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The morning begins with a boat ride to Villa de Balbianello which overlooks Lake Como. It is located on the western shore of Lake Como and is famous for its elaborate terraced gardens. Originally this property was a Franciscan monastery that had once existed on the tip of the peninsula since the 13th century. In 1787 the monastery was purchased and converted into a villa. During the centuries the villa changed many hands. It is now a beautiful visitors site for over 100,000 people per year. <\/p>\n
As we reach the Villa we are lovingly guided on a tour of the extensive grounds and interior rooms. It takes approximately an hour to walk through the entire villa which reveals how grand this property is and the full tour can take up to two hours or more.<\/p>\n
After touring the Villa we have all worked up our appetites for lunch. We board the boat and head to the Comacina Island to have lunch at the Locanda restaurant. Upon arrival, we are greeted with a warm welcome by the “Oste” (old-fashioned word for “pub owner”), Benvenuto Puricelli. Benvenuto was born in Sala Comacina, in a small village, you can see from the island. Benvenuto worked all over the world as a chef and settled down at this island performing the fire ritual that the English writer, Francis Dale, wrote about to undo the mysterious curse that was cast upon the island by Vidulfo, Bishop of Como in 1169. The island is a unique experience of Lake Como. The scenery is remarkable in the midst of an ancient setting on the shores of Spurano, the picturesque fisherman’s house and the small Romanesque style church of St. Giacomo. A few steps away from the church is a bell tower with Santa Maria Maddalena. The history is rich and amazing remains of the past that exist here. We have a spectacular lunch of tomatoes with olive oil, wood grilled salmon, or as the serves lovingly named it “salmon trout”, iron pot chicken with salad, parmigiano and reggiano cheese, dessert with coffee to follow.<\/p>\n
Following this fantastic lunch, we enjoy riding in the boat again, to view more of Lake Como on our way to Bellagio. Bellagio is a village on Lake Como. It is known for its cobblestone streets, elegant buildings and Villa Serbelloni Park, an 18th-century terraced garden with lake views. Nearby is the Tower of the Arts, a venue for exhibitions and performances, and the Romanesque San Giacomo Church. Close to rocky Loppia Beach, the Museum of Navigational Instruments displays sundials and compasses.<\/p>\n
The rest of the day is on our own, and many explore the massive grounds of the hotel, take in a spa, massage or just enjoy the infinity pool which overlooks Lake Como.<\/p>\n
Another Heaven on Earth Day!<\/p>\n
In Loving Service,
\nLove and Light Julie <\/p>\n
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