A magnificence to admire and experience

In the Tremezzina area, on a bay of the Como branch of the lake, lies Isola Comacina, the northernmost territory in Italy where, thanks to a particularly mild climate, olives are cultivated. The intricate history of this small island has led it to be owned by the Accademia di Brera in Milan today.

A visit to the Baroque church of San Giovanni, the patron saint of the island, is a must. Each year, on June 24, a solemn boat procession takes place on the lake, accompanied by a fireworks display over the water. The remains of the 11th-century Basilica of Sant’Eufemia, with its crypt, are also of great historical and artistic interest, as are the remnants of other churches, including Santa Maria del Portico, San Pietro in Castello, and Santi Faustino e Giovita.

The stunning town of Tremezzina, overlooking Lake Como, is a scattered municipality formed by the merger of Lenno, Mezzegra, Tremezzo, and Ossuccio. In this extensive area, visitors can admire numerous notable religious structures; for example, the Sacro Monte of Ossuccio is part of the group of nine pre-Alpine Sacred Mountains, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The church—Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Relief—was built on rugged terrain where an earlier place of worship once stood. The 14 Baroque-style chapels are adorned with 230 terracotta statues crafted by various artists.

A special mention goes to Villa Carlotta, located in Tremezzo, which houses works by Antonio Canova and Luigi Acquisti. Other noteworthy villas include Villa Pessina, Villa Sola Busca, Villa Aureggi, Villa Monastero, and Villa del Balbiano.

Villa Carlotta also features a spectacular Italian-style garden, dating back to the villa's construction period. Perfectly aligned along an axis from the gate to the clock on the building’s roof, it boasts topiary hedges in various shapes, fountains, water features, statues, flower beds with geometric elements, terraces, and balustrades.

A splendid climbing rose garden, camellias, and a citrus tunnel lend various strokes of color to this garden, welcoming visitors all year round. Additionally, tropical plants, hydrangeas, azaleas, tree-like rhododendrons, aromatic plants, ferns, and monumental trees adorn and enrich this little green paradise.

Bellagio, a jewel of Lake Como, enchants visitors with its unique charm. This picturesque village, known as the "pearl of Lario," stands majestically on the tip of the promontory that divides the lake into two branches. Its cobbled streets, steeped in history, wind through elegant boutiques, cozy cafés, and ancient villas. The gardens of Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni offer breathtaking views over the lake’s crystal-clear waters. The romantic atmosphere of Bellagio, combined with the backdrop of the surrounding mountains, creates an experience that captivates the imagination. Here, nature, art, and tradition blend harmoniously, gifting visitors unforgettable memories of a truly extraordinary place.

The Gardens of Villa Melzi, a botanical gem on the shores of Lake Como, offer a unique experience that captivates visitors' imaginations. Created in the early 19th century, these gardens enchant with their extraordinary variety of rare and exotic plants. Walking along the tree-lined paths, visitors encounter charming spots and neoclassical sculptures that enhance the landscape's beauty. The flower-filled terraces provide breathtaking views of the lake, offering scenes that change with the passing seasons. The neo-Gothic chapel and historical museum enrich the journey with cultural and artistic insights of great interest. Every detail has been carefully curated, creating a harmony that stimulates the senses and nourishes the spirit, leaving indelible memories for those fortunate enough to visit.

Menaggio, a charming village on the western shore of Lake Como, captivates visitors with its authentic character. The elegant lakeside promenade offers a scenic walk with breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains. The historic center, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, reflects centuries of local history and culture. Piazza Garibaldi, the heart of town life, welcomes residents and tourists in a lively and friendly atmosphere. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the trails that wind through the nearby woods, while Menaggio's Lido invites relaxation by the lake. Thanks to its strategic location, this village is an ideal starting point for exploring the beauty of the Lake Como area, providing an experience that harmoniously blends tradition with modernity.

Nesso, a picturesque village nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Como, captivates visitors with its authentic charm. Colorful houses climb the steep hillside, creating a striking natural amphitheater that reflects in the lake’s crystal-clear waters. The village's heart is dominated by an impressive waterfall cascading between the houses, offering a unique and captivating spectacle. Narrow cobbled lanes invite visitors to enjoy leisurely walks, uncovering breathtaking panoramic views and historic buildings rich in history. The Romanesque church of Saints Peter and Paul, with its bell tower rising above the village, attests to Nesso’s rich cultural heritage.

Varenna, a small town on the eastern shore of Lake Como, enchants visitors with its understated charm and unpretentious beauty. A maze of narrow alleyways, locally known as "contrade," invites exploration, revealing unexpected views and picturesque corners. The highlight of Varenna is the renowned "Lover’s Walk," a scenic path that winds along the water's edge, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. The gardens of Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi, true botanical treasures, enrich the cultural appeal of the town with their rare plant varieties and historic architecture. Varenna, with its intimate and authentic atmosphere, provides a peaceful alternative to mass tourism, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the true essence of Lake Como.

Situated on the tip of the Lavedo peninsula, this 18th-century mansion stands majestically, surrounded by meticulously tended terraced gardens. The building, with its elegant loggias and panoramic terraces, offers breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. The gardens, a masterpiece of topiary art, feature a variety of exotic plants and sculptures that blend harmoniously with the landscape. Inside, the villa houses a valuable collection of period furniture, antique maps and exploration memorabilia, bearing witness to the history of its illustrious owners, in particular the last one, explorer Guido Monzino. Visiting Villa del Balbianello offers an immersion into an ambiance of elegance and culture, where the artistry of human design harmonizes beautifully with the natural splendor of Lake Como.