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Gardens are often considered a valuable element of the villas, but in spring they become the real attraction for their blooms and for the pleasure of visiting them under the sun after the winter months. It is worth spending a weekend planning their visit.
We have drawn up a program for a memorable weekend!
DAY 1 - FRIDAY
Where to stay?
We like Tremezzina because it is the middle area of the lake and it is strategic for all transfers.
The choice is between two big names: the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and the Grand Hotel Victoria Menaggio.
The Grand Hotel Vittoria in Menaggio.
The Grand Hotel Victoria is a 19th century liberty neoclassic masterpiece, enriched by beautiful gardens and relaxing areas, and surrounded by breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
The Grand Hotel Tremezzo is an Art Nouveau icon located on the western shore of Lake Como, too. Against the backdrop of views ranging from crystal clear waters towards Bellagio to the peaks of the Grigne, you will be immersed in unique atmospheres complemented by three swimming pools, a private beach, and a lush private park.
Gran Hotel Tremezzo
Afternoon
Starting from Tremezzina, we recommend visiting Villa Carlotta, a place of rare beauty where nature and the works of man have coexisted in perfect harmony for over three hundred years.
Villa Carlotta preserves and enhances a unique historical, artistic, and botanical heritage on Lake Como for the selection of plants and flowers from all over the world, and the elegant museum with masterpieces by Canova and Hayez.
Another pearl of this town is certainly Villa del Balbianello, a romantic 18th-century building. The Villa overlooks a wide panorama that makes it one of the most scenic residences of the Lario, which for centuries has hosted writers and travelers, but also film sagas of the caliber of Star Wars and 007.
It is currently owned by the FAI (Italian Environment Fund) and it is possible to book a visit here:https://fai.midaticket.it/Event/4/Dates. Closed on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Evening
Returning from the visits, we recommend enjoying an aperitivo with an authentic flavor on the terrace of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, which offers a breathtaking view of the lake.
If you are passionate about gourmet cuisine and km0 products, we suggest dinner at "Ali di Alice" in Tremezzina. A small restaurant in which to taste local and seasonal products, accompanied by a beautiful view and a quiet and refined environment.
DAY 2 - SATURDAY
Morning
To start the day in the best possible way we propose a tour to Varenna, a small characteristic town on the opposite shore of the lake which can be reached in 15 minutes by boat.
The first place to visit is the magical Villa Monastero, originally born as a female monastery in the 12th century. It is a unique site thanks to its privileged position that allows you to have an exciting view. The complex consists of the villa itself, now transformed into a museum, and the splendid botanical garden that surrounds it, extending for almost 2 km following the shore of the lake.
For lunch, in Varenna, we recommend Villa dei Cipressi, a structure built between 1400 and 1800 that directly overlooks the lake. Refurbished in 2018, it is currently a luxury service hotel, but the view will keep you busy watching.
After lunch we recommend a walk in the village of Varenna, you will be immersed in a romantic and picturesque atmosphere!
Afternoon / Evening
The time has come for the "dolce far niente": back to the hotel, you can relax in the exclusive spa. Both the Grrand Hotel Tremezzo and the Grand Hotel Vittoria in Menaggio have two spectacular ones.
For those who still have energy, upon returning it is possible to go on excursions to discover nature and the mountains surrounding the lake. Here is a list of the various itineraries of varying difficulty:
https://menaggio.com/comceptr/media/passeggiate-intorno-menaggio-it-en.pdf]
DAY 3 - SUNDAY
Morning
Bellagio is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages on Lake Como and in Italy. Couldn't miss it. Also reachable by boat, it has romantic narrow streets in its center and opulent villas in the suburbs.
Precisely for this reason, we recommend starting the tour from Villa Melzi D’Eril, a historic residence famous for its splendid neoclassical-style gardens open to the public. The structure includes the Villa, the Chapel, and the Serra degli Aranci or Orangérie, now set up as a museum of great historical importance.
For lunch, we offer two cuisine alternatives: one glamorous and one typical.
The Mistral restaurant in Villa Serbelloni, reviewed by the best Italian food guides and awarded a star by the Michelin Guide, is a classic stop for the jet-set, given its history and its service.
The second place is the ancient "Crotto del Misto", which boasts a long culinary tradition and an ancient cellar. Located in Lezzeno, a small fishing village just outside Bellagio, the restaurant offers only traditional products from the lake which are now very difficult to find.
Check out the interview with Tabata Caldironi, former dancer and author of Puccini's The Wounded Women. We explore with her the role of Puccini's heroines, the influence of art on social change, and the connection between creativity and femininity in the modern world.
