When we talked to Sara, our Managing Director at Lakeside, we already said it — the Lake Como we love isn’t the one packed with tourists and selfie sticks. It’s the quieter, more personal version — the one you see in the eyes of the people who grew up here.

That’s why we wanted to share our Lake Como with you: through little stories, local tips, and a few personal memories. Hopefully, it helps you fall for this place in a new way — one that’s a bit more real, and a lot more special.

Today, we’re keeping the conversation going with Veronica, our newest team member. If you're curious to see Lake Como from a fresh local perspective, keep reading!

*Veronica playing electronic music on the lake*

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE VILLAGE OF THE LAKE?

My favorite village on Lake Como is definitely Lenno. I've lived there since I was a child, and I have so many cherished memories of the village.

I vividly remember visiting the local market by the beautiful lakeside every Tuesday morning during the summer holidays, where I would have breakfast with my friends.

It was always a lively occasion, and you would see everyone there—it’s such a beloved event among the locals! I highly recommend visiting it.

Another gem of Lenno is Villa Balbianello, a breathtaking villa situated on the Lavedo promontory.

Every time I visit, it feels like stepping into a fairytale. You can't truly experience Lake Como without visiting this incredible place.

YOUR NUMBER 1 RESTAURANT OR CLUB?

I have to be honest: it's really tough to pick just one.

However, I absolutely love the traditional Crotti, where you can indulge in local dishes that are rich, hearty, and incredibly flavorful, like the ones served at Crotto Buba in Grandola ed Uniti.

You can experience a real laghée meal, which is a true taste of the region.

On the other hand, I’m also a big fan of Cantine Follie in Tremezzina, which I consider the best winery around Lake Como.

The location exudes authentic Italian charm, and the staff is both so professional and welcoming.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR I-CAN’T-LIVE-WITHOUT SPECIAL DISH OF THE LAKE?

My favorite dish of the lake is brasato di manzo con polenta which is a rich and flavorful dish.

It is a traditional dish where tender, slow-cooked beef in a rich sauce is served alongside soft, creamy cornmeal polenta, creating a comforting and tasty meal.

It is perfect to have scarpetta too!

IS THERE A SEASON AT LAKE COMO YOU PARTICULARLY LOVE?

I have no doubt: my favorite season on the lake is summer.

I love the vibrant energy that fills the air during those months, with the stunning colors of the landscapes, the bustling villages filled with tourists, and, most of all, the lake and its beautiful beaches.

I highly recommend spending an afternoon at Parco Mayer (in Tremezzina), where you can enjoy a refreshing swim, relax on the grass under the sun, and sip an Aperol Spritz on the charming terrace of the bar.

LET’S TALK ABOUT SONGS: IS THERE A SPECIAL ONE YOU’VE ALWAYS LINKED TO LAKE COMO?

The first song that comes to mind when I read this question is Home by Adriatique & Marino Canal.

While the lyrics don’t specifically talk about hometowns, the sound and vibe of the track instantly take me back to memories of hanging out with my friends around a bonfire on the beach, listening to this song.

3 PLACES/THINGS TO DO AT LAKE COMO YOU ABSOLUTELY RECOMMEND?

I definitely recommend renting a boat, even during springtime, because experiencing the landscapes from this perspective is truly unique.

If you love nature and breathtaking views, you must visit San Domenico. You can reach it by a path starting from Breglia, which takes about 15 minutes.

Once you arrive, you'll encounter a small white chapel that might seem unremarkable at first, but as you walk to the other side, you’ll be blown away by the incredible view.

Last but not least, make sure to do some shopping in Como’s city center, where you'll find charming shops and unique artisan boutiques.

To end your day, take the cable car up to Brunate, a small village above Como, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

On a clear day, you can even spot Milan!

YOUR “PLACE OF THE HEART”?

My heart belongs to the hike up to Monti di Nava.

Especially during the COVID times, when crowded places felt like a nightmare, I would head up to this mountain nearly every day to reconnect with myself and soak in the beautiful landscapes.

And of course, I always had my headphones in!

A MUST-VISIT VILLA?

As I mentioned earlier, Villa Balbianello is a must-see.

Another villa I find absolutely stunning is Villa Monastero.

Located in Varenna, it was originally a monastery before being transformed into a villa in the 18th century.

The villa is renowned for its beautiful botanical gardens that stretch along the lakeshore, offering breathtaking views.

If you're into photography for your social media, this is definitely a spot you won’t want to miss!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL EVENT?

My favorite local event is “Bonzanigo in cantina”.

It’s a wine tasting event in the charming hamlet of Bonzanigo (Tremezzina), with private cellars opening their doors to the public for this special occasion.

Along the route, you'll have the chance to enjoy a selection of local wines, and a refreshment station will be set up for your convenience.

To enhance the experience, live music will accompany the event, creating a delightful and immersive atmosphere.

It usually takes place during the first weekend of August.

AN ADJECTIVE, A SCENT OR A SOUND THAT FOR YOU BEST REPRESENT LAKE COMO?

A scent that reminds me of Lake Como is definitely the smell of flowers.

Every spring, there's an explosion of colors and, especially, fragrances around the lake, and I absolutely love it.

In my opinion, an adjective that best represents Lake Como is 'elegance,' thanks to its beauty and the magnificent villas surrounding it.

10 Ways to Embrace the Local Life in Lake Como with Veronica!