Lake Como

Lake Como is a masterpiece of nature framed by snow-dusted Alps, where palatial villas and terraced gardens cascade down to the deep blue waters of Italy's most glamorous lake. The inverted-Y shape of the lake creates three dramatic branches, with the central point at Bellagio - the "Pearl of the Lake" - offering some of Europe's most spectacular waterfront scenery.

Celebrated since Roman times and beloved by aristocrats, artists, and celebrities (George Clooney's Villa Oleandra has made it internationally famous), Lake Como offers a refined blend of villa-hopping by ferry, lakeside dining, garden tours, and mountain hikes with commanding views of the entire lake and Alps beyond.

Mid-April to June and September are ideal - gardens are in bloom, the weather is warm (18-28°C), and ferries run frequently. July-August is peak season with the warmest lake swimming but heavy crowds. Winter sees many hotels and restaurants close, but the towns are atmospheric.