Start above the city. The Como Brunate funicular lifts you from the waterfront to a balcony of lights and quiet air. It runs daily and in the current timetable operates from early morning to 10.30pm in the Winter but later in the Summer with frequent departures, which makes a dusk ride easy to plan. The seven minute climb is simple and cinematic. Check the official schedule before you go and time the return for aperitivo.

Back at water level you can choose altitude without the climb. Terrazza 241, the rooftop bar and restaurant at Hilton Lake Como, frames the basin in glass and keeps service going year round. It is a contemporary room with signature cocktails and an easy local to visitor mix. The view is a show in itself.

For an aperitivo at street pace, slip into the historic centre. Enoteca Da Gigi has been pouring wine for generations and feels like a small club for people who care about bottles more than buzz. Order by the glass and settle in among regulars.

Cocktails are where Como has raised its game. Fresco Cocktail Shop helped pull the city into modern mixology and still treats every drink with craft. It is also a fixture of Como Lake Cocktail Week, a week that confirms what regulars already know: Como now has a conversation around drinks, not only a scene.

Add Hemingway Cocktail Bar to that map. A landmark in the historic centre that has been revived in recent years, Hemingway leans into warm lighting, a classic room and a list that rewards those who like their drinks precise rather than fussy.

On warm nights the lake becomes the room. Lido Villa Olmo is a simple pleasure with a beach bar, long spritzes and a cross section of the city after work. It is not about velvet ropes. It is about lingering by the water and letting the evening run long.

Then there is a ceremony. After dark the Teatro Sociale di Como lifts the tone from casual to formal with a season that balances opera and concerts under AsLiCo. The 2025 to 2026 programme is titled Fairplay in a nod to sport ahead of Milano Cortina. The theatre’s PrimaGiovani Under 30 nights add an aftershow with live music and drinks, which pulls a younger crowd into the ritual. Book early for headline nights and special appearances.

Dinner can land anywhere in this sequence. Como rewards restraint. Osteria del Gallo, tucked into the medieval lanes, is a reliable shorthand for local appetite. Small room. Honest cooking. A proper bottle opened without theatre. On cool nights it is lake fish and polenta. When the air is soft it is lighter plates and a walk back toward the water.

What sets Como apart is the refusal to rush. You can ride the funicular at dusk, take a rooftop negroni, slide into a glass at a counter bar, then cross the square for an aria, and nothing feels forced. Even the cocktail week reads less like a takeover than a conversation along the shore, with bartenders sharing ideas and guests trading notes while the lake holds the backdrop.

Plan an evening as a pairing. Funicular and late table. Roof first then a quiet pour in the old town. On hot days, swim and a spritz at the lido, then a midnight passeggiata. The details matter. Check the funicular timetable on the official page for last runs. Browse the Teatro Sociale calendar for opera and concert dates and the Under 30 nights. These small checks keep the night smooth.

The journey itself is part of the experience. As the funicular climbs through gardens and past elegant villas, Como unfolds beneath you. The lake stretches out in both directions, the Alps rise in the distance, and if you look carefully, you’ll spot the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia tucked into the landscape below. On match days, the stadium comes alive in a way that’s uniquely visible from Brunate. You can see the crowds gathering, the colours of the supporters, and when the wind is right, the roar of the fans carries up the mountain, a distant but unmistakable reminder of the passion that defines Como 1907.

Brunate has long been known as the “Balcony of Lake Como,” and the nickname is well earned. From the village’s various viewpoints, particularly the lighthouse at Faro Voltiano, you can take in panoramic views that stretch from the Swiss Alps to the Lombard plains. The lighthouse itself has a fascinating history. First proposed in 1899 by Saint Don Luigi Guanella as a tribute to Alessandro Volta, the great scientist who invented the battery, it wasn’t until 1927, marking the centenary of Volta’s death, that the permanent structure was finally built. Standing 99 meters high at 909 meters above water level, its intermittent red, white, and green lights can be seen from 40 kilometres away. Inside, a winding staircase of 140 steps leads to two balconies offering breathtaking panoramas. The lighthouse is open from April to October, every day except Wednesdays and in bad weather.

