Italy, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, has always been on our travel bucket list. This year, my wife and I decided to embark on an unforgettable journey through Milan to the enchanting Lake Como.
From picturesque villages to breathtaking hiking trails, our itinerary promised a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of classic Italy.
Chapter Trail
Day 1 to Day 2: Welcome to Como
Our adventure began with eager anticipation as we touched down at Milan airport.
A private transfer whisked us away to Torno, a charming village nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Como. Our hotel, with its panoramic views of the glistening waters, provided the perfect backdrop for our Italian escapade. As we settled into our cozy accommodation, the serene beauty of the lake immediately captivated us, setting the stage for the adventures to come.
The following day, we eagerly laced up our hiking boots and embarked on a journey up Monte Piatto. The trail, winding through Torno’s twisting alleys, offered glimpses of peach terraces, cascading waterfalls, and ancient stone-carved tombs.
With each step, the views of the lake grew more enchanting, inspiring us to press onward. After a rewarding ascent, we paused to drink in the breathtaking panorama before a leisurely descent back to Torno, where a delicious dinner awaited us.
Day 3: Discovering Como
A short ferry ride transported us to the historic city of Como, where centuries of history and culture awaited exploration. We strolled through the charming cobblestone streets, marveling at the architectural wonders that adorned the cityscape.
The magnificent Duomo, with its intricate facade and towering spires, left us in awe of Italy’s rich artistic heritage. As we wandered further, we discovered hidden gems around every corner, from beautiful Romanesque churches to medieval town walls steeped in history.
After a delightful morning of exploration, we ascended the hills to Brunate via cable car, eager to take in the panoramic views from above.
From this vantage point, Como lay spread out before us like a vibrant tapestry, its azure waters framed by lush greenery and distant mountains. After soaking in the breathtaking vistas, we embarked on a leisurely walk back to Torno, tracing a scenic path through rolling hills and picturesque villages.
Day 4: Conquering San Primo Mount
Our next adventure beckoned from the rugged peaks of the Natural Park Mt. S. Primo, where we set out to conquer the majestic San Primo Mount.
The trail, winding through dense forests and alpine meadows, offered sweeping views of the lake and the towering Grigne massif in the distance. As we ascended higher, the air grew crisp and invigorating, filling our lungs with the scent of pine and wildflowers.
With each step, we felt a profound sense of connection to the natural world, awed by the sheer beauty that surrounded us. Along the way, we encountered hidden springs, cascading waterfalls, and a myriad of flora and fauna, each adding to the magic of the journey. After a challenging but rewarding hike, we descended to Bellagio, where a warm welcome and comfortable accommodations awaited us.
Day 5: Enchanting Bellagio
Bellagio greeted us with its timeless charm and breathtaking beauty, beckoning us to explore its hidden corners and winding alleyways.
We set out to discover the village’s picturesque promenade, where colorful buildings reflected in the shimmering waters of the lake. Stepped trails led us to hillside villages adorned with ancient churches and rustic cottages, each offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and heritage.
After a morning of exploration, we opted for an exclusive boat tour, eager to experience the lake’s beauty from a different perspective. Gliding across the pristine waters, we marveled at the opulent villas and grand estates that lined the shoreline, each a testament to the area’s storied past. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the lake, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such splendor.
Day 6: Romantic Varenna
A ferry ride transported us to the idyllic village of Varenna, renowned for its romantic ambiance and picturesque setting. We set out to explore the “Sentiero del Viandante,” a scenic trail that wound its way along the eastern shore of the lake. Passing through terraced olive groves and quaint villages, we felt a sense of tranquility and serenity wash over us, as if stepping back in time to a simpler era.
As we meandered along the trail, we were treated to breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, each more captivating than the last. Along the way, we encountered friendly locals, who greeted us with warm smiles and stories of life by the lake. After a leisurely hike, we returned to Bellagio, where an evening of wine tasting awaited us, offering the perfect opportunity to savor the popular Italian cuisine.
Day 7: Exploring Benedetto Abbey
Our final day of adventure took us on a journey to the ancient Benedetto Abbey, hidden amidst the lush woodlands near Lenno.
Following the Via Crucis to the Madonna del Soccorso, we marveled at the abbey’s timeless beauty and spiritual significance. Surrounded by towering trees and serene silence, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence and awe in the presence of such ancient majesty.
As we explored the abbey’s cloisters and chapels, we were struck by the intricate details and centuries of history etched into every stone. Each step revealed new wonders, from hidden frescoes to secret passageways, each a testament to the abbey’s enduring legacy. As the sun began to set, casting a soft glow over the landscape, we lingered a while longer, reluctant to leave this sacred sanctuary behind.
Day 8: Departure
As our incredible journey came to an end, we bid farewell to Bellagio, thanked our local travel expert, and embarked on a private transfer to Milan airport. As we reflected on our 8 days of adventure, we were filled with gratitude for the memories we had created and the experiences we had shared. Italy had captured our hearts in ways we never imagined, leaving us longing to return and explore more of its wonders in the years to come.
Conclusion
Our 8-day itinerary through Milan to Lake Como was a journey of discovery, adventure, and romance, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the beauty and charm of northern Italy.
From the historic streets of Como to the tranquil shores of Bellagio, each day brought new adventures and unforgettable experiences, leaving us with memories to last a lifetime. Italy had cast its spell upon us, and we couldn’t wait to return and explore more of its timeless treasures. Grazie mille, Italia! Until we meet again.
Check out the free family itinerary to Italy from Baboo Travel below:
Plan your next dream trip with one of our hand-picked, highly experienced, licensed, and insured Local In-destination Experts!
