Lake Como Archives - Gazing and Grazing

I Tigli in Theoria in Como – Modern Italian in an Enchanting Space

March 28th, 2017

I Tigli in Theoria is a Michelin starred modern Italian restaurant with fantastic pastry in a beautiful courtyard building in central Como. This was our first meal in Como - a large seven course lunch at the chef's table with a view of the kitchen. Unfortunately, having just arrived after a 12-hour flight, it was difficult to fully enjoy what we were eating. Nonetheless, I'm glad I was able to squeeze in a visit and overall, I think it's well worth having a meal here. The tasting menu costs...

Varenna – Best Place to Chill Out on Lake Como

March 25th, 2017

Varenna may be one of Lake Como's smaller towns, but it packs a big punch in enjoyability even if most of our visit consisted of sitting at a cafe drinking aperol spritzes. Situated on the central eastern edge of Lake Como, Varenna is well worth a visit for its lake front ease and photogenic waterfront. Simply put, there probably is no better place or way to see the sun set at Lake Como.

Why We Came

We had a spare afternoon in Lake Como and between the hustle of...

Lake Como’s Serene Side Along the Greenway Walk

March 21st, 2017

The Greenway Walk is a welcome diversion from the glitz, crowds and confection normally associated with Lake Como. This ten kilometre walk runs along the western edge of the lake, with some of the path cutting into the hills above the glamorous mansions. I did this walk last October, starting on the northern end, just outside Villa Carlotta although the most commonly mentioned start point is Colonno on the southern end. It's an easy walk that can be enjoyed by most folks and can be...

Villa Carlotta is another Lake Como Gem

November 13th, 2016

Among Lake Como's grand villas, the Villa Carlotta is one of the three key ones to visit. The villa dominates the landscape near Tremezzo, with its grand garden facing that of rival Villa Melzi's across the lake.

In our three day visit of Lake Como, we started with Villa Carlotta and I think this was the right move because the villa itself pales in comparison to the Villa Balbianello. This is because the Carlotta is not as well furnished and doesn't occupy that grand promontory over the...

Alle Darsene di Loppia in Lake Como – Perfect Lunch in Bellagio

November 5th, 2016

At the far end of Bellagio's Villa Melzi garden is the little hamlet of Loppia where the restaurant Alle Darsene di Loppia serves up a perfect lunch. Picture this - a vine covered pergola, crisp white linen, fresh local seafood and wine on an early autumn day. While the weather may not always be as ideal as it was during my visit last month, I'd still make the Alle Darsene di Loppia a must visit eatery in Lake Como for its unpretentious cooking and warm and friendly service. The risotto...