Visit Lake Como, Italian Lakes

The glittering shores of Lake Como have long beguiled generations of visitors with beautiful vistas of deep blue waters, wooded hillsides and elegant villas. From European aristocrats to the Hollywood glitterati it's easy to see why Como became their summer destination of choice. Shaped like an upside-down Y, the three arms of the lake converge at the attractive town of Bellagio, often referred to as the pearl of the lake with its café lined waterfront and port of bobbing fishing boats. Other lakeside towns such as Tremezzo, Varenna and Menaggio are particularly picturesque, boasting luxurious lakeside villas and spectacular gardens that are sure to delight. Finally, at the southwestern tip the prosperous town of Como boasts a delightful medieval core complete with winding streets and charming boutiques.

This large, wishbone-shaped lake exudes class. I like the historic, residential districts of the resort towns on the shores. The lake itself is encircled with lavish, private villas and gardens — best admired from a boat.