Just an hour's drive from the bustling streets of Milan and nestled among the steep, wooded mountains of northern Italy, Lake Como sparkles like a hidden gem. It was in this captivating storybook region that I found the perfect retreat from the vibrant energy of Milan Design Week. With enchanting towns, exceptional villas and breathtaking views, I was able to relax, reflect, and soak in ‘la dolce vita’ along with my favourite design and travel besties.

The Charms of Lake Como's Towns

We decided to base ourselves in Bellagio, a dreamy, picturesque village located at the intersection of the two branches of Lake Como (think of the lake as shaped like an upside-down ‘Y’ to get the lay of the land). With its charming cobbled streets lined with boutique shops, cosy trattorias and colourful architecture, we couldn’t have picked a better locale. Each day, we wandered through the town’s colourful lanes, enjoying the blend of old-world charm and vibrant Italian spirit that permeates every corner. The warmth and joy of the locals from boutique owners to baristas—made us feel right at home.

A short, but vigorous, stroll over cobbled laneways took us from Bellagio to Pescallo, a tiny fishing hamlet nestled at the upper point of the eastern branch of the lake. Here, we stumbled upon La Pergola, a former 14th-century convent turned family-owned hotel. With sweeping views of the lake and snow-capped mountains and a petite harbour full of colourful bobbing boats and serenely swimming ducks, it was the perfect spot to sip a macchiato and indulge in a cornetti as the morning sun warmed the hotel’s terrace.

Adventuring further afield is as easy as catching one of the many passenger or car ferries that ply the lake from shore to shore. And, just a short ferry ride away from Bellagio is Varenna, a picturesque village perched on the eastern side of Lake Como. Stepping off the ferry, you immediately encounter the enchanting Passeggiata degli Innamorati, or Walk of Lovers, that winds along the lakeshore to Riva Grande, a small harbour where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy a gelato or a spritz in the sun.

At the southern end of the lake, on the western branch, is the eponymous town of Como. Larger and more bustling than other villages on the lake, it provides a lively contrast to the smaller towns without losing the charm of winding cobblestone streets and sun-drenched piazzas. A highlight is the magnificent Duomo di Como, an architectural delight blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. From the grand cathedral to the Broletto (town hall), this unique building sets the tone for exploring the rest of the town.

Villa Visits: Exploring the Grandeur of Lake Como

No visit to Lake Como is complete without exploring its magnificent villas, each with its own story to tell. Beginning at Villa Carlotta in Tremezzina, where the beauty of the villa's botanical gardens was matched only by the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, we explored the incredible gardens, famed for the masses of azaleas and rhododendrons. Strolling through the vast garden, it’s possible to see plants from all over the world, including some familiar Australian species, as well as enchanting citrus tunnels, trellised roses and monumental trees. The villa itself, built in the 17th century for Milanese royalty, with its patterned terrazzo floors and coffered ceilings, is a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship.

Across the lake at Villa Monastero in Varenna, is another equally impressive and expansive garden, filled with traditional and exotic plants, that meanders along the lakeside for close to 2 kms. Originally a monastery, the villa's eclectic architecture spans centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into Italy's rich history. The terrazzo floors alone made the visit worthwhile, and we spent hours exploring its lush surroundings.

Dining the Italian Way: Bellagio's Culinary Delights

Our stay in Lake Como was made even more memorable by the quintessential dining experiences we had along the way. In Bellagio, Trattoria San Giacomo quickly became a favourite. This casual, cosy eatery, named after the nearby 12th-century stone church, welcomed us with classic Italian hospitality. To add to the experience, diners are invited to relax on the adjacent stone steps while waiting for a table and enjoy a wine or spritz from Aperitivo Et Al across the lane. The Italian hospitality even extends to offering comfy cushions and warm blankets as you relax and chat with locals and tourists alike. As we sat on the steps and watched the sun set over the lake, I knew we were in for a treat and their homemade pastas did not disappoint!

For a more traditional, classic feel, Bar Rosa, on the lakefront, became our go-to for a morning espresso and pistachio croissant or a relaxing afternoon aperitivo. The warm atmosphere, enhanced by the original 1930s timber cabinetry that envelopes the cafe, made it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The staff even volunteered a few pointers on the correct pronunciation of key Italian words!

Another highlight was Enoteca Cava Turacciolo, a restored 18th-century wine cellar located in Bellagio. This family-owned wine bar offers a variety of local wines and delicious antipasti, providing a perfect end to our days of exploration.

For an altogether different Italian experience, we stopped at the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo after touring Villa Carlotta. A luxury hotel steeped in history and designed in the playful Belle Epoque style, dining here was an absolute treat. From the elevated terrace, we enjoyed a panoramic view of Lake Como while sipping on aperitivo. With its striped umbrellas and colourful branding, this hotel experience is the epitome of la dolce vita.

Shopping in Bellagio: Local Treasures

Bellagio’s boutique shopping was an absolute delight. Cova Boutique, situated right on the lakefront, was a standout. The owner’s background in fashion shone through in her refined yet playful selection of clothing, and the impeccable service makes it a shopping experience like no other. At Saraceno, we found beautifully crafted silk scarves, leather handbags, and locally-made jewellery, each piece reflecting the owner's years of experience working for Armani.

For leather lovers, Quelli Della Pelle offered handmade leather goods, from belts to handbags, all crafted in Bellagio. And, for those looking to add a touch of Italian style to their wardrobe, Ottica Vergottini showcased a stunning range of designer sunglasses and eyewear.

While the point of travel isn’t shopping, I couldn’t resist indulging in a few purchases! Every time I wear one of the beautifully crafted pieces sourced during our trip, it brings back wonderful memories of the experiences, joy and delight of the trip.

Living La Dolce Vita: Exploring the Lake

Whether gliding across the lake on a private, classic timber boat or taking in the views from one of the many ferries, Lake Como’s beauty is unending. Seeing the famous film locations from Casino Royale, A Month by the Lake, and Star Wars: Attack of the Clones is a fun bonus, but the real magic lies in simply soaking in the scenery—the majestic mountains, the sparkling water, and the timeless villages that dot the lakeshore -- and soaking up the Italian lifestyle, from indulging in an afternoon gelato to taking leisurely strolls through the towns while breathing in the charm and elegance that only Lake Como can offer.

A Trip to Remember

Our time in Lake Como was a perfect blend of design, nature, and Italian culture. From the stunning villas and quaint villages to the delicious food and warm hospitality, every moment was a reminder of why Italy continues to inspire design lovers around the world. I hope this little travelogue has sparked your imagination and perhaps even encouraged you to plan your own adventure to this beautiful corner of Italy.

Ciao, Como, a presto!