Views from Varenna
9 septembre 2018, Italie ⋅ ☀️ 23 °CSupposedly the jewel of Lake Como. But all the small towns clinging to the steep shoreline are lovely. Some more tourist oriented than others which are still just local communities.
Supposedly the jewel of Lake Como. But all the small towns clinging to the steep shoreline are lovely. Some more tourist oriented than others which are still just local communities.
Winding cliff hugging roads, a couple of dark 2km tunnels and then a climb to the saddle of the peninsula before a descent to Bellagio.
Sensibly avoided the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni for lunch asEn savoir plus
Five bikes on the ferry necessitated a call to the Captain so we were able to get to Argegno. It was great to see the lakeside villas from the water.
Villa Balbianello was spectacular - no wonder itEn savoir plus
So the waterfront real estate on Lake Como’s western shore (Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Laglio, Brienno) is something else. Very grand palazzos, huge expensive hotels, lush and manicured gardens!
NoEn savoir plus
Ferry to tiny Nesso. Drawcard is the Orido (gorge and waterfall) that splits the town. The bridge is perfect for jumping off - as a few kids were doing. Drawback - carting the bikes 340 steep cobbledEn savoir plus
Train to Airolo in Switzerland for a ride back to Bellinzona. The initial altitude loss was brilliant. Perfect switchback roads with dramatic views - like an Olympic Super G downhill run!
Then theEn savoir plus
So Lugano made it Lake #4 (the others being lakes Garda, Iseo & Como. Again a bit of everything from local communities to pockets of expensive real estate.... obvious from the manicured lawns, highEn savoir plus
Lots of lovely piazzas give Como a relaxed vibe. Enjoyed the brief exploring after each days riding.
And time to say ‘arrivederci’ Italy - I have loved my two weeks Cycle touring. Now onto Spain.