Breathtaking Lake Como, Italy

In 2008 we spent our summer holidays in Italy, driving from the Netherlands via a break in Zurich to Lake Como. We stayed on the shore of Lake Como in Lenno, in the 4 star Albergo Lenno, you'll find the web address for this lovely hotel under Our Favourites. The hotel has a beautiful view over the lake and is very close to the enchanting Villa Balbianello and faces Bellagio and its wonderful scenary on the other side of the lake. It is also just 10 minutes away from Villa Carlotta and its beautiful gardens.

View from our room at the Albergo Lenno

A very special spot for the two of us

Lenno is a wonderful place to relax, enjoy a quiet walk or take in the spectacular scenary from one of the many boat tours around the lake. Close by is the beautiful Villa Carlotta. Built for the Milanese Marquis Giorgio Clerici in 1690 it extends over 17 acres in Tremezzo facing the Bellagion peninsula. The Italian garden with steps, fountains and sculptures were laid out at the same time. It is easily accessible from Lenno by car or by the more impressive route, by boat.

Villa Carlotta

To really enjoy the spectacular scenary of Lake Como, hop on board one of the many boats touring the lake, sit back and enjoy. When you get hungry, hop off for a spot of lunch, don't miss the chance to visit Bellagio and wander round its enchanting, winding streets.

One of the real treasures of Lake Como is Villa Balbianello, the villa was built for Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini at the end of the XV111 century and stands at the tip of a steep promontory overlooking the lake, almost opposite Bellagio. Guido Monzino, its last owner was an explorer and nowadays the Villa remains how he left it. 

Villa Balbianello

The Villa houses a magnificent collection of art and handcraft pieces from around the world: China, Africa and pre-Colombine art, precious English and French furniture of the 1700s and a small museum that acts as a lasting memory of Monzino's adventurous expeditions.

Fans of the James Bond movies will recognise the movie from Casino Royale, Bond whilst recovering from torture at the hands of the movies baddie, came here to recuperate. Not only is this Villa incredibly beautiful, the contents of the house are very interesting. This is a special place and if you get a chance to visit, don't miss out. The Villa can be reached on foot from Lenno or by boat from the Lenno Lido, to arrive in style chose the latter option.

Arrival point at Villa Balbianello

Lake Como is simply stunning, the perfect place to relax and unwind. It is also very romantic and will always have a place in our hearts as we got engaged there.

Celebrating our engagement at Lenno Lido

To end our post on Lake Como, here are a couple of images from Como town....

Downtown Como