Has anyone driven from Como to Menaggio? I am going to Menaggio for a few days and I'm not sure if I should take a boat or drive. I've made the drive from Como to Belaggio but will never do it again. I know the boat is supposed to be great but I wasn't sure about taking it since we'll have luggage.
I'm just wondering if the drive to Menaggio is as winding and steep as the one to Belaggio.

Sandiedog,

The drive from Como to Menaggio, along the western shore of the lake is somewhat winding at times, but not at all steep. Most of that highway, as I recall, is relatively flat. It is a little narrow and congested in spots.

The day of the week and time of year will make a difference as to the amount of traffic along the western-shore road.

A car will give you the flexibility to stop en route at any towns/villages that interest you. Of course, you can always take the boat from Menaggio back down along the lake to see the sites, whether you drive or elect to take the boat up from Como.

Steep and winding is how I would classify the road from Menaggio over the mountain to Lugano.

On your previous trip, had you taken the road to Varenna (along the eastern shore of the lake)and then connected onto the car ferry to Bellagio, I believe you would have enjoyed the drive and not been intimidated by road conditions.

In fact, you can take this route and get the car ferry to Menaggio from Varenna as well.

One route up, and the other route back would give you two separate views of the lake and towns along the shores.

My first consideration would be, do what best fits your "comfort level".

Super easy compared to Como to Bellagio. we just did this trip on Saturday and it was a breeze.
Have a great time.

There are also buses between Menaggio and Como every 60 minutes roughly. Travel time is 70 minutes.