Travel Tales from Italy: Lake Como

Lake Como is perfectly situated at the foot of the Alps and about an hour train ride north of Milan.  The scene outside of the left window as we arrived took my breath away.  It was the beginning of May and the sun was shining on the top of the snow covered mountains just beyond the lake.  No wonder Como is the choice location for George Clooney to have property among many other rich and famous.

Alex and I had three days to explore several small villages around the middle of the lake: we stayed in Varenna and Bellagio but, thanks to the ferries that run all day, were able to enjoy several other nearby towns, as well. 

Map of Lake Como

Some highlights of the Lake Como trip include our hike to the castle ruins...

At the top!



Tours of two villas on the lake: Villa Carlotta (famous for its amazing gardens) and Villa Barbianello (Alex's favorite)...

A view from Villa Carlotta's balcony

Alex at Villa Barbianello

Villa Barbianelo



And the food.  When you're in Italy, a favorite is always the food :)  Here's the view from our first dinner in Varenna...

One of my absolute favorite experiences of our trip was the Italian cooking class that Alex and I participated in on my birthday.  Moreno is a very well-known chef on the lake who offers cooking classes during the day instead of serving lunch at his restaurant.  Alex and I were picked up by Moreno, himself, and enjoyed a full day of Italian cooking and eating, of course.  We learned to cook a veal tenderloin, a special potato gratin dish, homemade pasta sauce and even fresh pasta!

Chef Moreno



Pasta-making attempt

Chef Moreno cooking class graduates :)

What a special trip it was!  Thank you, Italy, for always being a good time!

Love from Luxembourg,
Melanie