In the shadow of the snow-covered Rhaetian Alps and hemmed in on both sides by steep, verdant hillsides, Lake Como is the most famous of the major lakes. Shaped like an upside-down Y, measuring around 160km in squiggly shoreline, it is littered with villages, including exquisite Bellagio and Blevio.
Where the southern and western shores converge is the lake’s main town, Como. Lecco, the other large town on the lake, sits where the southern shore meets the less-explored eastern shore. Among the area’s siren calls are some extraordinarily sumptuous villas, often graced with paradisiacal gardens.
Lake Como has been a popular retreat for aristocrats and wealthy people since Roman times, and a very popular tourist attraction full of artistic and cultural gems. It has many villas and palaces such as Villa Olmo, Villa Serbelloni and Villa Carlotta.
Touring the lakes can be as active as you want to make it. Cycling is an excellent way to get around the lakes, although some roads can be more busy than one would like. In summer, fans of water sports can take up a position on various key points of the lakes to enjoy sailing or windsurfing. It is also perfect for just a swim and sunbathing.
Lake Como is much-loved by the rich and famous with a host of celebrities owning properties on its shores.
See
Villas and palaces such as Villa Olmo, Villa Serbelloni and Villa Carlotta
Experience
A boat excursion to enjoy views of the picturesque villages
