This thread makes me want to go back to the lakes this summer...

Can anyone tell me anything about the village of Nesso? Will we find nice restaurants there, or will we need to go to Bellagio or Como?

Bellagio is much closer than Como. Como quite frankly does not have a good reputation for restaurants. But if you are in Como I would suggest the following:-
1. Navedano - http://www.ristorantenavedano.it/ - you need a car or taxi. Beautiful place with wonderful service and food. A bit out of the centre.
2. OSTERIA LA TANA DEI PESCATORI Via Volta 41 - wonderful fish which arrive from Milan every day. Everything is display on ice when you walk in. The only problem is that they are so busy they sometimes serve dishes when they are ready rather than respecting what has been ordered at the table. You have to be rigid on this. If your dish arrives before your friends, send it back and insist that all dishes arrive at the same time.
3. A simple place but I have always eaten well - http://www.hotelmarcos.it/ENL'hotel.htm
4. Just outside Como - in Cernobbio - http://www.terzocrotto.it/eng/restaurant.html

I'm looking at a rental in Nesso, and yes we will have a car.

Terzo Crotto looks lovely but it's past Como on the other side of the lake from Nesso.

Navedano looks absolutely wonderful, but maybe a little fancier than we want on this trip.

Anyone know anything about restaurants in Nesso and the villages/towns close by?

Lots and lots of Nesso info here http://www.lakecomoapartment.com/

The Tre Rose is a lovely restaurant in Nesso with great views...http://bit.ly/h6TgyH

There are a couple of other cafes and restaurants in Nesso itself, but it's a small place. The Aurora in Lezzeno is really nice, and there are a a few nice places round the harbour in Torno.

PS We've been to Nesso a lot and really like it....small place and the people there are friendly.... The link I sent you is the apartment we stay in....
It's nice to get away from all the crowds when you've been out for the day....

Look into Hotel Cannero in Cannero Riviera on Lake Maggiore. It is our favorite hotel. Right in front is a boat dock. The rooms and the food are great, but the service is exceptional.

Hi all

Thanks so much for all the help, I am narrowing this down.

At Lake Como we want to stay in a 2BR 2 BA apartment (sensational views, access to town ferries, nice restaurants, but need parking for a car)

At Lake Maggiore, we want a hotel (sensational views) 3-4 star?

Question ~ which towns at both Lakes have the best views of the Alps beyond the Lake Mountains?

Again, thanks SO much for all your help!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lake Maggiore-Town? Stresa, Hotel w/a view? La Palma

Lake Como, look at bobthenavigators trip report from 2010.