Fall in Love with these small Lake Como's villages

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, famous for its crystal-clear waters, towering mountains, and charming villages like Bellagio and Varenna. However, beyond these popular tourist spots, there are several lesser-known villas that offer an authentic and tranquil experience, away from the crowds. In this article, we will explore five of these hidden gems: Nesso and Tremezzina, the latter being the union of Lenno, Ossuccio, Mezzegra, and Tremezzo. Each of these villas has its own history, legends, and natural beauty that deserve to be discovered.

Nesso: The Village of Hidden Waterfalls and Medieval Legends

Nestled between lush mountains and on the shores of Lake Como, Nesso is a village that seems to have stood still in time. While Bellagio and Varenna attract crowds, Nesso remains a tranquil refuge, rich in history, legends, and natural beauty that few tourists know about. This village, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and spectacular waterfalls, is a true hidden treasure.

The History of Nesso: From Medieval Origins to the Present Day

Nesso has roots dating back to the Middle Ages, when it was an important strategic point due to its location between the mountains and the lake. The village was known for its medieval bridge, the Ponte Civera, which served as a trade route between the Alpine regions and the Lombardy plains. During the Renaissance, Nesso thrived as a center of silk production, an industry that deeply marked the Lake Como region.

One of the most famous local legends involves the Orrido di Nesso, the waterfall that flows into the lake. It is said that on full moon nights, you can hear the cries of a young woman who threw herself from the bridge after a forbidden love. The waterfall, with its turbulent waters and dark rocks, creates a mystical atmosphere that fuels visitors’ imaginations.

What to Do in Nesso: Natural Beauty and Historical Monuments

Orrido di Nesso: The Waterfall that Inspires Legends

The Orrido di Nesso is the heart of the village, a stunning waterfall that drops from a height of 200 meters, creating a dramatic and unforgettable scene. The waterfall is formed by the meeting of the Tuf and Nosè rivers, which descend from the mountains and rush toward the lake.

Fun Fact: The word “orrido” comes from Latin and means “terrifying,” a name that reflects the force and wild beauty of the waterfall.

How to visit: The waterfall can be seen from different angles, including the Ponte Civera and a suspended walkway that offers spectacular views.

Useful link: Orrido di Nesso Official Site

Ponte Civera: The Medieval Bridge that Tells Stories

The Ponte Civera is one of the symbols of Nesso. Built in the 13th century, this arched bridge was an important trade route during the Middle Ages. Today, it is a perfect spot for photos and to admire the view of the waterfall and the lake.

Fun Fact: The bridge has been rebuilt several times over the centuries but retains its original structure and historic charm.

Useful link: History of Ponte Civera

Chiesa di Santa Maria: A Treasure of Sacred Art

The Chiesa di Santa Maria is a small church dating back to the 15th century. Its interior houses impressive frescoes depicting biblical scenes and local saints. The church is an example of the region’s rich artistic and religious heritage.

Fun Fact: One of the most famous frescoes depicts the Virgin Mary with the Baby Jesus, surrounded by angels and saints.

Useful link: Chiesa di Santa Maria

Hiking Trails and Viewpoints: Connecting with Nature

Nesso is surrounded by trails that lead to natural viewpoints with panoramic views of Lake Como. One of the most popular trails is the Via dei Monti Lariani, which passes through Nesso and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the lake.

Tip: Bring water and comfortable shoes, as some trails can be steep.

Useful link: History of Nesso

Where to Stay in Nesso:

For a more authentic experience, consider renting a house or apartment through Airbnb. Airbnb in Nesso

Understanding the Municipality of Tremezzina

The municipality of Tremezzina was created in 1928, after the merger of the municipalities of Lenno, Mezzegra, and Tremezzo. It was dissolved in 1947, and the pre-existing municipalities were reconstituted. The municipality was reestablished in 2014 through the merger of the municipalities of Lenno, Mezzegra, Ossuccio, and Tremezzo.

Lenno: The Tranquil Beauty of Villa del Balbianello

Lenno is a peaceful village that is home to one of the most beautiful properties on Lake Como: Villa del Balbianello. This historic villa, with its lush gardens and impressive architecture, has been the setting for films like 007 – Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II. Beyond the villa, Lenno offers a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

History and Curiosities

The Villa del Balbianello was built in the 18th century as a retreat for cardinals and nobles. Its gardens were designed to offer stunning views of the lake, and today they are one of the region’s main tourist attractions. The villa also has a rich history linked to olive oil production, with olive groves dating back to Roman times.