But Brunate is more than just a viewpoint. The village’s narrow, sloping streets tell stories of its transformation from a small medieval rural settlement into a fashionable holiday centre for wealthy Milanese families in the 1800s. Until the early 19th century, Brunate remained isolated from Como below. It was only in 1817 that the Via delle Scalette was built—a muletrack of exactly 1,630 steps connecting the two. Today, elegant Art Nouveau villas stand alongside historic buildings, and hidden courtyards reveal glimpses of a quieter time.

When you arrive at the top of the funicular, one of the first places you’ll encounter is Capolinea Bistrot, a Como4Como touchpoint that has become much more than just a place to eat and drink. Owner Elena Moroni relocated from Milan to Brunate, drawn by the incredible opportunities the Como area presented. “Our concept of gastronomy revolves around utilising high-quality local ingredients,” she explains. “When you factor in the breathtaking view of Como from our location, something truly special is created.”

What makes Capolinea Bistrot particularly special for Como 1907 supporters is its role as a gathering place where football and community intersect. The bistrot stocks official club merchandise, making it easy to pick up a memento of your visit. But it’s the atmosphere on match days that truly sets it apart. “An air of Como1907 permeates Brunate,” Moroni says. “Historical fans sit at the bar, sharing tales of the club’s history with tourists, accompanied by the echoes of chants from the Sinigaglia stadium during home games. On some days, an atmosphere of enthusiasm envelops everyone in a shared sense of unity.”

From various points in the village, you can actually catch glimpses of the match being played at the Sinigaglia. It’s not quite the same as being in the stands, but there’s something special about watching from above, hearing the crowd’s reactions echo up the mountainside, and feeling connected to the action even from a distance.

At the centre of Brunate’s hospitality scene is Hotel Paradiso, a family-run establishment, led by CEO and founder Roberto Cattaneo, deeply rooted in the traditions of the area while constantly evolving to offer guests something authentic and memorable. The hotel combines comfortable accommodation with a genuine commitment to showcasing the best of the region, from its cuisine to its cultural heritage.

Hotel Paradiso manages two exceptional dining venues that capture different sides of Brunate’s culinary identity. M’ama Gina offers refined dining with a terrace that overlooks the lake, a setting where the food is matched only by the view. Here, the menu celebrates local ingredients and traditional recipes reimagined with a modern touch. For a more rustic experience, the hotel’s polenteria serves up hearty, traditional dishes centred around polenta, the cornerstone of Lombard mountain cuisine. It’s comfort food at its finest, prepared with care and served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Hotel Paradiso also offers hands-on cooking classes for those who want to dive deeper into the region’s culinary traditions, giving you the chance to learn authentic recipes with local ingredients and techniques passed down through generations. Beyond food, the hotel has established Smart Family Connection, an independent cultural association presided by Mario Franchi, which organizes events and initiatives that bring the community together while celebrating Como’s rich cultural heritage.

HThe hotel is also partnering with Como 1907 to develop unique experiences for fans and visitors. Among the most exciting is a Vespa tour that will take you through the winding roads around Brunate and the surrounding hills, offering a thrilling way to explore the area while soaking in those famous views. These tours are being designed to coincide with match days, creating a full day of experiences that combine the excitement of Como football with the beauty and culture of the region.

Beyond the football connection and hospitality offerings, Brunate rewards those who take the time to explore. The baroque Chiesa di Sant’Andrea Apostolo, upgraded to parish status in 1654 and restructured between 1927 and 1932, features a faded pink exterior and a giant bell tower that dominates the village skyline. Inside, you’ll find 16th-century frescoes by Como painters and memorial tablets honouring Blessed Maddalena, Saint Guglielma, Alessandro Volta, and the brothers Pietro and Maurizio Monti.

One of Brunate’s more unusual attractions is the Campari Fountain, designed by sculptor Giuseppe Gronghi in 1935. It’s one of only three surviving fountains from a series of thirty commissioned by the Campari company as three-dimensional advertising elements. Located on Via Roma near the funicular’s lower exit, the fountain features a bas-relief with grotesque elements from which three sources flow. It’s worth a stop for a photograph, though, as locals joke, it’s a shame that only water flows out.

