Lake Como

The Huffington Post has defined lake Como as the most beautiful lake in the world.
It is not by chance that its praises have been sung by writers and poets: Manzoni, Byron and Stendhal are among  those who have portrayed the charm of this area in words. Como’s elegant villas have attracted political leaders of the calibre of Winston Churchill and John Fitzgerald Kennedy, as well as  film directors and actors like Alfred Hitchcock and George Clooney.

On the western shore stands Villa Carlotta, a treasure-trove dating from 1600 that contains masterly works of art and is surrounded by a magnificent botanical garden, famous for its azalea, camellias and its rhododendron wood. The gardens of the villa are a great vantage-point for an exquisite view over to the promontory of Bellagio.

Bellagio is known as the "Pearl of the Lake". The old town is a labyrinth of streets and cobbled steps that wind their way past the traditional houses of the village.
An evocative ferry-ride across the lake from Bellagio, leads to Villa Balbianello, a jewel of a house dating from the 18th century where  the  building is made so unique by its being clad in green climbing plants.

The mild climate of Lake Como makes this the perfect environment for open-air sports. Water sports enthusiasts can choose from sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, water-skiing or kite-surfing. Mountain-lovers can challenge themselves in rock climbs or follow easier, more leisurely hikes along paths that offer breath-taking views of the lake. There is also the chance to enjoy mountain-biking or horse-riding.