DISCOVERING BELLAGIO: places not to be missed

The places not to be missed if you visit the village of Bellagio.

The town of Bellagio at the head of the central promontory of Lake Como is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations both in the lake and in the entire world.

Renowned holiday destination appreciated by both Italian and foreign tourists, its beauty is given by the panoramic view that can be appreciated and the particularity of the buildings that make this village very quaint and picturesque.

If you visit the picturesque village, even in the day, there are places not to be missed, which show all the charm of Bellagio, not surprisingly nicknamed “the Pearl of Lake Como”.

THE VILLAGE

Walking around Bellagio is definitely the best option to capture all the essence of this village.

The historic center is characterized by a labyrinth of narrow streets and stairways, at the foot of many colorful houses.

Walking you can see the many craft shops that sell local and typical products, different boutiques and of course the excellent restaurants and bars.

Very beautiful is the walk along the lake, from which you can enjoy a splendid view of the village and the surrounding lake. Along the way there are numerous benches that overlook the lake in order to enjoy full and peaceful views of the surrounding area.

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THE VILLAS

Bellagio, like the rest of Lake Como, is dotted with sumptuous villas and splendid residences.

Among these there are two in particular that are worthy of note, especially because of their beautiful gardens:

VILLA SERBELLONI

This villa boasts an ancient history, dating back to 1533 when it was owned by the Sfondrati family and then passed to Count Alessandro Serbelloni who dedicated his soul and body to this. After numerous changes of owners and management, it was bought by Princess Ella Walker who left it as a legacy to the Rockefeller Foundation.

Worthy of note are the magnificent gardens of the Villa, an evocative tangle of paths immersed in native and exotic vegetation, embellished by terraces and statues.

Being located on a promontory you can also enjoy an excellent panoramic view.

Admission is not free, so to check timetables and prices it is advisable to visit the website.

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VILLA MELZI

Villa Melzi was designed by architect Giocondo Albertonelli in 1808, commissioned by Francesco Melzi d’Eril and completed in 1810.

The park is the first example of an English garden on Lake Como. It was created on different levels to give the impression that it was larger and is dotted with Egyptian, Etruscan-Roman, Renaissance and neoclassical sculptures.
There is also an idyllic Japanese-style pond.

Admission is not free so it is advisable to view the website for timetables and prices.

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PUNTA SPARTIVENTO

Punta Spartivento is definitely a must see of Bellagio.

Also called “the Navel of Lake Como” is located exactly in the center, in the point that is exactly the watershed between the two branches of the lake, that of Lecco and that of Como.
Needless to say, from this strategic point you can enjoy an unparalleled panoramic view, which sweeps over the two branches to the mountains behind, absolutely not to be missed.
The view can also be enjoyed from one of the two beaches present here with a small park, great for organizing picnics on hot and sunny days.

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