Characterized by the particular three-branch shape, which makes it look like an upside-down “Y”, the Lake Como it is a hymn to beauty. It is also called “Lario” and its splendor makes it the ideal destination for those who want to disconnect from the daily routine .
Wonderful nature
The panorama of Lake Como, framed by the mountains , gives an atmosphere of natural serenity starting from its waters. The lake reflections take on shades ranging from cobalt blue to bottle green, following the lush surrounding woods . The nearby Alps , covered with snow during the winter, are also reflected in the waters of Lake Como. Then there is the sweet reflection of the countless villages , which still preserve in the ancient villages , stone houses perched between the lake and the mountains.
Thanks to the variety of its territory , Lake Como can be considered a real oasis where everyone can find their corner of peace. In addition to the geographical fortune, the attentions of the inhabitants also contributed to the beauty of the area, enhancing its natural elements , and avoiding building it excessively.
The climate is ideal due to the mountains that mitigate wind and cold , allowing tourists and vacationers to enjoy an eternal spring . Lake Como, of course, is the right place for those who want to try their hand at any water sport (from sailing to surfing, from diving to water skiing). Furthermore, it is the ideal base for trekking , mountain biking , free climbing and other indoor and outdoor sports.
Culture and tradition
Staying in one of the many localities of the lake, it is possible to make interesting excursions, to discover the local beauties such as, for example, Como , Lecco and the surrounding villages.
Como, in particular, has always been an important strategic place , so much so that it even rivaled Milan. Its historic center excites for the presence of nineteenth- century buildings , fortifications in the Gothic and Romanesque style , and the many medieval churches . Como it turns out to be the center that counts the most significant artistic and historical heritage of the whole lake. This is evident from the wonderful lakefront , where you can admire noble villas, monuments and colorful squares.
Not far from Como, another center that deserves at least a visit is Cernobbio , with its marvelous villas, such as Villa Bernasconi, Villa Erba, and Villa d’Este. Also not to be missed is the medieval center of nearby Argegno , but also the splendid Tremezzo and Menaggio , right in the part where the lake joins the two branches.
On the opposite side, ie the eastern one, Lecco is the second city in order of importance. Unlike Como, there are fewer monuments, but the city compensates with the charm of its lakefront, and the surrounding landscape, which embraces the top of the Grigne.
The ancient village of Varenna is also splendid, where getting lost in the characteristic alleys offers the opportunity to take a journey back in time. The last suggestion is a visit to Bellagio where, from the delightful historic center, you can reach the rich villas , framed by wonderful parks and scenic landscapes .
Food and wine
Lake Como also offers an interesting food and wine proposal for lovers of good food. It is certainly thanks to the variety of the territory that offers food from both the lake and the mountains .
There are many specialties that the restaurateurs of the area include in their menus. These include smoked trout in oil, tremezzina fish soup , “ missul tin ” (agoni left to dry in the sun) with polenta , smoked or dried whitefish , and much more.
Do not miss the risotto with perch fillets, as well as the tasty cheeses ranging from taleggio cheese to cheese, passing through bitto and goats.
Going inland, you can have lunch inside the “ Crotti ” , typical local cellars dug into the rock, which offer cold cuts, cheeses and good wine.
For the sweet tooth we recommend the cotizza , a sort of homemade sweet focaccia with sugar and lemon zest. And finally, the miascia made with stale bread, apples, eggs, macaroons, flour, butter, bitter chocolate, pine nuts and raisins.