For those who want to venture beyond the village centre, Brunate serves as a starting point for numerous hiking routes. The historic Regia Road, a route of about 35 kilometres connecting Como-Brunate to Bellagio, has probable pre-Roman origins and was definitively mapped in the 1721 Theresian Land Register. Today, it offers a spectacular multi-day hiking option. Closer to Brunate, paths lead to Monte Boletto and Monte Bolettone, offering spectacular views. From here also begins the ridge of the Larian Triangle, a splendid high-altitude route that connects Brunate to Bellagio. Walking paths wind through forests and past hidden viewpoints, and in spring and summer, the hillsides are covered in wildflowers. In autumn, the forests turn gold and red.

The funicular itself is a piece of living history. Built in just 18 months and inaugurated on November 11, 1894, it was an engineering marvel of its time. With a maximum gradient of 55 percent and a height difference of approximately 500 meters across its 1,084 meters of rail, the journey takes about six to seven minutes. The locals have even given the little train an affectionate nickname: “Brucone,” a playful combination of Brunate and Como.

Today, the funicular runs regularly between 6:00 and 22:30, with some variations between weekdays and holidays, making Brunate an easy addition to any visit to Como. Whether you’re in town for a match, a weekend getaway, or a longer stay, the seven-minute ride up the mountain opens up a different side of the region.

Brunate works as a half-day excursion or a full-day out. You can ride up in the morning, stop at Capolinea Bistrot for a coffee and browse the Como merchandise, have lunch at M’ama Gina or the polenteria, take a walk through the village or along one of the trails to the Campari Fountain or the lighthouse, and be back in Como by afternoon. Or you can make it a longer experience, staying at Hotel Paradiso, taking a cooking class, joining a vespa tour, hiking a section of the historic Regia Road, and settling into the rhythm of mountain life.

For Como 1907 fans, Brunate offers something unique: a way to combine match day with a broader experience of the region. Start your day with the funicular ride, explore the village, meet fellow supporters at Capolinea Bistrot, where you can hear stories from historical fans about the club’s rich history, have lunch with a view, then head down to the stadium for the match. Or reverse it: catch the game, then escape to Brunate for dinner and a night in the mountains, where you can still hear the echoes of the crowd but enjoy the peace of being above it all.

What makes Brunate special isn’t any single attraction. It’s the combination of history and hospitality, views and village life, tradition and innovation. It’s the way Hotel Paradiso and Capolinea Bistrot have created experiences that feel both authentic and welcoming. It’s the funicular that makes it all accessible. And it’s the connection to Como below, visible and audible, that reminds you you’re not far from the action even when you’re surrounded by mountains and sky.

Brunate is waiting, just seven minutes above Como. The funicular departs regularly from the lakeside station. The views are guaranteed. The hospitality is genuine. And whether you’re a football fan looking to connect with fellow supporters, a food lover seeking authentic Lombard cuisine, a history enthusiast drawn to Art Nouveau villas and ancient churches, a hiker ready to explore historic mountain routes, or simply someone looking for a different perspective on Lake Como, you’ll find something here that makes the journey worthwhile.

For those who prefer two wheels, Vespas offer their own spell. The wind in your hair, freedom to weave through winding lanes, the unmistakable glamour of la dolce vita. Whether skimming along the waterfront or pausing at a quiet café, a Vespa makes every moment feel like a scene worth remembering.

This is more than a rental. It is a passage through time. Each curve delivers a breathtaking view of Lake Como, each turn frames a new postcard. By the day’s end, you carry not just photographs but the glow of history stitched into memory.

The streets of Como were never meant for Cadillacs. These nimble Fiats, some more than sixty years old, slip effortlessly through narrow lanes where larger cars cannot follow. Well kept, quirky, and full of life, they are antiques still in motion, their mileage a testament to care as much as time.

The lake itself is a stage. Pastel villages, ancient villas, serene stretches of blue, each detail conspires with the moment. Even outfits seem to match the setting, as one visitor laughed, “It goes with my outfit, and it was not even intentional.”

Space inside is intimate. Three to a Fiat requires choreography, but that closeness is part of the charm. It is rustic, authentic, and deeply human. Nothing here feels manufactured. Como unfolds at its own pace, with a warmth that makes every guest feel like family.

Every tour reveals the icons. Villa del Balbianello, Lenno, the timeless Comacina island. A loop of 25 to 30 kilometers becomes an odyssey through layers of history and landscape, guided by locals who know where the famous meets the hidden.

