Discover Lake Como

Villa Balbianello

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 19:51:57 +0000

This villa is probably the most famous and one of the most amazing villas to see on the lake. This villa which was built in the 1500′s, is situated in Lenno on the westside of he lake. The spectacular terraced gardens with magnolias, azaleas, cypresses and so much more, give you an excellent panoramic view of the lake and monuntains.

The villa was originally constructed by Cardinal Angelo Durini where a small Franciscan monastery had originally stood, following the death of Cardinal Durini the complex was sold to Giuseppe Arconati Visconti who enriched the garden and the loggia. After the first World War the American general Butler Amos renovated the whole complex. The villa later became the home of the famous Arctic explorer Guido Monzino, who, in 1988, left the Villa to the FAI, the Italian National Trust.

The villa featured in the James Bond film “Casino Royale” and also “Star Wards II: Attack of the Clones”.

You have to take an organised tour from Como to see inside the villa.

Menaggio Carnival 2010

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:45 +0000

The traditional ‘carnivale’ celebrated February/March each year. Lots of fun, confetti and a great party atmosphere.

Villa Balbianello

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:45 +0000

The magnificent Villa Balbianello as featured in the James Bond film “Casino Royale” and also “Star Wards II: Attack of the Clones”.

You have to take an organised tour to see inside the villa.

Villa Carlotta

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:45 +0000

Some stunning footage of Villa Carlotta, Tremezzo.

Villa Carlotta

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:45 +0000

Villa Carlotta is situated in the village of Tremezzo and covers an area of over 70,000 square metres. There are numerous masterpieces of art inside the villa itself as well as a splendid garden with many beautiful flowers and trees which you can walk around in at your leisure.

The villa was built from 1690-1743 by the Clerici, a wealthy Milanese family of merchants. In 1801 Gian Battista Sommariva (a famous politician, businessman and patron of arts) bought the villa. The villa has a collection of art works such as; Canova, Thorvaldsen and Hayez: Palamedes, Eros and Psyche, Terpsychore and The last kiss of Romeo and Juliet.

Under Sommariva part of the park was transformed in a fascinating romantic garden. Sommariva’s heirs sold the The villa was sold in by the heir’s of Sommariva 1843 to Princess Marianne of Nassau (Albert’s of Prussia wife) who gave it as a present to her daughter Carlotta as a wedding present on her marriage to Georg II of Saxen-Meiningen. Hence the name Villa Carlotta.

The gardens of Villa Carlotta are known for the rhododendrons’ and azaleas’ spring flowering, with over 150 varieties. There is also a lovely ‘bamboo garden’ (which the children will love) among many other things to see; cacti, camellias, cedars…also the ‘museum of agricultural tools’. Not to mention the exceptional views across the lake from the balconies of the villa itself.

Locanda dell’Isola Comacina

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:42 +0000

This amazing restaurant is situated on the little island of Isola Comacina and is only accessible by small boats as it lays nestled close to the shoreline of the lake.

Frequented by many celebrities over the years; Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Victoria Beckham, Barbara Streisand to name but few.

The menu is fixed and has never changed since 1947 (albeit fruit and veg changes according to the season). This is one experience that you should not miss whilst visiting Lake Como.

Booking in advance is mandatory.

Le Colonne

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:42 +0000

This is the restaurant of the hotel of the same name and is situated in a lovely old piazza off the main strees. Le Colonne is very inviting in the winter as it has a real fire burning creating a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. In the summer months you can sit in the large air conditioned conservatory or outside in the Piazza.

The menu is classic regional dishes that are seasonal and very well prepared. Al forno (roasted dishes) and also the pizza are particularly tasty.

Prices are reasonable and is popular with both local people and tourists. A relaxing atmosphere and a nice place for families with children or for a romantic meal.

Al Veluu

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:41 +0000

Nestled on a hilltop above the town of Tremezzo, this restaurant has some magnificent views of the lake and mountains, whether you are dining ‘al fresco’ on the large terrace in the warmer weather, or inside by the warmth of the open fire during the colder months.

This family run restaurant offers a warm welcome to everyone and is known for some of the best dishes on the lake, which are often prepared at your table using fresh ingredients from their very own organic kitchen garden.

Booking in advance is advisable.

Can be expensive

Red and White

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:41 +0000

This restaurant sits by the lakeside in Tremezzo and is well known for the quality of its’ simple, hearty food using fresh local ingredients. A welcoming atmosphere awaits you whether it is for a nice relaxing coffee or dinner.

It is possible to buy pizza and wine to take-away.

Usually closed in January.

Il Gatto Nero

admin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:01:41 +0000

This is one of the most exclusive restaurants on Lake Como and is also a popular dining place with celebrities. Situated high up in Cernobbio, there is an amazing view from out on the balcony. Its appeal lies in the welcoming and intimate dining ambience and is not intimidating in the least. Delicious word-class Italian cuisine is served and presented on the plate like an art form.

It is highly recommended to book in advance.