Lake Como is 50 km long and is the deepest lake in Europe (410 meters). The lake is famous for its mild climate (it's the most northern point where olive groves are commercially grown). The first human settlement can be traced back to 4500BC but it was not until 1000BC that civilization truly took hold in the area. By 59BC is was a major trade and tourism area. In more recent times, international nobility have been building villas along these shores since the 15th century. The rest of us discovered Lake Como in the early 1900's and now most of the villages and towns along the shoreline depend totally on tourism for their existence.
After reading up on Lake Como we decided to focus our limited time here on three villages (Varenna, Menaggio and Bellagio). Lake Como has a very efficient and effective ferry boat system that runs like a bus service between all the villages.
Today its hot (32c), humid and hazy as we head out to explore Varenna. The 20 minute walk from our apartment is flat and runs along the lake but I was drenched by the time we arrived so we headed for a shady, waterfront cafe to cool down before we started exploring.
The ancient town of Varenna is on a point jutting into Lake Como with Mt. San Defendente at its back and has steep, narrow streets which fan out from the central piazza down to the waterfront. Although its origins are older, Varonna became firmly established as a viable town in 1169 and continues to flourish as one of the most popular destinations on Lake Como. We spent most of our time exploring the waterfront as it was more interesting and much cooler.
To be continued....
Looking at Varenna as we take the lakefront walk from Fiumelatte
Rita checking out the Varenna guide book in the shade at a waterfront cafe
Part of the waterfront walkway with its many shops and cafes
One of the many narrow, steep streets leading from the waterfront to the central piazza
The town of Varenna from the waters of Lake Como
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