The best of both worlds...
NICK DALTON compares Italy’s leading summer mountain retreats
LAKE Como and Lake Maggiore are Italy’s two greatest lakes and arguably the finest in Europe. But which is the best – and which should you pick for a perfect holiday? Both have their own character and yet both share that laid-back Mediterranean air amid spectacular Alpine peaks, sitting like twin sisters barely 30 miles apart. Temperatures are a balmy 20 degrees in May but can reach 30 degrees in the height of summer.
A specialist in the region is Lakes & Mountains by TUI which offers everything from properties set on hillsides to those on the water’s edge, many with open-air pools.
Como
A holiday hotspot for aristocrats since Roman times and still a place of exquisite gardens, historic villas and dramatic views.
The lake is 20 miles long and said to be one of the deepest in Europe. Switzerland is just around the corner from the north shore and you can cross the border on a day trip. The hillsides and lakefront are dotted with lovely villages, all linked by paths and bicycle trails.
Swim from Menaggio’s shingle beaches and dine out on missoltino (salted, sun-dried fish) and homemade olive oil at one of the many waterfront restaurants around the lake, not least in the beautiful town of Como itself.
Visit the remains of a medieval fortress in Tremezzo, with its vibrant gardens and mountain walking trails surrounded by olive and orange groves, or head to the city of Bergamo and walk the Venetian walls.
The town of Varenna has transport links with nearby Milan while boats cross the lake.
Maggiore
Pretty as a picture in May and June when it is awash with wildflowers and the colourful villages glow in the early summer sun.
Take the Mottarone cable car in Stresa to enjoy one of the most spectacular vistas in Italy – the first stage reaches Alpine gardens and woodland walks, the second takes you close to the summit where there are 360-degree views across seven lakes. While Stresa is lively and neighbouring Baveno is simpler and quieter, both have cobbled streets and pavement cafes. And do not miss the Wednesday market in Luino.
Visit the doll and toy collection at Rocca di Angera and the porcelain and ceramics of the Museo Internazionale Design Ceramico or head off on a boat trip to the Borromean Islands, with its exotic enclaves of grand palazzos, botanical gardens and restaurants.
Whichever lake you choose, it will have everything you could hope for. INFORMATION: Lakes & Mountains with TUI (020 3636 1618/tui.co.uk) offers holidays from £496pp (two sharing) for seven nights, B&B, at Hotel Boston, Stresa, Lake Maggiore, departing May 9. Includes flights from Luton.