BLESSED BY HEAVEN

The third largest Italian lake, the deepest and unarguably the most spectacular lies at the foot of the Rhaetian Alps, framed by dark green forested hills. Its shoreline is studded with a succession of charming sights: elegant mansions set amongst lush Mediterranean foliage, lavish terraced gardens cascading right down to the waters, pretty towns sprinkled with pastel-hued buildings, lakeshore restaurants shaded by blooming pergolas. These “enchanting spots, unequalled on earth for loveliness” (Stendhal), have beckoned countless generations of writers, poets, musicians and artists for hundreds of years. A fashionable destination since ancient Roman times, when wealthy patricians retreated here to escape the summer heat, this watery wonderland keeps attracting notable visitors and celebrities with its unique allure and combination of artistic treasures, architectural marvels and fabulous landscapes.

Soak up the beauties of Lake Como on this full-day excursion from Milan. Your chauffeur will meet you outside your accommodation and drive you to Villa Carlotta. Here your private guide will be waiting ready to lead you on a tour of a historic residence and its splendid gardens.

Built between 1690 and 1743 for the pleasure-seeking marquis Giorgio Clerici, Villa Carlotta now houses an exquisite museum. Sculpted masterpieces by Antonio Canova and Bertel Thorvaldsen are on display together with a fine collection of paintings, cameos, furniture and decorative pieces from the mid-19th century. The eight-hectare neighbouring garden is a triumph of colour and variety and provides a magnificent backdrop to the palazzo. Five hundred different botanical species, including hydrangeas, rhododendrons, palms, tropical plants and aromatic herbs flourish in this romantic oasis, rated among Italy’s most beautiful gardens by prestigious local and international magazines.

Following the visit, hop aboard a taxi boat, reach the opposite shore and dock at Bellagio, the celebrated “pearl of the lake”. Enjoy some free time for lunch, before stepping into the ravishing gardens of Villa Melzi. First built as the summer residence of politician Francesco Melzi d’Eril, ally of Napoleon and vice president of the Italian Republic from 1802 to 1805, the Neoclassical-style villa is owned today by a local aristocratic family. Although the interior is not accessible to the public, guests may take a scenic walk through the grounds designed by architect Luigi Canonica and agronomist Luigi Villoresi in the early 1800s. Once a favourite picnic spot of the composer Franz Lizst, perhaps he had this very oasis in mind when he gave the following tip to the author Louis de Ronchaud in 1837: “When you write the story of two happy lovers, place them on the shores of Lake Como. I do not know of any land so conspicuously blessed by heaven”. Here you may amble along winding paths, flanked by statues, flower beds and centuries-old trees, admire a range of exotic plants such as Ginkgo Biloba, Bamboo and Japanese maples, feast your eyes on colourful camellias and azaleas and saunter around the oriental-style pond.

Next, follow your guide up steep stone steps lined with pastel-hued houses, cosy cafes and flowering balconies to the heart of the old town. After an introduction to the history of Bellagio and its major landmarks, you may take some free time to browse around boutiques and craft shops.

Take a last long look at the stunning lakescapes before returning to your accommodation in Milan.