No visit to northern Italy or Milan is complete without a visit to the nearby lakes of Como, Maggiore and Garda. A century before George Clooney set up house along the shores of Lake Como, it was already a world-renowned destination for at least a few centuries. Virgil, Stendhal, Verdi, Byron, Shelley and Wordsworth were all captivated by the lake’s deep blue water, Alpine peaks and flourishing flora. The lake’s namesake city of Como has been Italy’s silk capital since the 1500s and the nearby the village of Cernobbio is home to one of the world’s most luxurious hotels, Villa d’Este. When you head over to Lake Maggiore, you will be dazzled by its gardens and islands so be sure to take a boat out to visit the Borromeo Islands. Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake and offers numerous sporting opportunities and its share of delightful hotels.
Free Articles
- Editor’s Note: February/March 2023 Dream of Italy Issue
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- In Search of the Modern Grand Tour of Italy
- Lake Como, the Movie Star
- Villa d’Este Reveals the Recipe for Frank Sinatra’s Favorite Risotto
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