5 MUST-DO ACTIVITIES IN LAKE COMO
By Elena Markova
When visiting tourist destinations it’s always hard to steer away from the over-popular experiences and attractions that often lose the touch of authenticity that made these places world-renowned in the first place.
The solution? Simple! Ask people who live the local life.
Elena, the founder of COMO LAKE Today, has always been a Bel Paese lover, and since moving to Italy in 2013 not only does she live the local life, but she shares tips and experiences with everyone wishing to visit. So we reached out to get to know 5 must-do activities in Lake Como.
Lake Como is a place of remarkable grace; it combines an allure of incredible natural beauty, rich history and stunning landscapes that create an exceptional atmosphere. Here is a list of five must-do activities to experience in Lake Como.
Take a private boat trip and admire Lake Como from the water
The main must-do activity in Lake Como is a private boat tour. You can take a luxury taxi-boat or rent a small boat that doesn't require a license and be the captain for a day. Lake Como looks much more diverse when you see it from the water. It is, by far, one of the best experiences Lake Como has to offer. From the water, the lake reveals its true beauty: you will see ancient villas, remote locations, hidden gems, beautiful gardens descending onto the waters. The boat tour will amaze you in any season or weather.
You may rent a boat for a few hours or for the whole day, go for a swim and have a picnic or moor for a dreamy lunch. Don't forget to take a plaid, water, and some snacks to travel in total comfort amidst the lake's refreshingly clean air.
Go to Brunate by cable railway
One of the easiest and enjoyable things to do when you are in Como city is to go to Brunate from Como by funicular. This cable railway has been operating since 1894 and connects the centre of Como with the little resort town of Brunate, located at the height of about 488 m. It's a prime spot to see the lake and the countless number of villas dotting the hillside. From Brunate, you can admire Lake Como's breath-taking panorama, nearby cities, and, in good weather, even discern Milan, Turin, and bordering Switzerland.
Brunate is also an excellent choice for hikes – there are numerous routes for different levels. From Brunate, you can walk back down to Como via Eremo di San Donato, or you can have a longer hike to Molina and get back to Como by boat from Torno.
Contemplate Bellagio from a kayak
Bellagio is truly an enchanting, world-renowned tourist destination. Visitors from all over the world adore its quay, narrow streets and tiny bars. Would you also like to see the pearl of Lake Como from an unusual touristic angle? Go for a kayaking tour with Bellagio Water Sports, founded by Michele Gondola!
Michele Gandola is originally from Bellagio and lives in the beautiful small Borgo of Pescallo (Bellagio). Michele is a former professional rower, and he has extensive experience as an instructor at the local rowing club.
Photo: @bellagiowatersports
Photo: @bellagiowatersports
The kayak tour starts at the magnificent Pescallo beach through the bay along the Villa Serbelloni and Rockefeller Foundation Park. During the tour, Michele Gandolga will show you hidden Bellagio sights and natural spots, the north part of the lake's landscape and the Alps. You will enjoy the fantastic views of the countryside area from your own kayak. These Bellagio scenes are not accessible from the standard touristic routes without a kayak.
An excellent way to comprehend life in a specific place is to connect with the local people – Michele Gandola is the perfect guide for that. Besides the water activities, he will also provide you with valuable insight into local restaurants, shops and other activities.
Photo: @bellagiowatersports
Explore Lake Como from a seaplane
Few people know that the Aero Club of Como, founded in 1930, is one of the oldest in Europe. The seaplane flying school operating here is the largest in Europe and the oldest in the world. It provides full training for the Private Pilot's License.
In addition to its main activity, the Aero Club of Como offers seaplane flying tours. And it's one of the most spectacular experiences in Lake Como! For the brave folks, of course. Travellers enjoy the lake's stunning scenery and surrounding mountains from a bird's eye view during a seaplane tour over Lake Como. A seaplane ride on Lake Como will give you truly amazing memories!
Try the Italian Aperitivo at Bottega and Café Da Luciano
Aperitivo is a part of the "Italian dolce vita". It is also a fantastic social moment. Aperitivo at Bottega and Café Da Luciano is a must-try experience in Lake Como. The tiny café is located in Laglio, the village where George Clooney settled down in his villa. Luciano Motti opened his butchers' shop in Laglio in 1996. Globalization changed the consumption models: supermarkets spread around the lake; the small butcher's shop business started to stagnate. And this was the time when Luciano's sons came up with a great idea: they transformed the butcher's shop into a home-made delicatessen shop with an aperitif café. Now at the Bottega and Café Da Luciano, you can have a fabulous aperitive by the lake, served with a delightful plate of the best selection of local meats and cheese, provided by the charming Motti family.
