Villas in Como

Rejuvenating holiday in Como

A visit to Lake Como offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and sophisticated culture. The region is defined by dramatic alpine peaks that meet the water's edge, creating a stunning backdrop for the lakeside boutiques and cobblestone corridors. Located just an hour from Milan, Como provides a wealth of history, from its picturesque villages to the illustrious celestial experiences available in the nearby "Planetary City" of Lecco. The evening atmosphere is equally compelling, offering a refined mix of romantic dining, local music, and exceptional Italian cuisine.

Lovely villas with breathtaking views

Experience the "Dolce Vita" in an authentic villa overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps. These residences are designed to maximize the alpine setting, featuring private balconies perfect for a morning espresso and spacious patios for evening gatherings. After a day of exploring the lake, these villas provide a luxurious retreat where you can enjoy local wines under the stars, ensuring a peaceful and high-end holiday experience.

Como for art and culture enthusiasts

Lake Como is a repository of medieval and neoclassical art. Villa Carlotta, situated in the Larian Triangle, features a 17th-century botanical garden filled with ancient trees and exotic palms. Its museum houses a significant collection of sculptures and furniture, including masterpieces by Antonio Canova and Francesco Hayez. In Lecco, the 19th-century Palazzo delle Paure—formerly a customs house—now serves as a gallery for contemporary art, photography, and graphic illustrations by both local and international artists.

Como for savvy travellers

Beyond its visual appeal, the city of Como offers deep historical insights. The iconic Cathedral marks the city center, while the Historical Museum of Giuseppe Garibaldi explores the region's past through traditional lace exhibits and anecdotes from the Risorgimento. For an archaeological perspective, the local Archaeological Museum displays artifacts ranging from prehistory to the Middle Ages. For those interested in local flavors, culinary workshops with Italian chefs offer the opportunity to master traditional regional recipes.

Como for movie buffs

The dramatic landscapes of Lake Como have long served as a premier filming location for major cinema, including James Bond's Casino Royale and Star Wars: Attack of the Clones. Famous villas, such as the 18th-century Villa del Balbianello, are recognizable to film enthusiasts worldwide. Many visitors enjoy hiking the woodland trails to these historic estates to identify iconic scenes and explore the luxury residences that have attracted celebrities for centuries.

1. Take a scenic boat tour
2. Visit the Balcony of the Alps
3. Adventure sports and canyoning
4. Explore the medieval small towns
5. Visit the historic village of Bellagio
6. Hiking the Larian trails
7. Mountain dining and local brews

1. Take a scenic boat tour

The best way to experience the scale of Lake Como is from the water. Guided tours provide historical accounts of the landmark villas dotting the shoreline. Whether you choose a sunrise or sunset departure, it is highly recommended to book in advance due to high demand.

2. Visit the Balcony of the Alps

Brunate, known as the "Balcony of the Alps," offers a unique vantage point over the lake. The 19th-century funicular is the quickest route to the village, where you can visit the Faro Voltiano lighthouse or hike up Mount Boletto before dining on one of the many panoramic terraces.

3. Adventure sports and canyoning

For those seeking high-energy activities, the region offers rock climbing at Grimsel and Furkapass, featuring limestone and granite surfaces for all skill levels. Additionally, canyoning excursions in Porlezza and Lenno provide a technical way to explore the area's waterfalls and gorges.

4. Explore the medieval small towns

Menaggio is celebrated for its elegant lakeside promenade and alpine views, offering a classic Italian atmosphere. Nearby, Varenna features preserved medieval streets, the botanical gardens of Villa Monastero, and the historic Castello di Vezio with its impressive drawbridge and battlements.

5. Visit the historic village of Bellagio

Known as the "Pearl of Como," Bellagio is home to high-end boutiques and the neoclassical Villa Melzi. The villa's 1808 gardens and Orangery Museum display a unique connection to Napoleonic history, while the 11th-century Basilica di San Giacomo remains a centerpiece of Romanesque architecture.

6. Hiking the Larian trails

The Greenway del Lago di Como offers a moderate route through several historic villages. More adventurous hikers can take the Torno-Montepiatto excursion, which includes views of the Celtic cemetery of Massi Avelli and the unique Pietra Pendula rock formation.

7. Mountain dining and local brews

For a traditional culinary experience, visit Rifugio Azzoni atop Resegone mountain for local pizzoccheri and polenta. For beer enthusiasts, guided tours often include visits to the Birrificio Herba Monstrum Brewery, combining a mountain hike with a tasting of artisanal vintage brews.