Nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Como has long been a favoured retreat for those seeking romance, relaxation, and a touch of luxury.
For travellers over 50, the region offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring opulent villas to savouring exquisite Italian cuisine.
Here’s how one weekend unfolded, along with practical tips for those planning their own Lake Como adventure:
Daytime Adventures: Style, Scenery, and Shopping
The mornings on our trip were reserved for some light indulgence—shopping! Lake Como’s proximity to Milan means access to fabulous factory outlets and design houses. The hunt for luxury bargains is a perfect way to start the day, especially if you have a passion for Italian craftsmanship.
From there, we moved into soaking up the lake’s scenic charm. A highlight of our trip was an impromptu visit to some of the iconic villas that dot the shoreline. Among them was Villa Passalacqua, where an American banker welcomed us warmly. His impressive villa was rich in history, with ties to the famous opera composer Bellini. The banker regaled us with tales of his restoration project, punctuated by photographs of his former life, including moments with Ronald Reagan. Now converted into a luxury hotel, Villa Passalacqua is a must-visit spot, even if just to admire its grandeur from the outside.
Another villa we explored was the famed Villa d’Este, a five-star gem. While we didn’t stay overnight, we did enjoy a sumptuous supper in its grand surroundings. The grounds alone are worth a visit—strolling through them felt like stepping into a picture-perfect postcard. If you’re looking for a splurge-worthy stay, this would be top of the list.
Tip for Travellers Over 50: Many of the historic villas offer guided tours or allow access to their gardens for a fee. Booking in advance or arriving early can help you avoid crowds and truly soak in the Italian serenity.
Evenings of Culinary Delight
No visit to Italy would be complete without indulging in its world-renowned cuisine, and Lake Como did not disappoint. Chris, our resident culinary enthusiast, made a bold claim: “Italian cooking is far better than French!” While that’s up for debate, the meals we enjoyed during our visit certainly made his case.
In Como itself, Osteria La Tana dei Pescatori stood out for its intimate setting and excellent seafood dishes. Another gem was Feel Como, a relatively new restaurant run by passionate young owners. The innovative menu and welcoming atmosphere made it a highlight of the trip.
At Villa d’Este, our supper was a true feast. However, a minor snafu with the sommelier—who took great offense at our wine selection—added a touch of unintentional comedy to the evening. His disdain didn’t diminish the quality of the meal or the sheer luxury of dining in such opulent surroundings.
Tip for Travellers Over 50: Italian restaurants often offer set menus or tasting experiences, which can be a fantastic way to sample the best of the local cuisine without overthinking. But remember, don’t hesitate to communicate your preferences—it’s your meal, after all!
Exploring Bellagio and Varenna
Lake Como is more than its villas and restaurants; the charming towns around the lake are equally enchanting. We took the train from Milan Central to Varenna early in the morning—pre-booked tickets made the journey stress-free. Arriving early also meant avoiding the bulk of the tourist crowds, which can peak at around 11am!
Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” is a picture-perfect town with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and stunning lake views. Nearby, Varenna offered a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, with its beautiful gardens and delightful cafes. We took time to savour a coffee and pastry while soaking in the ambiance.
Tip for Travellers Over 50: Comfortable walking shoes are a must! Both Bellagio and Varenna have steep, cobblestone streets that can be challenging but rewarding to explore. Consider taking a short ferry between towns for a scenic view of the lake from the water.
Practical Tips for Your Lake Como Adventure
Getting There: Trains from Milan to Lake Como are efficient and affordable. Pre-book tickets to secure your preferred travel time.
Accommodations: Consider saving on accommodation while splurging on memorable dining experiences or guided tours.
Dining: Reserve tables at popular restaurants, especially for dinner. Exploring smaller, locally owned spots often leads to delightful surprises.
Timing: Visit in spring or early autumn to avoid peak tourist crowds and enjoy milder weather.
Health and Mobility: If you’re over 50, plan for leisurely activities and make use of ferries and local transport to reduce walking fatigue.
Lake Como: More Than a Destination
Our weekend in Lake Como was a blend of adventure and inspiration. From the grandeur of the villas to the intimate charm of its towns and the undeniable allure of its cuisine, the lake offers something for everyone.
For those over 50, Lake Como provides the perfect mix of relaxation and enrichment. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a culinary journey, or simply a chance to soak in the beauty of one of Italy’s most iconic regions, Lake Como won’t disappoint.
As Chris often says, “It’s never too late to fall in love with a place—or a plate of pasta.”Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!
