Lake Como in the north of Italy is fed by the Adda River, which has its source in the Swiss Alps. It is the 3rd largest lake and the deepest in Europe. The once glacier covered area has been molded by nature into one of the most desirable locations in the world, frequented by the rich and famous past and present. More recently, its popularity has been fuelled by its starring role in films such as Ocean's Twelve and Star Wars. All these prominent personages have stayed in some of the best hotels Como has to offer on its shores.
The attraction of Lake Como as one of Europe's best holiday destinations is not just the sheer beauty of the surrounding scenery and its mild climate, but the ambiance of the area and the tranquility it imbues in the visitor. The diversity of the terrain around the lake is reminiscent of several Italian regions from Tuscany to the coastal shores of the Mediterranean. The northern section of the lake differs to the south which is more urbanized and busy than the north which is more rural and surrounded by nature reserves. There are a variety of options for the visitor, for hotels Como has many to choose from so there is bound to be one to fit even the tightest budget, whether they are on their own, a family with children or a group of friends.
Ranging from five to one star hotels Como inhabitants have been at pains to ensure that the architecture is sympathetic to the area and does not look out of place in its surroundings. As many are on the slopes of the mountains the views from the windows, over the lake, are unrivalled. There are many reviews on the hotels Como has available on line, which can be used to help when deciding which one to choose. More reasonably priced hotels will obviously not have rooms that are as spacious and well equipped as those in more expensive establishments. However, with the sights and clement weather of the region visitors tend to spend little time in hotel rooms, preferring to make the most of the outdoors. Italians take pride in the cleanliness and presentation of their businesses and are only too happy to rectify problems that may occur along the way.
Having Lake Como on the doorstep opens the door to the various water sports that are available to the visitor. Boat rental provides an opportunity to view the scenery form a different perspective, as well as the thrill of skimming across the water. Boats with smaller engines are available for hire without a license for those wanting to try it for the first time. For a more sedately paced excursion sail boats are also available for hire in Como.
As ham goes with eggs, boats go with fishing and fishing is available on the lake in the latter part of summer and a fishing license can be purchased locally. For those who do not have sea legs there is the temptation of some of the land based activities. There are well known cooking schools in Como ready to teach anyone wanting to learn, how to make the perfect pasta dish to impress friends and neighbors. Then to burn off the extra calories consider biking on one of the trails around the lake or up into the mountains. For the less energetic there is horseback riding in the Pian di Spagna nature reserve between Como and Mezzola.
As with the rest of Italy, Como has its share of historic buildings and churches. The exteriors are bettered only by the sculptures, paintings and frescos to be found inside. Other attractions that are worth visiting are Villa Carlotta's botanical garden in Tremezzo or the park gardens of Villa Melzi in Bellagio. As for historical figures, the 19th Century novelist Alessandro Manzoni was born in Lecco his home Villa Manzoni can be visited there, or there is Villa Balbianello the home of the Arctic explorer Monzino in Lenno. The castle of the 7th Century Queen of Lombard, Castle of Vezio, can be seen in Varenna and then there is the planetarium in Lecco for budding astronomers.
It is not possible to go to Italy and not do any shopping particularly for the leather goods the country is renowned for. Como provides everything you could ever need and Milan is not too far away if you cannot find what you want locally. All the well known designer brands can be found in Milan. Local wares and crafts can be found in local exhibitions or in street markets.
Euro Currency
0.7599
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1.2016
Mon, Feb 06 - Sunny Intervals
Max : 4°C (39°F)
Min : -4°C (25°F)
Tue, Feb 07 - White Cloud
Max : 4°C (39°F)
Min : -3°C (27°F)
Wed, Feb 08 - Sunny Intervals
Max : 9°C (48°F)
Min : -1°C (30°F)