Italy

Lake Como

Described by poet William Wordsworth as ‘a treasure which the earth keeps to itself’, Como is the most stunning of the lakes, with lush vegetation, crystal clear waters and dramatic peaks rising from the water’s edge; an oasis of tranquillity. Measuring 146 sq kms, it is shaped like an upside down Y and its shoreline is home to a number of villages and towns, the most popular being Como on the south western shore, and Lecco to the south east.

Lake Garda

With cooling summer breezes and a mild winter climate, located between Milan and Verona, Garda is an ideal spot to take to the water and get active with windsurfing, a particularly popular pastime. Whilst on shore, the olive groves, vineyards and craggy mountains just beg to be explored. Known as an Italian playground, it comes complete with two bustling amusement parks, a cable car, skiing in winter and hiking and biking in the summer months.

Lake Maggiore

On the border with Switzerland and in the shade of the Alps, Maggiore still manages a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere with calm waters, flat shores and resort-style towns, a perfect place to relax and unwind. Picturesque and unique, this gorgeous lake is studded with flower-filled islands, and the shoreline affords stunning views of the water and mountain scenery, particularly from the popular, and pretty, resort-town of Stresa.

Travellers’ Secrets

Ghoulish Gargoyles

Como town is home to one of the best examples of Gothic–Renaissance fusion architecture at its stunning Duomo. Four centuries in the making, it is well worth spending some time here to see the ghoulish gargoyles of the exterior and rich Renaissance tapestries that line the interior walls. It’s also one of the best vantage points for breathtaking views over the lake.

Authentic cuisine

Indulge your tastebuds with some authentic Piedmont cuisine and head to Restaurant Pietmonteseon in central Stresa, on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. It’s a great place to sample regional cuisine in elegant surroundings, with vintage wines, tempting desserts and an eclectic mix of clientele.