 |
| Villa del Balbianello |
Nestled on the western shore of Lake Como, two of Italy's most stunning villas, Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, are connected by a scenic lakeside trail. This easy-to-moderate hike offers visitors a chance to explore the beauty of Lake Como on foot, while also admiring the architectural and horticultural masterpieces of these two iconic villas.
The hike begins at Villa del Balbianello, a 17th-century villa with breathtaking gardens and panoramic views of the lake. The villa is known for its elegant gardens, which feature a variety of fountains, sculptures, and rare plants. Visitors can also explore the villa's interior, which is adorned with frescoes, stuccoes, and antique furniture.
After exploring Villa del Balbianello, the trail leads downhill to the lakeshore. From here, the trail winds along the lake, passing through small villages and offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
 |
| A restaurant at the village of Lenno |
About halfway along the hike, you will pass by the village of Lenno, where you can stop for a coffee or lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants.
 |
| Grand Hotel Tremezzo |
After Lenno, the trail continues along the lakeshore, eventually reaching Villa Carlotta. Villa Carlotta is another stunning villa with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the lake. The villa is known for its collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias, which bloom in all their glory during the spring months.
 |
| Villa Carlotta |
In addition to the gardens, Villa Carlotta also houses a museum with a collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can also explore the villa's interior, which is decorated with frescoes, stuccoes, and Murano glass chandeliers.
 |
| Eros and Psyche: One of the most famous sculptures displayed in the museum of Villa Carlotta |
The hike from Villa del Balbianello to Villa Carlotta takes about an hour and fifteen minutes to complete. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. However, there are a few sections where the trail is steep, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
This hike is a great way to experience the beauty of Lake Como and two of its most iconic villas. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery along the way.
No comments:
Post a Comment