Varenna

Varenna is a fishing village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, in the province of Lecco, Lombardy. Its steep lanes, stone stairways and colourful houses descend directly to the water, forming a landscape typical of this part of northern Italy. Among the main sights are Villa Monastero, a former monastery converted into a villa with terraced gardens overlooking the lake, and Villa Cipressi with its cypress-lined promenade, known as the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, which runs along the shore offering open views of the surrounding mountains. Vezio Castle, perched on a hill above the village, adds a further vantage point over the lake. Varenna has its own railway station and a ferry landing, making it easy to reach Bellagio, Menaggio or Como by boat. The atmosphere remains quiet, well suited to strolling along the lakefront, exploring small squares and stopping at café terraces. The lake's tempering effect on the climate supports lush vegetation, particularly evident in the gardens of the historic villas.