What to Do in Lenno

Villa del Balbianello: Explore the gardens and architecture of this iconic villa. Villa del Balbianello Official Site

Piazza XI Febbraio: The Heart of the Village

Piazza XI Febbraio is the vibrant center of Lenno, a place where local life unfolds at a tranquil and welcoming pace. This historic square is surrounded by charming cafés, artisan shops, and small restaurants serving regional dishes.

History: The square was named in honor of an important date in local history, but its origins date back to the medieval period, when Lenno was a stopping point for merchants and travelers.

Enjoy:

• A coffee at Bar Centrale, a popular spot among locals, and observe the comings and goings of daily life.
• Visit the artisan shops, where you can find local products like olive oil, cheeses, and handmade fabrics.
• In the evening, the square becomes a meeting point for locals, with live music and seasonal events.

Lenno Beach: A Lakeside Retreat

Lenno Beach is a small lakeside leisure area, perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Como.

Features:

• The beach is made up of small pebbles and grassy areas, with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.
• The lake’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for a refreshing swim, especially during the summer months.

What to do:

• Relax in the sun and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and surrounding villages.
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake from a different perspective.
• Have a picnic with local products like cheeses, bread, and fresh fruit.

Tip:

Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season.

Ossuccio

The development of Ossuccio dates back to Roman times, when the locality was configured as a pagus (rural district), as evidenced by the discovery in the Chiesa dei Santi Agata e Sisinio (Church of Saints Agatha and Sisinnius) of a Roman votive altar, dating back to the 2nd or 3rd century AD, bearing the name of the ancient settlement.

During the Middle Ages, Ossuccio was dependent on the great military and religious center of the Isola Comacina (Comacina Island), repeatedly involved in various armed conflicts.

What to visit:

l’Isola Comacina (Ilha Comacina) e o museu Antiquarium, la Chiesa dei Santi Eufemia e Vincenzo, (Igreja dos Santos Eufêmia e Vicente), la Chiesa di Santa Maria Maddalena, la Chiesa dei Santi Giacomo e Filippo (Igreja dos Santos Tiago e Filipe), la Chiesa dei Santi Agata e Sisinio, il Santuario della Beata Vergine del Soccorso (Patrimonio UNESCO), il Monastero di San Benedetto in Val Perlana.

Tremezzo: The Refuge of Villa Carlotta’s Gardens

Tremezzo is another enchanting village, famous for its stunning gardens and Villa Carlotta, a 17th-century mansion that houses an impressive collection of art and sculptures. The village is also a great starting point for exploring other areas of the lake, thanks to its central location.

The Villa Carlotta was built in 1690 and today houses an art collection that includes sculptures by Antonio Canova and 19th-century paintings. The villa’s gardens are equally impressive, with over 500 species of plants and flowers.

History: The villa was built in 1690 by Marquis Giorgio Clerici and later acquired by the Sommariva family, who transformed it into a center of art and culture. In 1843, the villa was gifted to Princess Carlotta of Prussia, hence the name “Villa Carlotta.”

Gardens:

• The villa’s gardens are a spectacle in themselves, with over 500 species of plants and flowers, including azaleas, rhododendrons, and citrus trees.
• The gardens are divided into different sections, such as the Italian Garden, the Romantic Garden, and the Bamboo Grove.

Art Collection:

• The villa houses an impressive collection of sculptures, including works by Antonio Canova, such as “Cupid and Psyche.”
• The interior rooms are decorated with frescoes, antique furniture, and paintings depicting 19th-century aristocratic life.

What to do:

• Stroll through the gardens and admire the panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
• Visit the villa’s rooms to appreciate the art collection and learn about the Sommariva family’s history.
• Participate in seasonal events, such as art exhibitions and open-air concerts.

Useful link: Villa Carlotta Official Site

Boat Tours:

Take a boat tour on the lake to admire the views of the mountains and villages.

Useful link: Boat Tours on Lake Como

Chiesa di San Lorenzo: A small church with frescoes and a serene atmosphere.

Gastronomic Suggestions in the Region:

The cuisine is something special on the shores of Lake Como. Places where history, legends, and nature intertwine, creating a unique and memorable experience:

ACQUADOLCE

Hotel Rusall

TERRAZZA RUSALL
Ristorante La Fagurida: Official Website

Grand Hotel Tremezzo: A luxury hotel with lake views. Official Website

Restaurants, Pizzerias, and Bars at Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Ristorante La Darsena di Tremezzo: Official Website

The villas of Lake Como offer a unique and authentic experience. Each of these hidden gems has its own charm and history, inviting you to explore the quieter and more enchanting side of the lake.

Have you already visited any of these villas? Tell us in the comments or start planning your next trip to Lake Como.
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( World Wild Hearts )