Our lands
The land around Varenna and Lake Como is famous worldwide for its natural beauty, warm welcome, and magnificent villas by the water – favorite spots of celebrities and movie directors. How to not miss out during your stay in Varenna?
Varenna and its surroundings
Talking about Varenna, the first thing to mention is the Lovers’ Boardwalk, which begins a few steps away from Olivedo Hotel: a romantic path with an enchanting view that connects the pier to the town center, passing through breathtaking landscapes.
Another splendid panorama is the one that can be enjoyed from Vezio Castle, which has been overlooking the valley for over a century. Built for defensive purposes, it now hosts art shows and an interesting exhibition of the so-called Lariosauro, the mythological lake monster. Here you can also find the famous Ghosts of Stone, one of the most appreciated attractions of the area.
For those who are passionate about nature and villas, you cannot miss out on Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi, with their enchanting botanical gardens. For sports lovers, instead, the mountains offer hundreds of hikes, among which the famous Viandante trail, which connects Lecco to Colico in a four-stage route of approximately 50 km: suitable for everyone thanks to the easy path, it only requires proper gear.
The treasures of the Lake
Lake Como is known as the most beautiful lake in the world. This water mirror set in between the mountains, was loved by aristocrats who had some of the most luxurious villas in the world built on its shores: Villa Olmo with its Italian-style garden, Villa del Grumello with its splendid view, Villa Balbianello with its unique aura starred in movies such as Star Wars or Casino Royale, and Villa Melzi with its famous gardens. These are just some of the tens of sumptuous dwellings that embellish the lake shores. To admire them and to let your gaze flow along the natural beauties of the area, the best spot truly is the lake.
What about Bellagio, with its renowned cobblestone streets, elegant buildings, and refined boutiques, set in the exact spot where the lake divides into two branches? On the eastern branch, the city of Lecco was home to the writer and poet Alessandro Manzoni, who can be considered one of the fathers of the Italian language: the splendor of the “mountains rising from the waters”, from the famous work “The Bethrothed”.
A due mention is for the Orrido di Bellano, a wonderful natural gorge, carved 15 million years ago by water erosion, that has molded the rock in evocative shapes.
Lake Como is known as the most beautiful lake in the world. This water mirror set in between the mountains, was loved by aristocrats who had some of the most luxurious villas in the world built on its shores: Villa Olmo with its Italian-style garden, Villa del Grumello with its splendid view, Villa Balbianello with its unique aura starred in movies such as Star Wars or Casino Royale, and Villa Melzi with its famous gardens. These are just some of the tens of sumptuous dwellings that embellish the lake shores. To admire them and to let your gaze flow along the natural beauties of the area, the best spot truly is the lake.
What about Bellagio, with its renowned cobblestone streets, elegant buildings, and refined boutiques, set in the exact spot where the lake divides into two branches? On the eastern branch, the city of Lecco was home to the writer and poet Alessandro Manzoni, who can be considered one of the fathers of the Italian language: the splendor of the “mountains rising from the waters”, from the famous work “The Bethrothed”.
A due mention is for the Orrido di Bellano, a wonderful natural gorge, carved 15 million years ago by water erosion, that has molded the rock in evocative shapes.
One-of-a-kind experiences
To enrich your sojourn, there are several experiences offered by our territory that you cannot miss out on, and our personnel can help you plan them in the best way possible, even by booking the tickets for you or by reaching out to our service providers. For this reason, we ask you to let us know your wishes before your arrival at the hotel, so as to guarantee you a booked spot.
For example, it could be interesting to take part in a wonderful boat tour, to admire the beauties of the land from the middle of the lake: from this privileged spot, you will be able to discover the most famous villas and hidden natural spots. Do you want to enjoy lake waters in tranquility? Then a boat rental is what fits your needs. While there is nothing better than to ride the panoramic streets by the lake shore on top of one of the icons of Italian design, the Vespa: how about renting one?
Last but not least, if you can’t leave Italy without bringing back bits of knowledge regarding the delicacies that made Italian cuisine craved all over the world: the cooking classes hosted by Locanda Cavallino are for you.