You can’t say Lake Como without thoughts of bumping into human rights lawyer Amal Clooney and husband George, who have a village beside Lake Como, entering your head. But Hollywood A-listers aside, Lake Como is revered as one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations. From the Insta-perfect scenery to the restaurants and hotel steeped in luxury, here’s some of the best things to see and do in Lake Como.
What to see in Lake Como
Scattered like confetti on Lake Como’s shores are caught-in-time residences in shades of mustard and carnation pink. Don’t miss Villa del Balbianello, with its terraced gardens and fairytale turrets, or pretty Villa Monastero, both in easy reach of Grand Hotel Tremezzo. As the light dwindles, hop aboard the hydrofoil to Bellagio for a sunset meander through its historic streets.
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Where to stay in Lake Como
Those in search of la dolce vita are sure to find it at Grand Hotel Tremezzo – an unapologetically Italian confection gazing across to twinkly Bellagio. Here, nothing is too much trouble and the lake panoramas are gasp-inducing. The bedrooms have been decked out with gilded headboards, age-speckled mirrors and jewel-toned drapes – go for a rooftop corner suite. Such an exquisite stay commands an all-star arrival – why not hop in a Maserati Ghibli from the airport (€370/£330)? Following a dip in the floating pool, dry off with a white negroni at poolside bar T Beach or suss out the snazziest spots on the lake on the hotel’s glossy Venetian launch.
What to eat in Lake Como
Savour mouthwatering Lombard cuisine and spectacular views at La Fagurida – high in the hills above the lake – while at L’Escale, Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s refined take on a trattoria, rich fondue bourguignonne comes with a wine list as long as your arm. Just across the lake in Bellagio, La Fontana serves Italian classics in one of the most charming spots you’ll come across – the little streetside tables make for terrific people-watching.
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Where to relax in Lake Como
For a dose of serenity, hit Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s fragrant T Spa with ceilings adorned with original frescoes and a spoiling bill of ESPA treatments. Try the Personalised Facial (€140) or, for baby-soft skin, plump for the Revitalising Hammam (€100) – a traditional Turkish cleansing ritual performed in an artfully lit, all-marble chamber.