Lake Como area trip

The streets and roads around the lakes and mountains of Lake Como are surprisingly narrow (surprising to someone who is not familiar with them), and for this and other reasons travelers here have reported that driving and parking vans have been big headaches; and two vans would double the trouble. You wouldn't need the vans after you get there, because the main draw is the Lake and the views from the middle of the lake, and public ferry/hydrofoil system is perfect for that. And you can easily get from Milan to Lake Como by train. And yes, moving 10 people around is enough of a hassle so that it could increase the stress/decrease the enjoyment of the person(s) who has to plan all of that. For that size of a group (10) and that location, a tour (paying someone else to get the headaches) might be well worth the cost, increasing the quality of your experience.

JEAN, a few thoughts to add to Kent's always excellent information.

First of all, a bit of further information would be helpful. I'm assuming your group is 5-6 couples, so that's the number of Hotel rooms you would need? Also, are you only going to be travelling to Lago di Como, or elsewhere in Italy?

A tour is certainly one option (depending on your budget(s) of course), as someone else does all the work in figuring out transport, hotels, meals & local tours. If you were going to consider that, I would highly recommend the RS tours.

As Kent mentioned, some of the roads in that area can be somewhat "challenging" for drivers used to wider roads, which may be more of a concern driving larger vehicles like Vans. With accurate planning, there's no reason not to use public transportation, even with a group of 10-12 people.

The first thing to do is decide which town you want to use as a "home base" on Lago di Como. I think it's safe to say that the majority of Rick's readers would suggest Varenna, and that would be my recommendation also. As far as lodgings there, one possibility to consider would be La Torretta B&B, which is managed by Laura from Hotel Olivedo. I hope Rick doesn't mind, but to quote his recommendation regarding the B&B - "This would be an awesome little palace for a party of 10-12 to take over" (Italy 2008, page 215).

One thing to keep in mind regarding the trip you're planning this time vs. your previous trip to Tuscany is that the situation is somewhat different. At Lago di Como, you'll be travelling mostly by boat to get around, rather than using a vehicle between towns in the area.

How many days were you planning to stay in the area, and which sights on the lake do you want to see? Also, even though one of the group is fluent in Italian, it would be a good idea for everyone to learn a few common words.

I'll wait for some further information before posting any more suggestions.

Cheers!

We have rented apts in Lenno and in Menaggio and used the following website: http://www.lakecomohomes.com They also have villas to rent with pictures, prices, and availability calendars to help you decide. The properties they manage are all over Lake Como, even on the Verena side in the event that you decide to train it up to the lake from Milan. Our favorite area is Mezzegra which is quiet and about 10 minutes to Menaggio. Driving along the lake can be challenging if you are skiddish on narrow roads and if you go into the mountains there are hairpin turns. However, the roads are filled with many tour buses who are professional drivers. It will depend on your level of comfort, but it is do-able. We do it. Many people in Menaggio speak English, so you won't have that difficult of a time regarding the language. It is a beautiful area between the mountains, the lake and palm trees! We have gone there for the past four years as a special piece of our itinerary and enjoy every minute of it.

Thanks to all on your responses. They were very helpful. One more question, do you think there is enough to do there for a week or is 2-3 days enough to cover the area?

thanks again!
Jean

Gee that is a big group to coordinate on and off ferries and trains etc. The idea of Lake Como is to slow down and enjoy the incredible beauty and tranquility. Strolling, taking the ferry and eating at lakes edge is what this area is about mostly. There is less to do and see in Maggiore. I love Lake Como but your grp is large.I can see how Tuscany is more conducive to a large grp. Have you considered other areas like the Dolomites?
Altho here renting a villa might be more difficult to find. Amalfi coast is stunning. the coastal road can be treacherous, windy but the views and villages gorgeous and worth the narrow rodes.