Lake Region: Which Lake to Visit?

Garda is on your way. How do you define, "most scenic"? They all, they are all different. Maybe for pure ruggesdness, Maggiore. Most to see, probably Como. Sorry I'm not more help.

By scenic I was referring to both the views of the lake, possibly the mountains and the towns on the lake. Also looking for towns or places to stay that have nice outdoor cafes to enjoy a meal and drinks and take in the scenery.

We enjoyed staying in Varenna at Lake Como. No need for a car. We stayed at the Orange House, near the train station (but not noisy), and it was very reasonably priced. It was clean and the hosts were fantastic.

Richard, Lago di Como or Lago Maggiore would both be good choices but given your criteria, Varenna would probably be the best choice. It's a great place to just enjoy Il Dolce Far Niente (and of course some good Gelato or Wine). It's easily accessible, only an hour outside of Milan, and the town itself is very walkable. There's a small promenade that extends along the lake from the Ferry dock to the main part of town. There are a number of small Cafe's along the waterfront where one can enjoy a fine meal and watch the Ferries and other boat traffic going back and forth. It's easy to take day trips to nearby locations such as the resort town of Bellagio (or others). You didn't specify what criteria or price range you're looking for in a Hotel or B&B so it's difficult to offer suggestions. Some that are frequently recommended by others here: > Albergo Milano > Albergo Olivedo > Orange House B&B > Hotel Royal Victoria > Hotel Villa Cipressi > Hotel Eremo Gaudio (somewhat "uphill" above the lake) The town of Stresa on Lago Maggiore is also good, but typically has expensive "high end" restaurants and Hotels facing the lake, so not the same ambience as in Varenna. Happy travels!

Hi Richard. We visited Lake Como & stayed in Varenna (specifically at Albergo Milano which we immensely enjoyed) for 3 days in Sept '09. We visited some of the mid-lake towns by ferry and found Varenna to be very quaint and picturesque. I can't speak about the other lakes but I am planning to visit Lake Maggiore on our next trip and I am hoping that I enjoy it as much as I liked Varenna.

mY FAVORITE IS LAKE cOMO AND STAY IN vARENNA.You will not be disappointed, in fact you will wan to return again and again.

We will be in Lake Como in April, staying in
Bellagio, at the Hotel Centrale. Friends of ours stayed here and couldn't say enough wonderful things about both area and hotel. Trip Advisor also gave it outstanding reviews. I also know you do not need a car in Lake Como. Good Luck with your trip.

I have a similar questions....is staying in Varenna accessible to other locations as well as lake Maggiore?
Can you get to Switzerland from Varenna?

Hello Richard, My husband and I are in our 60's. Two years ago we stayed in Lugano, Switzerland and did day trips to Lake Como and Lake Magiorre. Both lakes are beautiful. We just hopped on a short train and went into Milan. Lugano is very conveneint to both lakes. Elaine

Maggiore. You can stay at the hotel on the island in the middle of the lake. (Isle de Pestatorie...not sure of spelling) Great restaurant there too. Take the boat from Stresa.
On land can stay at Hotel Eden on main drag in Stresa or in Cannobio (on the lake close to Locarno) at Hotel Pironi.