Lake Como, just 15 mins by train north of Milan, is the shape of an upside down Y on the map. We took a bus from Como, at the western foot, up the shoreline of the western leg, to Bellagio, an idyllic destination in the centre and where one can view each leg and the body of Lake Como with just a short walk east, west or north.

The drive to Bellagio took in breathtaking scenes of dark forested mountains and pastel coloured villages tumbling down to the deep navy blue lake.

"Bellagio's sapphire-blue harbour, maze of stone stair-cases and colourful shuttered buildings are truly enchanting." LP

Small fishing villages are within walking distance of the main town of Bellagio, the views of distant mountains in varying shades of blue from every vantage point. We spent one delightful day walking to Pescallo, Loppia and San Giovanni, with always a tempting cafe for stops along the way. There are plenty of ferry rides to towns around and across the lake and enchanting villas with superb gardens and vistas, open to the public.