Italian Lakes trip visiting three iconic lakes
Published 01 September 2019
A trip report on the iconic Italian Lakes of Garda, Como and Maggiore
Each lake provides its own opportunities for boat trips, water sports, relaxed exploration of the lakeside villages, visits to exotic gardens and villas, and walks around the lively local markets. The three lakes do, however, have their own unique character, which Victoria picked up on during her stay. Though each lake would be a thoroughly enjoyable long-stay destination, Victoria recommends that, due to the easy road links between them, they be combined into a multi-centre holiday, perhaps combined with Milan or Venice.
Lake Como
The centre-most lake of the three that Victoria visited, Lake Como is known for its forked shape, where the south is separated into two by the promontory of Bellagio. Victoria was particularly impressed by the fascinating scenery, where towering colourful villages are piled up amidst the forests of the hilly lakeside. Along the water’s edge are the private jetties of elegant villas and gardens. Travel between the friendly towns, each of which has its own selection of Romanesque churches and artisan shops, by ferry to really soak up the scenery. From the village of Tremezzo, you can see across to the picturesque village of Bellagio, which sits on the very tip of the peninsula that creates the lake’s forks.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como
The Grand Hotel Tremezzo was a personal favourite of Victoria’s on Lake Como and across the rest of her trip. A fin-de-siècle, Liberty-style property, this hotel offers a burst of vibrant colour against the natural hues of the lakeside. Raised up on the slopes, the five gourmet restaurants, rooms, three swimming pools, and terrace are granted sensational panoramic views. One of Victoria’s favourite aspects of the hotel was the ‘floating pool,’ which hovers in the lake, accompanied by its own small beach area. A terraced two-hectare park provides a stunning setting for afternoon rambles, and the newly opened T Spa offers state-of-the-art treatments. Prices from £1,490 per person for 7 nights, flights, and hire car.
Lake Garda
To the east, towards Venice, Lake Garda is Italy’s largest. Around its shores are romantic morainic hills, mountains, and fjords. Victoria’s favourite part of the lakeside was Sirmione, set on a narrow peninsula on the lake’s southern shore. Its pedestrianised streets are lined with shops and excellent restaurants, but the highlight of the town is Scaliger Castle, the walls of which extend out into the water. For all of these reasons, Lake Garda remains a popular haunt for actors, writers, and politicians, who seem to cultivate the exclusive feel of its waterside resorts, where the hotels have an elegant and opulent air. The southern shore is smattered with vineyards and spa towns, while the north is heavily influenced by the cuisine and culture of neighbouring German and Austria.
Palace Hotel Villa Cortine, Lake Garda
This was Victoria’s favourite Lake Garda hotel, situated in Sirmione. The design is both regal and neo-classical, which reflects the luxury amenities within this five-star hotel. Inside, the Palace Hotel Villa Cortine is suitably palatial, with fresco ceilings and ionic columns in the grand halls, and Venetian glass chandeliers in the guestrooms. Across the six hectares of land, you will find gardens rich in oleanders, pomegranate trees, and jasmine, as well as classical statues and marble patios. Part-hidden by the trees and flowers is an idyllic pool, and down on the lakeside is a private beach. In the evenings, dine on the panoramic terrace. Prices from £1,590 per person for 7 nights, flights, and hire car.
Lake Maggiore
Unique amongst the Italian lakes as it crosses the border into Switzerland, Lake Maggiore is arguably the most ‘Mediterranean’ of the lakes. Its sunny shores are lined with colourful villages and towns, and villas with lavish gardens are dotted throughout the verdant landscape. At the centre of the lake are the Borromean Islands, which add to the exceptional beauty of the lake. Isola Madre is known for its stunning gardens, Isola Bella for the Borromeo family palace, and Isola dei Pescatori for its quaint fishing village and seafood restaurants. Over on the Swiss side of the lake, the culture is still very distinctly Italian. On this side, Victoria’s favourite hotel was the Hotel Eden Roc, the perfect escape for families.
Hotel Cannero, Lake Maggiore
The Hotel Cannero is set in the beautiful Cannero Riviera, which is laced with cobbled streets and has a miniature harbour. The family of Signora Gallinotto owns the hotel, which gives the property a very homely and welcoming feel. The floral courtyard and the swimming pool are luxurious touches, while the ancient well and old monastery wine cellar create a real sense of history. The highlight of this hotel, that seems to bring all the luxury elements together, is the panoramic views across the lake. This was Victoria’s favourite hotel out of all the hotels she visited on her trip, which was owed to the fantastic authentic cuisine, the outstanding charm of the hotel, and the friendliness of the staff. Prices from £1,090 per person for 7 nights, flights, and hire car.
