Halfway down the eastern shore of the lake, right opposite the mouth of the Lecco branch, lies Varenna. Like a sentry standing at the crossroad of the lake, it was built on a rock promontory overshadowed by a steep mountain, at the top of which you can make out dark outline of an old ruined castle.

The village dates from the 5th century - you can still see in places the original Roman layout of the town: a geometric design which allows wonderful views of the lake. The reds, terracottas and yellows of its houses, its mild climate and the olive and cypress trees make you wonder whether you aren’t 200 km further south.

Apart from the beautiful gardens and villas, there are some unusual things to do in town; for example: the Ornithological Museum in the rooms of the old Palazzo Venini; the shortest river in Italy:the Fiumelatte is only 250 meters long and only runs for 6 months a year; the falconer at the Castle of Vezio.

Why Varenna

• Wonderful sunsets over the lake (it is on the east side of the lake)
• A pleasant town with many attractions

Our rentals in the Como, Bellaggio, Menaggio, Varenna area include villas, apartments and self-catering accommodation in wonderful holiday settings to ensure that your vacation in the area of Lake Como is a memorable experience.

To do in Varenna

• Walk up to the Castle of Vezio and don't miss the falcons
• Visit Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi
• Try to find the world's shortest river, Fiumelatte
• Passeggiata along the lakeside walk

A bit further afield

• Take a ferry to Bellagio, Lecco, Menaggio, Como
• Take a ferry to the north of the lake