Have you ever felt connected to a place far away, an attraction beyond reason, as if a long time ago you have actually belonged there and you can`t wait to get back? For me, this place has always been Lake Como.
When you say Lake Como you say breathtaking mountain views, clear blue waters and serenity. Quiet mornings, long lazy afternoons and starry nights. Great food, good wine, divine ice cream (really, I know the exact place!). And, of course, Bellagio.
The pearl of Lake Como, already famous in the Roman Times, Bellagio still charms the visitors with its old buildings, famous hotels and cobbled stairways that take you up to the well preserved old city. Cars pass through the unbelievably narrow streets leaving you little or no place at all to pass by. But hey, it’s Italy and you have to trust their ability to drive on those impossible roads. Well, you really don t have a choice but to do so.
How to get to Bellagio
Best way to arrive is, of course, by boat. Most tourists get by train to Varenna and then take one of the many ferries or boats that link the two towns dozens of times a day.
Leaving Bellagio might be a bit problematic if you fly from Bergamo airport early in the morning, as no boat or bus leaves before 8 am. If it’s already too late to plan your trip better (as it happened to me), you can always book a taxi that will take you there in about one hour for a very reasonable price (around 140 euro). This will also give you the opportunity to experience the narrow mountain roads by the shore of the lake. Also very italian.
What to do
Admire the perfectly preserved buildings that made it famous, learn that there are brands of cars you didn t know existed, breath in the fresh air, take a long boat trip, walk a lot, sit and enjoy your meals, take a lot of pictures. Really, there isn t enough time to do all that you want to do. Unless you move there. I’m still thinking about that.
Take a boat to Piona
I absolutely recommend going up north the lake by boat to Piona. The old secluded abbey is really a beautiful place to see. Be careful not to miss the boat. There are only three a day and they might sometimes arrive late, but they always leave on time. This is also available with the trains, so be prepared to lose some. But don t worry, you re on vacation and Italy is a great place to get lost in.
Go for a swim in Varenna
This year it happened that the water was extremely cold due to the heavy raining. But we found the perfect spot in Varenna, which, by the way, is not to be missed!
Less intimidating and absolutely charming, Varenna is the perfect place to spend an entire afternoon. Don`t miss the excellent restaurants near the lake.
Oh, the discovery of Peroni Rossa made the day even more so!
While in Varenna, don`t miss the Castello di Vezio and the gardens of Villa Monastero.
Where to stay
At Grand Hotel Serbelloni, of course! Well, maybe next time. We stayed up on the hill in a a small village called Vergonese. Casa Carolina is clean, cheap and has the best view over the bay.
What more can one wish for?
AliTravelling 