There is hardly a place in Europe that evokes images of beauty, glamour and serenity more than Lake Como in Italy. Lake Como is not Italy’s largest lake, but there is no denying it is one of the most attractive. Luxury Lake Como villas to rent are always in demand.
The lake (known as Lago di Como in Italian), is shaped like an upside-down Y, and is lined with lush gardens, luxury villas and pretty villages hugging the shore. It sits on the edge of the Alps which makes for a spectacular backdrop. Situated in the north of Italy and close to the Swiss border, Lake Como is just an hour from Milan.
Visiting Lake Como means not only experiencing the beauty of the region, but also savoring the flavors and tastes of the local traditional cuisine. Italy has a strong culinary heritage and you will be able to enjoy all the dishes this country is known for as well as some surprises. Lake Como cuisine uses only the freshest ingredients from the whole food spectrum: lake-caught fish, meat from cattle grazing in the mountains with the wonderful cheeses they produce. Fresh fruit and vegetables are always an important part of any Italian meal. You can experience all styles of eating establishments from a fine dining experience to a family-run osteria. The thing that they all have in common is that the food will be exceptional.
We recommend you try ‘risotto al pesce persico’, a local freshwater fish which is pan fried and served on top of a white risotto. Meat lovers will appreciate: ‘polenta con uccelli scappati’, a puree made with corn flower and skewered veal and pork to resemble little birds. Although typically a Christmas bread-like cake, you can try a traditional Panettone at any time of the year.
If you can tear yourself away from your luxury villa or apartment, you will be spoilt for choice on what to do on Lake Como. There are so many pretty lakeside towns and villages to visit, many of which can be reached by water ferry. The charming regional capital, Como, has a population of 85,000 and is a thriving city. It is a shopper’s paradise and the place to buy silk goods, including scarves and ties, at very attractive prices. But then there are also tiny little hamlets, which have clung on to their traditional roots. Wherever you are, you will be captivated by the lake views and the spectacular architecture of this sophisticated destination.
Lake Como has a proud history and there are certain places not to be missed. The historic centre of Como Town is dominated by the impressive Duomo (cathedral) which dates back to the 15th century and is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The pedestrianized Piazza del Duomo is lined with cafes and restaurants – a perfect spot for people watching. Just a few minutes’ walk from the piazza, Como’s waterfront is lined with parks and is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day whilst watching the bobbing boats on the lake. To see the lake from above, catch the funicular (cable car) up to the quiet village of Brunate. Here you will discover stunning views, a cute faded pink church and lots of walking trails if you feel like stretching your legs.
