Lake Como offer visitors some of the most beautiful scenery in Italy; soaring snow-capped peaks in the north give way to gentle
rolling hills and colourful sub-tropical lakeside gardens and promenades
to the south. Imagine the bright blue waters lapping at the elegant
shores, surrounded by fine walks, imposing villas and beautiful parks
and gardens filled with exotic flowers - giving this area a real
Mediterranean flavour - and you’ve got the picture.
All around the lake there are sheltered bays, charming lakeside resorts and peaceful fishing villages. There are weekly markets to visit, shops and boutiques to browse around, colourful gardens to explore and pavement cafes to relax in as you watch the world go by. We stay in the delightful lakeside resort of Tremezzo, which is perfectly placed on the western shore of the lake and is ideal for enjoying everything the lake offers. Tremezzo has a particularly mild climate and a well-to-do atmosphere, thanks to the beautiful villas that nestle on its shores. The village is surrounded by olive and orange groves and has an impressive mountain backdrop.
It’s easy to get around from Tremezzo, ferries criss-cross the lake from one delightful harbour to the next, while steamers and local buses can take you to some of the lakeside towns and villages further along the lake. The nearby Villa Carlotta is well worth visiting. Built in the early 18th century, the Villa is renowned for its beautiful gardens, which extend over 14 acres. Inside the villa are some superb sculptures and works of art by Antonio Canova.
A boat trip to Bellagio, sometimes called the ‘pearl of the lake’, is a definite “must do”. The old town is a jumble of cobbled lanes and stepped streets lined with stylish boutiques, wine bars and craft shops selling locally produced handicrafts including olive wood carvings and woven silk. Little known Varenna, just across the lake from Bellagio, is practically as unspoilt as its neighbour and is an ideal village for wandering around. There are meandering lakeside paths and the walk up to the 13th century Monastery Villa will reward you with some fine views over the eastern arm of Lake Como.
You are also in easy reach of fast-paced, fashionable Milan and the glorious Swiss Alps - best seen from the scenic carriages of the Bernina Express. However you choose to spend your time and however much you see, you will find that you will want to return to beautiful Lake Como, again and again!
Dates and PricesIncluded in price
- 7 nights accommodation in a standard double or twin bedroom with private bathroom
- 14 meals
- 7 buffet breakfasts
- 7 four course evening dinners
- Free bar every day from 5.00pm to 11.45pm
- Music most evenings
- Return flight to Milan from your chosen airport
- One hold suitcase and one piece of hand luggage per person
- Return transfers between the airport and hotel
- ATOL Protected