furnished rooms with their original decorations and furniture.

Ferry service is offered year round and operated by Navigazione Laghi. The ferry network connects the popular towns of Lake Como with some providing space to transport your automobile. Ppurchase a day pass at any ferry dock for unlimited travel within the Golden Triangle. The purchase of a separate ticket is required to travel farther within Lake Como.

Enjoy Lake Como via private boat service for tours or taxi service for your transportation needs. Both services are offered at a premium price compared to the ferry network.