Out of Office: Notes from Lake Como

How do we get our incredible travel tips? Through these posts. As our experts are out visiting the destinations featured in our portfolio, they share with us the best activities, newest attractions, and their favorite villas, supplying us (and you) with an up-to-date account of the area.

Destination: Como, Italy

What We Saw: Lake Como

Before we got to Como, we’d heard a lot about the so-called magic of its lake. The golden sunlight, we were told, shimmered on its shores while the surrounding boardwalks and villages were utterly enchanting.

Everything we heard was true.

When we arrived at the train station after our flight from New York, our driver was waiting to take us to our villa, nestled inside the Villa d’Este estate. Eager to see the area, we could not get out of the car fast enough when it finally sighed to a stopped. The air was warm, the lake sun-drenched, and the temperature ideal to explore our surroundings.

During the three days we spent in Como, we visited many great villas, passed through elaborate iron gates, and climbed seemingly endless flights of stairs – all without ever feeling tired. It was clear to us that we were under the lake’s spell. Every village we drove through appeared to be nicer than the one we left behind. What’s more, we were intoxicated by the region’s effortless, lazy rhythm – a far cry from that of the nearby and ever-fashionable Milan.

While we loved exploring on land, it was only a matter of time before we took a boat ride out onto Lake Como itself. Our captain picked us up at the Villa d’Este dock and showed us the lake’s most famous sites and most impressive villas. We were surrounded by beauty and felt completely at ease while the blue sky and the steep mountains towered over us.

Where We Stayed: Villa Cima

There are plenty of reasons to love Villa Cima – the fantastic location inside Villa d’Este, the beautiful appointed rooms, the uncompromised level of service – but none compare to the incredible lake views. From the villa’s private terrace, you can truly experience paradise as the sun comes down over the lake in the late afternoon.

Staying at Villa Cima also gives you access to Villa d’Este’s facilities, from the spa to the sport center (which includes a floating pool). And if you don’t feel like cooking, you can choose to dine a la carte at one of the restaurants, or explore those around the lake.

For instance, if you’re craving the freshest local food, head to Momi. Located on the shore in front of Villa d’Este, it’s an ideal spot for grabbing lunch or dinner. And the best part? We’ll take care of the details. Allow us to arrange a boat ride complete with a stop at Momi’s, where you’ll enjoy special treatment from the simpatico and experienced chef, as well as a glass of wine on us!

Until next time,

Margherita & Saffo

Looking for more accommodations? Explore our portfolio of Lake Como residences and Italy villas.