Bellagio

This resort, known as the "Pearl of the Lake", captivates visitors not only with its mild, Mediterranean climate but also with its stunning location. Bellagio stands at the intersection of the three branches of this "y" shaped lake (the Lario triangle), at the tip of the peninsula separating the lake`s two southern arms. Throughout the ages, Bellagio has been a desirable location – more than 2000 years ago the small town, which is 229 m above sea level, was founded by the Romans. More recently, due to the extraordinary beauty of the area, many stately and palatial villas were built here.

It is certainly worth visiting the fine water front with its palaces, villas, cosy cafes and, of course, the boats` landing stage. Here, once again, beautiful buildings abound - for example, the parish church of St Jacob (Basilica San Giacomo) which is of Roman origin.

Those who love gardens will find it impossible not to visit to the Villa Serbelloni (15th to 17th century) and the early 19th century Villa Melzi. Their beautiful parklands, with statuesque cypress trees and much-vaunted azaleas, roses, camellias and rhododendrons, can be counted as two of the most beautiful gardens in Italy.

Take a tour through the picturesque little town and discover the old fishing village with its colourfully painted houses and steep, narrow alleyways. Stroll past the typical Lombardy Trattorias, restaurants, pizzerias and pretty boutiques and small shops all inviting you to linger and stay awhile.

Wherever you walk, you will find that you are never far from the walls of the old town. Although an intrinsic part of Bellagio’s charm, they are also a reminder that this was a fortified settlement during the Middle Ages.

The highlight of a visit to Bellagio is the view from the most northerly point of the peninsula, the so-called ‘Punta di Spartivento’ (the place on which the wind separates). At this point, one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Lake Como, from Tremezzo to the opposite western cost of the lake, is before you - all framed by the glorious mountain scenery.

Within the vicinity of Bellagio, the following destinations are well worth a visit: Basilica San Giacomo, Basilica San Giorgio, Parco Villa Serbelloni, Villa Melzi, Punta de Spartivento, Grotta Assurra, and Monte San Primo with its wonderful panoramic vista and superb hiking and walking trails.

Lake Como's central region

Your holiday location is a gateway for all travellers wishing to explore the lake and the magnificent surrounding countryside - be it by car, boat, hydrofoil or train. You can take a trip by boat (either with or without car) from the early morning to late in the evening and visit the romantic towns of Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna (the Golden Triangle) as well as Cadenabbia.
From Varenna one can travel to Milan/Bergamo or Chiavenna/Bergell by train; alternatively, drive along the toll-free fast road, which is mostly tunnelled, on the eastern side of the lake. On the west of the lake there is a bus route or a boat connection.

In and around Lake Como

Lake Como has so much to offer throughout the whole year. Enjoy a concert or a vernissage, or delight in one of the many charming traditional festivals which often take place in the pretty towns and villages.

It truly is a lake for all seasons.

From a cultural perspective, there is much to see: apart from the many churches and historical buildings around the lake, there are famous villas and buildings (all open to the public), many of which have picturesque Italianate gardens.

"Fashionistas" will appreciate the close proximity of the fashion capital, Milan and also the city of Como, which is the centre of the Italian silk trade. Their influence can be seen the length and breadth of the lake and there are many opportunities to buy stylish Italian clothes inexpensively.

Typically, there are many local weekly markets selling their produce from the neighbouring regions including, amongst other things, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as cheese and fish.

The season for bathing in the lake begins at the end of May/beginning of June and normally finishes between the middle to the end of September. During the bathing season, the water temperature in the lake ranges between 20 - 24 grad (maximum August temperature). Of course, lovers of surfing and boating are not restricted to these seasons - they can use the lake throughout the whole year. The pools belonging to holiday properties enjoy a slightly longer season as a rule, ranging from the middle of March to the end of October.