For some, the draw is sport, rowing on the lake, cycling the mountain passes, or watching a match at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia where passion collides with culture on the shoreline. For others, it is enough to linger on a balcony with a cup of tea, watching the alpine light ripple across the water.

Lake Como does not simply invite you to visit, it asks you to stay a little longer. Whether behind the wheel of a cherry red Fiat or pausing above the water with a coffee, every moment feels timeless. This is not sightseeing. This is immersion. And it is waiting for you here.

Watch the tour in full now on Como TV.

• Platinum and Gold Matchday Packages: VIP access to Como 1907 games, gourmet hospitality, and curated cultural tours.
• Luxury Lake Living: From 007 inspired trips to more romantic breaks. Everything from Private seaplane tours, villas, yachts, and bespoke lakefront adventures that celebrate Italian lifestyle are available
• Signature Events Calendar: Como 1907 creates unique tailor-made experiences on fixed dates that combine the thrill of football with the luxury destination of Lake Como and exclusive events, building a calendar of unforgettable experiences from Football on The Lake to the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympic Games

Visit https://comofootball.com/tourism-experiences/ to book yours.

“Hemingway’s spirit lingers here. In the clean lines. In the promise of freedom.”

On Lake Como, where stone architecture meets ripple-washed shores, one motorboat stands apart. GOTCHA is a 1974 Bertram 31 Sedan, recast with near-obsessive attention to authenticity. But her value lies not only in polished teak decks or sleek silhouette—it’s the layers of story concealed beneath her varnish.

GOTCHA is the result of a patient pursuit that spanned years of research, inspections, and refinements. When a rusting hull appeared in a forgotten Florida yard, its finder experienced a definitive moment: “Gotcha”—hence her name, now etched onto the stern. A reclaimed bond. A purpose rediscovered.

Tapping into GOTCHA’s mystique is the suggestion—although unconfirmed—that Ernest Hemingway once captained her. A few consistent threads: private correspondence referencing a Florida boat used between Cuba and the Keys, matching model details, and that same minimalist yet muscular aesthetic he admired. There’s no autograph in her cabin, but boarding GOTCHA, many say, evokes a sense of Hemingway’s ethos: freedom, quiet discipline, seaworthiness.

The Bertram 31, introduced in 1961, is often credited with redefining offshore boating through its deep-V hull—designed by Ray Hunt and piloted to victory in intense races like Miami–Nassau. Recognised as “one of the most iconic models in yachting history,” the Sedan’s design has endured for over six decades. Like GOTCHA, many of its peers were chosen by figures such as JFK, Onassis, King Hussein, and King Carl XVI Gustaf: captains of power, taste, and maritime ambition.

Gotcha Tours and Water Experience Center have preserved every original line on GOTCHA, integrating modern systems discreetly. At ten meters and powered by a 600-horsepower engine, she reaches nearly 35 knots—yet it’s the onboard atmosphere that distinguishes her. The galley, helm, and cabin are restored to evoke the 1970s, while the ride whispers stability—a testament to Bertram’s structural ingenuity.

To sail GOTCHA is to commit to a singular experience—stepping into an interplay between history and water, past and presence. It resists the clichés of opulent leisure; instead, it asks passengers to inhabit a mindset: navigation as purposeful ritual. Each passage—across shimmering mid-lake waters or past villas guarded by cypress trees—feels like an unfolding chapter.

Now available on Lake Como, GOTCHA offers ten guests a rare opportunity: for a day, to become part of a floating narrative—one that includes the echoes of Hemingway’s sentences, the contours of maritime engineering excellence, and the wind’s dialogue with stone and wood.

Nestled in the woods of San Maurizio and overlooking the deep blue of Lake Como, Hotel Paradiso—part of the Como4Como project—stands proudly at nearly 800 metres above sea level in the town of Brunate.

More than just a boutique hotel, it is a sustainable luxury retreat by Smart Family Hotel Como, where every detail tells a story of love for the local area: from reclaimed wood whispering tales of the past to panoramic windows framing breathtaking views of the lake.

“Our hotel offers an authentic experience that blends comfort and tradition,” says Laura Ribolini, representative of the property. “Whether it’s couples seeking romance, families on holiday, or devoted football fans, everyone finds their ideal place here. Our mission is to make every guest feel part of the family, in perfect harmony with the nature that surrounds us.”

