I'm so enjoying all this wonderful information you kind folks are giving out, I thought I'd ask one more whilst you're listening! We will be heading up to the Lakes for probably 2 nights after the Cinque Terra stay. Does anyone have any suggestions for relatively inexpensive accomadation, as the hostel doesn't have double rooms for hubby and I. Is there only one hostel? What about personal B&B's as in the Cinque Terra, do they have them at the Lakes too? Is this more the kyaking and hiking place... Any real live experiences greatfully accepted... With thanks... Debbie Lee........

Hi again, actually, I should have said any good inexpensive hotels here, as it's probably not hostel country. Maybe B&B's...any ideas? Any advice appreciated! DLC...

<BR>Hi Debbie Lee, <BR>Look up Rick Steves' book Italy 2000; his section on Lake Como is great. I followed his advice and stayed in small town Varenna about an hour by train from Milano. Stay in the hotel bythe ferry; was great and relatively inexpensive!

Hi Paul: <BR>What was the name of the hotel in Varenna? I have a trip planned for June. <BR>Thx, Nic

Prettiest place on Lake Como is Bellagio, right at the tip of the land that divides the two south forks of the lake. The drive up from Como is also spectacular. The Hotel Suisse couldn't be better located and is very reasonable. For a damp,musty and memorable experience check out Tony's wine cellar, not the greatest high quality selection, but Tony is a real character. The Ferry departs across the street from the Hotel Suisse, and will take you to Como, Varennes, etc. Book in advance and ask for one of the front rooms.

Although we have not been there before, we are booked next month at the Grand Hotel Imperiale, room on the lake, king bed, and $148/night Check it out on the Best Western site on the web. It's next door to the Villa Este, but at an economical price. We/you can always go next door for a drink!

The hotel by the ferry in Varenna is Albergo Olivedo. Do a search on Varenna or A.O. and you will find the phone number and fax. We loved staying there- beautiful views and delicious food- all very inexpensive. See Rick Steves or Karen Brown.

Deb, On the west shore at Mennagio is <BR>a nice 3 star called the Bellavista you <BR>can get for about $80. Good location <BR>near the ferry to Bellagio.

<BR>We also stayed in Varenna at the same hotel and loved it. The woman's name is Laura who runs it and she is great. It is relatively inexpensive, but we went in March.