Day 8 Exploring Griante & Menaggio

Incredible thunder storm last night - a real sound & light show - but by 11 am the sun came out and we ventured out. The 3k walk to Menaggio varied from open path to tiny strip next to the road with cars, motorcycles & bikers whizzing by. We were amazed by how many cyclists there were on these narrow winding roads. The survival techinique must be “own the road.” Menaggio is much larger and more touristy than Griante. Our conclusion - right choice by settling in Griante.

Menaggio stretches up into the hills, and its shore is lined with boats & ferries. We even saw a Canadian flag flying. The heart of the city is Piazza Garibaldi - lots of bars & cafes looking out onto the lake. Highlights were a fresh fruit & veggie shop and a monument by Francesco Somaini dedicated to some silk weavers. It seems Como was one of the silk capitols of the world.

18,000 steps later we arrived home, opened a bottle of Bardolino and made ourselves some pasta - how Italian! All in all a great day. What a contrast between neat, orderly Switzerland and chaotic Italy - but each has its special charm.Read more