Welcome to the soothing shores of Lake Como, where the views are so divine you will never want to leave.
“Water is the driving force of all nature.” Well said, Leonardo da Vinci. Water also provides a tranquilising effect at Lake Como with a glazed reflection of distant hills and snow-peaked mountains, ringed with quiet towns, and old-fashion elegance. The perfect mix of scenery, food, escape and culture. This was something I needed after a hectic Spring season in London.
Bellagio Italy – Things to Do
We added Bellagio in Lake Como to our weekend trip to Milan, so we didn’t stay at Lake Como, but instead decided to venture out for a day trip instead.
There is an unknown shortcut by train to arrive at Lake Como from Milan. We took the 1 hour train journey from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino (make sure to have your ticket validated before you board). From Varenna, you can take the ferry to Bellagio, also known as the “Pearl of the Lake”, one of the most visited island here in the region.
With its fantastic location at the foothills of the Alps, the breathtaking views of Lake Como has seduced the famous and the wealthy to this location, George Clooney is known to make appearance here from time to time at the delight of locals and tourists.
As I walked along the edge of Bellagio, the candy coloured houses with its lush greenery, carefully-carved marble sculptures, and blooming gardens, I felt as if I was transported back to another century, a time when things were simpler, before the hectic pace of modern life took over.
It was still too cold to jump in the water. We saw a quiet swimming pool perched on the lake like a large piece of Murano glass art piece, swaying back and forth in the wind. We turned back to eat with locals at Ristorante La Punta, built on the edge of the lush hillside with fantastic views into the lake. Food at Bellagio in Lake Como is simple but hearty and tasty, bruchetta, grilled trout, veal cutlet, and served with top quality local wine.
The temperature rose significantly as the sun peeked out from behind the clouds in the afternoon. I was tempted by the traditional gelato shop, Gelateria Ceccato, with a creamy chocolate chip and coconut cone and headed off for the promenade to taste it all in the the view.
On the boat back to Varenna, I reflected on my magical encounters in Lake Como and have definitely enjoyed my mini-holiday here in the beautiful side of Italy. This is at the top of my list of escapes that are both beautiful and extremely relaxing to visit again and again.
I will be back, Lake Como. Till next time, perhaps in hotter weather!
Looks like a beautiful place to eat gelato, that’s for sure x
Lake Como has to be one of my favourite parts of the world!