Sustainability is at the heart of the hotel. Solar panels power the property, a fully induction-based kitchen protects the environment, and advanced climate control systems along with LED lighting help reduce energy impact. The car park, equipped with complimentary electric vehicle charging stations, completes the eco-friendly offering. Inside, the hotel embodies circular economy principles: reclaimed wood and vintage 1950s furnishings create a unique and sustainable atmosphere.

“Roberto Cattaneo, CEO of Smart Family Hotel, explains: “The best way to connect with a place is, first and foremost, to respect it.“

“Choosing a sustainable approach means making smart use of resources, embracing innovation, and setting a tangible example for future generations.”

The wellness area is a true oasis of calm. A saltwater infinity pool offers therapeutic benefits, while the panoramic Jacuzzi provides unforgettable moments overlooking the lake. An outdoor sauna and a relaxing aperitif area at sunset round out a complete wellness experience.

Laura Ribolini adds: “Taking time for yourself and letting go of negative energy is the first step towards writing a new chapter. And why not? It’s also the best way to truly connect with the places we visit. Our spa area is more than just a wellness space – it’s a genuine gateway to happiness. And on that, we have no doubts.“

MamaGina, the hotel’s restaurant, is its beating heart, where local tradition comes to life through recipes handed down over generations. Fresh homemade pasta, polenta prepared according to age-old methods, and the classic dishes of Nonna Gina are served on the panoramic terrace, with the lake as the backdrop to an unforgettable dining experience.

Gina Moschella, the soul of MamaGina, shares: “Honouring tradition means bringing old gestures back to life, respecting raw ingredients, and celebrating what nature gives us each day. Every dish is a story to savour—crafted to delight the palate and touch the heart.”

With pride, Hotel Paradiso also hosts the BRIC’S × Como 1907 premium collection: an exclusive line that celebrates the union between local excellence and sporting passion.

“This partnership represents the perfect blend of luxury hospitality and the spirit of Como 1907 football—two worlds united by the same love for this region.“

Suspended between sky and lake, Hotel Paradiso is more than a place to stay—it is an experience that tells the story of Lake Como from a privileged perspective. It mirrors the same passion and dedication that Como 1907 has brought to the pitch for over a century. This is a partnership that celebrates the very best of the territory, one stay at a time.

Find out more on https://www.hotelparadisocomo.com/

It is a popular wedding destination thanks to its mix of natural beauty, historic architecture, and privacy. The lake’s clear waters, surrounded by hills and mountains, create a peaceful and romantic setting. Historic villas like Villa Pizzo and Villa del Balbianello offer well-kept gardens and classic Italian architecture, making them ideal venues for weddings. The area’s focus on discretion also makes it a top choice for couples, including celebrities, looking for a private celebration.

With its stunning scenery, rich history, and exclusivity, Lake Como remains a sought-after location for intimate and memorable weddings. Here is a round up of just a few famous couples that have got married here.

Chrissy Teigen e John Legend

In September 2013, model Chrissy Teigen and singer John Legend exchanged vows at the historic Villa Pizzo, a 17th-century estate nestled along Lake Como’s western shore. The couple, who had previously fallen in love with the area during a vacation, chose this venue for its intimate ambiance and stunning vistas. Chrissy donned an ivory strapless tulle Vera Wang gown, embodying a “daring princess” aesthetic. The celebration was attended by 125 of their closest friends and family.

A decade later, in September 2023, the duo returned to Lake Como to renew their vows, reaffirming their commitment in the very place where their marital journey began.

Emily Blunt e John Krasinski

In July 2010, actors Emily Blunt and John Krasinski exchanged vows at a private ceremony in Lake Como. The intimate wedding was attended by close friends and family, including notable celebrities such as George Clooney, who of course owns a villa on the lake.

Donnie Yen e Cissy Wang

Martial arts icon Donnie Yen and former beauty queen Cissy Wang celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in July 2023 with a lavish vow renewal at Villa Balbiano. This opulent 16th-century estate, renowned for its elaborate gardens and historical significance, provided a picturesque backdrop for the occasion.

Rochelle e Marvin Humes

British television personalities Rochelle and Marvin Humes marked a decade of marriage by renewing their vows in July 2022 in Lake Como. The ceremony was a family-centric affair, with their three children playing key roles in the celebration.

