A BIT OF LAKE HISTORY
Lake Como started as a place where communities were linked by boat - which is why the ferries are a relaxing and interesting way to get around even if you have a car. You will see grand villas from the water’s edge (George’s for instance), and visit picturesque lakeside towns.
VILLA DEL BALBIANELLO
This is, in the words of one of our sophisticated Chinese friends from Hong Kong, the most beautiful place she has ever visited. It's worth doing the tour!
VILLA DEL BALBIANELLO GARDENS
The tour of the villa is not essential if you're happy just to soak up the amazing gardens. But if you want to understand more of the history, do take the tour of the house as well.
WALK TO MONTE GRONA
This is a spectacular hike which we did in May 2017. Here is one of the views of the Lake from 2/3 of the way to the top. Ahead is the part of Lake Como which goes down to Lecco, with Bellagio on the tip in the middle distance
The refuge on the way up to Monte Crocione just above our house. You can drive up to access the ridge walk via Argegno and Pigra. Great food at the Rifugio on the way back!
The summit of Monte Crocione in the distance - no photos from us of the views, go up there and see...
Guy’s Passion! Go and have seaplane flying lessons at Aero Club Como, a very professional outfit with a rich history in the centre of Como on the lake. You can watch these float planes cruising around the lake.
MONTE GRONA
The top. Not much more to say. We won't spoil it for you by showing the views from the top over Lake Como and also North to Lake Lugano and Switzerland, you have to go there!
The view half way up to Monte Crocione - and this was in October 2017!
Winter/Early Spring: Wild flowers (Hellebore, quite common but rarer in the wild) also primroses, violets on a winter walk up behind the house to Pra della Tacca.
The February view from Pra Della Tacca - a circular walk from our house to Griante.