What is it - Not far from the world fashion capital of Milan in the Lombardy province of Italy lies beautiful Lake Como. This wishbone shaped lake has deep clear waters and is surrounded by steep mountains on both sides. In the distance to the Northeast you can see the often-snow-covered peaks of the Alps. The lake was formed during the last ice age about 10,000 years ago when glaciers gouged out valleys and the ice melted. Throughout the centuries, the Roman nobility and leaders of the papal states have enjoyed the spectacular views from villas along the shore.

There are several dozen small towns along the banks of the lake nestled below the mountains. The three main towns are Como located in the southwest finger of the lake, Lucco in the southeast corner, and Bellagio in the middle. Bellagio is an excellent location to stay and enjoy several days on the lake. Since the narrow roadways which curve around the lake provide a long and slow path, most people settle in and use the frequent ferries which travel to most destinations as a mode of transportation.

For a special experience, a tour of the lake on one of the classic wooden inboard motorboats is highly recommended. These sleek crafts glide over the smooth waters effortlessly and generally seat 10 passengers. A shared tour which provides time to take in the views and enjoy the experience is provided by Bellagio Water Limousines from the center of town. Their Villa Balbianello shared tour lasts about two and a half hours. In addition to passing by several waterfront villages and grand villas, this tour includes a stop at the Villa del Balbianello, a frequently photographed 19th century house with terraces and period furnishings. Once owned by a renowned Italian explorer, it is now open to the public. The house and its inspiring views have been used in many movies including Star Wars.  Other tours stop at famous sites such as the Villa Carlotta or the port of Varenna which lies beneath the ruins of a medieval castle.

Once back in Bellagio, there is plenty to do. The waterfront is full of cafes, gardens, parks, and a community pool from which you can see parts of the lake and the nearby mountains. Bellagio also has a large shopping district with fashionable wears and tourist souvenirs. What is interesting about the area is that the shops line a series of shaded alleys which run from the base of the mountain up the hillside and back.

Interesting Facts - Many celebrities and European royals such as George Clooney stay in luxury hotels or own villas around the lake. Just a few weeks before our September visit, pop star Miley Cyrus created a media frenzy by taking several private boat rides there with friends. However, the villagers seem unimpressed by such events and are welcoming to everyone.

When to Go - Notwithstanding the alpine mountains nearby, Lake Como has its own microclimate because of its sheltered location which provides temperate weather almost year-round. While getting around the lake can be hectic during the high season, a trip in May or September is likely to provide near perfect conditions.

How to Get Here - There are international flights into Milan and Venice from just about every European hub and New York. Milan is about 90 minutes away from Bellagio and Venice is approximately 3 hours away. Many arrange to drive there or take a train from these cities or Rome into Como or Lecco. 

Where to Stay - There are several luxury hotels near Bellagio but you can't go wrong staying in the center of town at the Hotel du Lac, a moderately priced, family owned hotel with about 30 rooms, a scenic rooftop bar overlooking the water, a nice breakfast buffet and a street side restaurant under a portico. Other than a typically small and slow Italian elevator, the hotel provides a great base of operations and a relaxing place to enjoy several days on the lake.

Cost - A shared boat tour such as the Villa Balbianello excursion will cost about $80 per person. Shorter shared tours are available for about $50 per person and a romantic charter for a couple will cost about $325. Other companies in the town offer similar excursions.