The wonders of Lake Como: A Guide to Italy's breathtaking destination

Lake Como, nestled amidst Italy's majestic mountain ranges, offers the opportunity to cruise along its deep waters, revealing stunning vistas and hidden treasures. From renowned tourist attractions to lesser-known villages, one can explore the charming streets of Como city, as well as stumble upon picturesque hamlets boasting breathtaking views. The lake itself is a mesmerizing spectacle, resembling a fjord rather than a traditional body of water, stretching across 29 miles. Its shores are adorned with opulent villas, whimsical gardens, and a bustling aquatic scene of ferries and speedboats. Lake Como's allure goes beyond its visual appeal, as its setting is truly extraordinary. With its inverted "Y" shape, it is flanked by steep, thickly wooded mountainsides, creating a dramatic backdrop. To the north, the snow-dusted Alps provide a majestic panorama throughout much of the year. At the same time, along the lakeshore, palm trees gracefully coexist with ornate villas, some of which have origins dating back to the 16th century. Lake Como stands as an enchanting destination, captivating visitors with its natural beauty and historical charm.

In the 21st century, the name of Lake Como has gained significant prominence, instantly evoking notions of glamour and opulence. This newfound reputation can be attributed, in part, to its close proximity to Milan, located less than an hour away, and the patronage it receives from the fashion elite. However, a significant portion of the buzz surrounding Lake Como is owed to George Clooney, who acquired a lakeside villa nearly two decades ago. His presence, along with that of his high-profile circle of friends including Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, and Matt Damon, added an extra layer of allure and mystique to the lake. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that the history of Como predates the recent association with a celebrity-packed LA entourage.

Centuries ago, Celtic tribes inhabited the shores of Lake Como until they were displaced by the Romans. Julius Caesar himself commanded the draining of the swamp at the lake's end and the establishment of the first Roman city in the region, which came to be known as the city of Como. Subsequently, during the 16th century, affluent Lombards from nearby Milan recognized the potential of the area. They discovered that the lake's native mulberry trees provided an ideal habitat for imported Chinese silkworms. This led to the prosperous development of a silk empire, which continues to thrive to this day. Esteemed fashion brands such as Versace, Hermes, and Ralph Lauren, among many others, still source their silk from Lake Como, further perpetuating its rich heritage in the industry.

The affluent merchants from Milan, recognizing the allure of Lake Como, constructed magnificent villas along its shores. As was customary during that era, these wealthy individuals also embraced their role as patrons of the arts. When visiting Como, it is impossible to escape the cultural references that abound. Stories circulate about Leonardo da Vinci's creative endeavours in the area, with mentions of his paintings being worked on in this very place. Likewise, tales are shared about renowned composer Verdi, who found inspiration for a portion of his opera La Traviata amidst the enchanting surroundings of Lake Como. It is said that Bellini, too, dedicated time to perfecting his opera Norma in this very region. The lake's unique virtues have not escaped the attention of literary figures either, as diverse writers such as Wordsworth, Longfellow, and Hesse have penned poetic verses extolling its captivating beauty and inherent charm. Lake Como has undeniably left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, serving as a muse and source of inspiration for artists and writers throughout history.

Irrespective of the season, a perfect day on Lake Como entails immersing oneself in its azure waters, admiring the magnificent villas, exploring accessible ones, indulging in a leisurely lunch, and taking refreshing swims. If one's budget permits, embarking on a boat excursion in a sleek wooden Riva speedboat is highly recommended. One can rendezvous with friends in Lenno or the slightly more touristy Varenna when heading up the lake. In Varenna, a charming array of ochre-coloured buildings serves as the backdrop for café culture and leisurely sips of prosecco. For those without access to a private boat, the ferry system proves to be a convenient alternative. It crisscrosses the lake, providing access to the bustling waterfront and the narrow, shop-filled lanes of Bellagio. Additionally, it allows for the exploration of tranquil fishing villages like Pescallo and grants access to Tremezzo, where one can discover the exquisite gardens and artwork housed within Villa Carlotta. This remarkable villa, admired by esteemed writers Edith Wharton and Henry James in the 19th century, stands as one of the lake's true masterpieces.