Lake Como Is Engaging
If it’s good enough for George Clooney, it’s good enough for me.
Did you ever watch that show, “Life Styles of The Rich and Famous?” Places and spaces so glamorous that they couldn’t possibly be real, or accessible to a regular person like me. At least that’s what I used to think.
Located in the northwest Lombardy region of Italy, just a couple of hours by train from Milan (and a very short bus ride). Lake Como is an upscale lake community, known for dramatic scenery, glamorous villas, and set against the foothills of the Alps.
Scattered along the banks of this stunning lake, are tiny villages which are largely UN-accessible by car, but are connected by a series of water-taxis. It won't take you long before you’ll notice the absence of car noise, and start feeling your entire body start to say, “I could get used to this.”
Travel by bus to Bellagio on Lake Como
Arrival in Bellagio, our home on Lake Como for the next few days.
Heaven on earth, or the home of James Bond villains?
The beauty of this place just doesn’t stop. We stayed in the aptly named “Hotel Bellagio” (try not to think about the hotel in Las Vegas), and spent our days eating gelato and boating around the lake to neighboring towns… you should checkout Varenna if you plan to visit the area. P.S. it is possible to see George Clooney’s house while crossing the lake.
Some things to know:
This isn’t the least expensive place to visit, due to its isolation. You’ll not find chain hotels to use your points at, and if you want to stay near the water, expect to pay a premium. That said, there is a range of prices, and you’ll spend very little time in whatever room you do decide to book, so follow your heart, but try to remember that you’re here for the lake and prioritize location over hotel amenities.
There aren’t cars in the lake communities for a reason. Hills. You will rarely have a flat piece of ground to walk on, so footwear needs to be chosen for practical use. Leave the cute shoes at home ladies, and opt for strappy sandals and ballet flats.
“I villa be back!”
Terrible puns aside, there’s no shortage of amazing homes along the shores, which are open to the public for tours. One of these homes (while we didn’t get a chance to go ourselves), is Villa del Balbianello, which was used as a backdrop in Star Wars episode ll, Attack of The Clones.
However, we spent an afternoon gazing in amazement at the Villa Carlotta, and surrounding gardens and didn’t feel like we missed out on anything.
My life changed forever…
During one of our outings around the lake, my partner of four years, finally popped the big question. I can’t imagine a more perfect place to have experienced that beautiful moment.
The ring is a family heirloom, which I’ll proudly be the third woman in the family to wear.
Cruising on our water taxi back to Bellagio, as a newly engaged couple!
Next stop, Bologna!
Do you have questions or need advise? Comment below!
Italy - Part 2 of 4