Immersion Travel Podcast – Lake Como Series

In our final episode, we focus on the experiences that make Lake Como unforgettable—whether you’re adventuring, relaxing, celebrating, or finding inspiration. From hikes and swims to cultural excursions and romantic stays, this guide helps you craft the perfect visit. We also offer tailored hotel suggestions by traveler preference, complete with booking links.

Outdoor Adventures

• Hiking:
  • Sentiero del Viandante (east shore) winds from Abbadia Lariana to Colico
  • Greenway del Lago (west shore) connects Colonno and Griante
  • San Martino hike above Griante
  • Monte Grona (Menaggio) and Piani d’Erna (via Lecco cable car) offer panoramic views
• Biking:
  • Bike trails in Colico along the Adda River
  • Menaggio to Porlezza path through forests and lakeside landscapes
  • Casual cycling in Cremia with lakefront cafés
• Swimming:
  • Riva Bianca beach in Lierna
  • Menaggio lido with pool and loungers
  • Beaches and bays in Colico for windsurfing and relaxing
• Paragliding:
  • Tandem flights launch from Monte Berlinghera or Gera Lario, offering aerial views of the lake and Alps

On the Water

• Ferry-Hopping:
  • Navigazione Laghi offers regular service connecting the main towns
  • Day passes enable cross-lake travel without a car
• Boat Rentals:
  • Private boat rentals (with or without a skipper) in Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo, Domaso
  • Sunset cruises and personalized tours
• Kayaking & Paddleboarding:
  • Available in quieter northern towns—Domaso and Gera Lario are ideal for peaceful paddles at dawn or dusk

Best Base Towns and Hotels

Couples: Varenna or Bellagio

Varenna

• Hotel Villa Cipressi – Romantic 4-star villa with centuries-old gardens and wellness suites
• Albergo Milano – Boutique intimate hotel with lakeside dining and sunset views
• Hotel du Lac Varenna – Classic waterfront charm with balconies and proximity to ferry terminal

Bellagio

• Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni – Luxury lakeside retreat with fine dining and spa
• Hotel Belvedere Bellagio – Spa, infinity pool, and panoramic terraces
• Hotel Du Lac Bellagio – Cozy, centrally located with excellent access to shops and boats

Outdoor Lovers: Colico or Menaggio

Colico

• Seven Park Hotel – Lakeside pool, spa, direct water and cycling access
• Hotel Risi – Comfortable and convenient on the promenade
• B&B Villa Simona – Mountain-view B&B ideal as a hikers’ base

Menaggio

• Grand Hotel Menaggio – Elegant lakeside rooms with private dock access
• Hotel Garni Corona – Boutique lodging in the historic center
• Hotel Bellavista Menaggio – Terrace dining with unbeatable lake and mountain views

Families: Tremezzo or Domaso

Tremezzo

• Grand Hotel Tremezzo – Iconic 5-star with multiple pools, floating spa, and private beach
• Hotel La Darsena – Quaint and family-focused with ferry access and lake views
• Hotel Bazzoni et Du Lac – Affordable lakeside comfort steps from Villa Carlotta

Domaso

• Hotel Vischi – Pool and playground; perfect for active families
• Residence Domaso – Apartment-style stay with flexible facilities
• Lakeside Holiday Resort – Budget-friendly lakeside cottages and garden space

Culture Seekers: Como or Lecco

Como

• Palace Hotel – Elegant 4-star close to the Duomo and promenade
• Hotel Metropole Suisse – Waterfront charm and historic ambiance
• Albergo Terminus – Boutique styling within the old town

Lecco

• NH Lecco Pontevecchio – Modern lakeside comfort near museums and trails
• Hotel Alberi – Friendly central hotel with local character
• HLL Hotel Lungolago Lecco – Sleek design, lakefront views, bike rentals

On the Horizon: Next Steps

• Pick your travel style and town based on the experiences that excite you most—romantic stays, family-friendly options, active adventures, or cultural exploration
• Consider your ideal length of stay, preferred season, and access needs—our full Lake Como guide includes sample itineraries

This final episode isn’t just about places—it’s about how to live Lake Como. We hope the town and hotel recommendations spark ideas for your upcoming trip.