Deepika Padukone e Ranveer Singh

Bollywood superstars Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh tied the knot in November 2018 at the iconic Villa del Balbianello. This legendary villa provided a secluded and romantic setting for their nuptials. The couple’s wedding was a blend of traditional Indian rituals and the timeless charm of Lake Como, creating a fusion that captivated fans worldwide.

Future Weddings?

In the last two years a number of high profile couples including Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce and musician Charlie Puth and Brooke Sansone have enjoyed a romantic getaway at Lake Como. Hopefully they will be back to tie the knot here soon.

Photo credits: Cristiano Ostinelli

Website: https://ostinellicristiano.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ostinelli.cristiano/

The couple’s weekend getaway was punctuated by a private boat tour, a quintessential Lake Como experience. As their boat glided over the lake they traced a path passing storied landmarks like Villa del Balbianello, where the gardens spill down to the water’s edge, and Villa Carlotta, famous for its botanical wonders and neoclassical elegance.

For those inspired by Taylor and Travis’s romantic excursion, a private boat tour is the ideal way to explore Lake Como. Here are some of the top operators who can curate your own dreamy Italian escape:

• Como Classic Boats: Specialising in vintage wooden boats, this operator offers guided tours with a touch of old-world glamour. Drift past historic villas and quaint lakeside villages while sipping prosecco—just like a classic Italian film.
• Il Medeghino: Based in Como town, Il Medeghino customizes private tours that navigate both iconic landmarks and hidden gems. From the bustling heart of Como to the tranquil corners of the lake, these tours are a mix of discovery and relaxation.
• Bellagio Water Limousines: For a taste of luxury, Bellagio Water Limousines offers polished wooden boats that make every passenger feel like royalty. Their tours often include stops at famous villas, and their captains share stories that bring Lake Como’s history to life.
• Taxi Boat Varenna: Operating out of Varenna, this service is beloved for its intimate, customisable tours. Guests can explore famed towns like Bellagio, Lenno, and Tremezzo, or enjoy a romantic picnic on the boat, surrounded by panoramic views.
• Lake Como Vacations: Offering versatile itineraries, Lake Como Vacations caters to all whims—whether you want to visit the gardens of Villa Melzi, explore the dramatic Orrido di Bellano gorge, or simply sunbathe in a secluded cove.

Sample Itineraries:

• 3-Hour Tour: Glide past historic villas and enjoy a brief stop in a quaint lakeside town.
• 4-Hour Tour: Indulge in a longer exploration with extended visits to villas or a leisurely lakeside lunch.
• Full-Day Tour: Immerse yourself fully with multiple stops, dining experiences, and time to swim or relax on secluded shores.

Lake Como’s combination of dramatic landscapes, luxurious villas, and quaint towns makes it a timeless destination for romance and discovery. Whether you’re following in the wake of celebrities or carving out your own unique adventure, a private boat tour offers the perfect vantage point to experience the lake’s magic.

Osteria Il Governo 1801 has been around for centuries — literally. It first opened its doors in the early 19th century and has been run by the same family for seven generations. In 2019, the current owner, Pietro, gave the restaurant a thoughtful renovation, restoring its historic charm while ensuring it’s ready for modern diners. This isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a window into the past of the region.

We asked Pietro to tell us about what it’s like to run somewhere with so much history and all the responsibility that comes with this. 

He tells us that “Il Governo” is a place that should have ceased to exist centuries ago, yet miraculously and mysteriously it persists in welcoming and hosting travelers from all over the world, just as it did in its origins.

Armenians, Illyrians, Thracians, Huns, Franks, Heruli, Persians, and Greeks, Lombards and Goths, Italics and Britons once took their places at its tables by the fire, and rested in the small or large guest rooms of this Roman inn. They have since been succeeded by American and Russian, Australian and Indonesian, European and Asian guests.

The “secret” of Il Governo lies in the humble awareness that the “government of time and history” is not in human hands. Pietro, Silvia, and their family are merely the “custodians” of a tradition of hospitality, and more importantly, of culture—a tradition that fate decreed would outlive the fall of the last Roman fortress during the barbarian invasions.

