Lake Como, Switzerland

I was 16 years old when I visited Lake Como, Switzerland.

That was over *cough, cough* a lot of years ago, but it’s a place that instantly carved itself into my heart and I vowed before leaving to return someday.  I have traveled to many places since then, and Lake Como remains one of my favorite locations on Earth.

Lake Como is located between Milan and Switzerland and my visit there was a short day trip in the middle of an Italian vacation.  We made our way to the town of Como from Milan and spent time shopping in the village before touring the lake itself.

When I close my eyes and picture the town of Como, the first thing that comes to mind is how incredibly clean it was.  The cobblestone streets lining the chateau style shops resembled a Disney theme park moments before opening.  I was fascinated by the lack of litter or pollution.

Next to the pristine streets, the other most memorable part of my trip to Lake Como was the hospitality of its people.  Everyone was overwhelmingly friendly, in three or four languages.  They were patient and kind and generous and made an American teenage girl feel very optimistic about the great big world.

But, I suppose, that’s all ambiance.

The reason most people visit Lake Como, Switzerland is to tour the lake itself.  There are guided boat tours of the lake that allow you to enjoy not only the waters, but the magnificent homes that surround the lake.  Many major celebrities, including George Clooney, have villas on the lake and a knowledgeable guide will be able to tell you who owns what during your tour.

Lake Como is a glacier lake and the temperature is typically too cold for swimming.  Most visitors to the lake are going to be on it and look at it, rather than be in it.  Some of the hotels around the lake even have floating pools on top of the lake for guests to enjoy.

Lake Como is an excellent sight seeing destination.  From the extravagant villas to the lush greenery, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world to visit.  You’ll come away with breathtaking photographs and memories to last you… oh.. say… roughly 15 years.

Photo courtesy of Stan Shebs.