Best Things to Do in Lake Como

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Lake Como, also called Lago di Como or Lario, is found in Lombardy, northern Italy. It is a glacial lake shaped like the letter “Y” due to the movement of glaciers and the Adda River. With an area of 146 square kilometres, it is the third-largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore. It is also very deep, going down over 400 metres, making it one of the deepest lakes in Europe. Its bottom lies 227 metres below sea level.

History

The area around Lake Como has a long history. People began living here in the Iron Age with a town called Comum. In 196 B.C., the Romans took control of the area. Julius Caesar later helped build a new town on the lake’s edge in 59 B.C., called Novum Comun. During Roman times, the lake was known for its good fishing and hunting. A Roman military fleet was even based here in the 4th century.

During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the lake was the site of many battles. In the 1100s, the people of Como fought with Milan on the lake. Later, between 1525 and 1532, the Musso war took place here.

Villas and Gardens

Lake Como is famous for its grand villas and well-kept gardens. Many were built by wealthy families over the centuries. These gardens grow well thanks to the lake’s mild climate.

Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo has a large garden with fountains and sculptures. It also has a museum and artworks by famous artists like Canova. It was named after Princess Carlotta, who once lived there.

Villa d’Este in Cernobbio was built in the 1500s and later became a hotel. It has English-style gardens and was once the home of Caroline of Brunswick.

Villa del Balbianello, built in 1787, is now a museum that holds artefacts from explorer Guido Monzino. It has also been used in movies like Star Wars and James Bond.

Villa Melzi d’Eril in Bellagio has a peaceful park with a chapel, statues, and a Japanese garden. It was the summer home of Duke Francesco Melzi.

Villa Serbelloni, also in Bellagio, is now home to the Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center, an international conference and study centre. Some believe it may be built near or on the site of the ancient Roman villa “Tragedia,” once owned by Pliny the Younger.

Villa Monastero in Varenna was once a monastery. It has a unique Nordic design and is another popular villa to visit.

Nature and Wildlife

The area is home to many plants and animals. Thanks to the lake’s stable temperature, plants like rhododendrons, citrus trees, and palms grow here. Hikers in the mountains around the lake may spot deer, foxes, and birds.

Outdoor Activities

Lake Como is great for many outdoor sports. People enjoy sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The hills and mountains around the lake have many trails for hiking and cycling. These paths often lead to small villages and traditional restaurants.

Swimming in Lake Como is allowed only in certain places. It can be dangerous because the lake quickly becomes deep near the shore, and the water is cold. It’s best to swim in public beaches or lidos with safety measures.

Boat Trips and Transport

Lake Como has a strong boat network. Boats have been used here since 1826. Today, the transport system includes:

• Motorship Services: These boats stop at many towns around the lake.
  
• Fast Services: These hydrofoils stop at fewer towns but are quicker.
  
• Car Ferries: Ferries carry both people and cars between towns like Menaggio, Bellagio, and Varenna.
  

Taking a boat is one of the best ways to enjoy the lake. Both public and private boat tours are available. Many visitors enjoy sitting back and seeing the lake and villas from the water.

Cultural Sites

• Sacro Monte di Ossuccio is a religious site with 15 small chapels built between 1635 and 1710. These chapels tell the story of the Rosary and lead to a monastery at the top. In 2003, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List for its cultural value.
  

Lake Como’s peaceful views, historical depth, and variety of activities make it a place many people return to year after year.

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