Even after the fortress was handed over to the Lombards, the “duty” to offer a warm meal and shelter to the pilgrims of life was never abandoned. For centuries, travelers moving up and down the lake from northern to southern Europe could always find a safe haven and the warmth of hospitality reminiscent of another era. The walls of Il Governo are imbued with the love and care poured into them by the souls who lived within, who extended this warmth to all who entered. They are the true, tangible secret that has fascinated guests since 1801, when Pietro’s family took over its stewardship.

They feel the weight of responsibility for at least 50 generations of innkeepers and hosts who came before them, and for this reason, they pour all of themselves into every dish. Their menu aims to pay homage to their predecessors, and two of its iconic dishes reflect this mission:

The Pasta Unità d’Italia (Unity of Italy Pasta) is dedicated to their carbonari forebears who sparked the Risorgimento, featuring Bronte pistachio pesto and Piacenza coppa from the Chiaravalle della Colomba abbey. In honor of Napoleon and Francesco Melzi d’Eril, they present their Canette Française—duck breast cooked at a low temperature, seared in its own fat, and served with sauces evoking the Byzantine Orient of our “Builders.”

This menu is a continuous archaeological and historical journey, enriched by a fusion of local ingredients with those of the first Armenian and Mediterranean innkeepers, and later, the French friends of the tumultuous years between 1801 and 1849. All of this is crafted in pursuit of balance and cosmopolitan harmony, reflecting the essence of our walls since their inception.

You cannot “serve” at Il Governo without a lump in your throat at the end of the day, as you close the door and garden, gazing out toward the dark, deserted expanse of Comacina Island and the Tower, now called the Tower of Aid, illuminated by red beacons. You step outside to see the stars again, and a prayer rises within you for the souls of all who fought and gave their lives here for that “freedom and civilization” that was once called Rome and centuries later, Italy.

For Pietro and his family, It is both an honor and a pleasure to welcome the world into these stones that exude the most epic and heroic history of our land—the history of Como and its indomitable lake.

• Address: Loc. Rozzo, 18, 22025 Lezzeno CO, Italy
• Opening Hours:
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday to Sunday:
    • Lunch: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
    • Dinner: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Reservations: Highly recommended. You can book via their website or call directly.

The Writer’s Nest is an architectural staple accessible only by boat found on the shores of Lake Como in Faggeto Lario, a place located only 20 minutes from the historic center of Como. Once a stone quarry, this building has turned into the home of authors, the backdrop of an Amazon Prime series, and a new place for tourists to experience the lake.

In 2002, renowned author Giuseppe Guin stumbled upon the building while on a boat ride with his friends. While he could have chosen any place to write, he chose “Il Rudere” as the location for his next 12 novels because of its privacy and distance from the rest of the world.

“ItalianWay.house”

Guin’s time at Il Rudere was more than just a retreat; it became an immersion in the local culture. He spent hours conversing with quarrymen and fishermen, learning the history and nuances of the region. Through these stories, Guin learned of the intricacies of life around Lake Como. His novels, such as Qui non succede niente (“Here Nothing Happens”), Io ti aspetto qui (“I Wait for You Here”), and L’amore imperdonabile: il mistero sul lago (“Unforgivable Love: A Mystery on the Lake”), were born from these conversations, blending local folklore with the landscapes that surrounded him.

Yet the Writer’s Nest’s appeal is not confined to literature. Its individual beauty has also caught the eye of filmmakers, even becoming the backdrop for the fifth episode of the Mr. and Mrs. Smith TV series. The show, which stars Donald Glover and Maya Erskine as two secret agents, brought the rustic charm of Il Rudere to a global audience, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone.
Through novels and TV shows, the Writer’s Nest has found international recognition. However, on a local level, this location holds strong historical significance. This site was where locals could find the Moltrasio stone, which was a key material used in the construction of iconic buildings around the lake such as the Duomo. This stone played a vital role in shaping the architecture and economy of the region.

“ItalianWay.house”

“Lake Como has preserved its atmosphere and uniqueness,” reflects author Giuseppe Guin, and the Writer’s Nest stands as a perfect embodiment of this timeless charm. Lake Como is a one of a kind place where anyone can stumble upon ruins, wonders, and some of the most peaceful places in the world.

To explore more about the Writer’s Nest and other unique staples of Lake Como, check out the “Discover Como” section on Como TV.