LizMuss

Greetings wise Forum Universe. I am going to be staying in Varenna for 5 nights in late March before heading to Florence for a week. I would love suggestions based on the many villages I want to see while on the lake. Largely- what is feasible in one day? Are there villages that make sense to group together? I really don't want to be in queues to see villas. Their gardens, perhaps. But mainly I want to wander cobblestones side streets, soak up ambiance, and stop to stare at the lake.

I am interested in Argegno, Menaggio, Bellagio, Lenno, Tremezzo. Will definitely do the Castelo above Varenna. And have seen some good restaurants via TripAdvisor in Bellano. Since that's on the Varenna side of the lake, I can taxi- which is great. I had trouble figuring out ferry until I read that the car ferries run later. However, I see that they still don't run past 8:00 p.m., which is unfortunate for dining out in other villages. Perhaps I misunderstood- but that's what it looked like to me. Any tips/ strategy much appreciated. (Have also considered going to east side of Lake Lugano. If any one has visited that side of Lake Lugano and has suggestions, I welcome them!)

Jean

The ferries will revert to spring schedules starting March 26th. How much you can do/see in a day, what sightseeing you could combine, and where you could have dinner and still return to Varenna, all depend on the timetables.

Considering most of your sightseeing list is on the western shore of the lake, you might consider staying on that side rather than in Varenna. Your options for dinner would be numerous, and there is bus service that you could use in addition to the ferries. There is bus service from Menaggio to several points on Lake Lugano.

http://www.sptlinea.it/content/en/in...-network-times

I doubt you'll find any queues at the villas and gardens in late March.

bvlenci

We didn't see any lines to get into villas in May, when we were on Lake Como. I can't imagine that there would be lines in March. The gardens we saw were full of azaleas and rhododendrons. They were mostly finished blooming when we were there; I don't know if they're in full bloom in late March, but I would think some would be blooming.

We've had an unusually cold winter, so everything here (in Le Marche) is behind. I was talking the other day to a cousin in Northern Ireland, and she said the daffodils are blooming there. I've only seen a few here, in very sheltered places. I can't believe they're later here than in Ireland!

Dukey1

Having been there I really think you might bet a LOT more useful information if you were wiling to be more specific about some of your "interets."

For example, what is it about Menaggio that attracts you in the first place and the same goes for Tremezzo. Bellagio I can understand a bit more if only because it has received so much publicity buzz over the years but perhaps you aren't aware of what is in and not in some of these places.

Menaggio is the largest of the "towns" or "villages" if you prefer and it is hardly a small village. Other than the walk along the lakefront (and the roses may not be in bloom that early in the year) I'm not sure why you would even want to go there unless it is simply to explore a little.

I am not trying to dissuade you at all even though IMO that time of year is not the best for a visit either scenery or activity wise but that's subjective, obviously.

LizMuss

Jean- thanks! I wondered why I saw ferry schedule through March 24, then nothing. I arrive on 25th, so I'm glad that later ferry options are likely. Point well taken regarding west side of lake. I chose Varenna due to train station; Rick Steves recommendation; and it looked like it had enough to do for me to not bore on mornings and evenings there since I am traveling solo. I will check out the bus schedule to Lake Lugano and see what the options are.

bvlenci- Good to hear about the fact things may be blooming. Originally I thought to not do Lake Como given time of year, but ultimately decided to in spite of cooler weather. Interesting your winter has been cool. East central coast of US it's been very mild. That is strange that things are blooming in Ireland!

Dukey1- My interest is primarily exploring. I like views and scenery, finding shops and eateries, gardens, maybe some churches. Obviously no shortage of that anywhere on the lake. Tremezzina has most of the villas, yes? People seem to have mixed feelings about Bellagio- but since it is a ferry stop near Varenna - might as well wander and see it a bit. Menaggio is often mentioned as one of the main ones 'to see' on websites and in forum chatter. That's why I thought I would check it out.

luvtotravel

LizMuss, I was in Varenna in May 2006. At that time, it seemed to be before the crowded season. IMO, this is an area to slow down and not rush to "see" things. You may check out my journal/photos of that trip at http://travelswithdiane.homestead.co...5LakeComo.html, maybe it will give you an idea of what is in/near Varenna. Have a great trip.

LizMuss

luvtotravel- Thanks for sharing your journal. So funny you saw Rick Steves twice! Seeing your photos confirms that I am glad I chose Varenna as my place to stay.

HappyTrvlr

You will visit Lenno to access Villa Balabianello. It is a short walk out to a point for the villa or there may be water taxis available. It is a stunning property with beautiful views. You can also have a nice lunch in Lenno.
Menaggio is good for a walk along the lakefront and for transportation options.
Villa Carlotta is on western side of lake. There are also nice gardens along the water both in Varenna and Bellagio.