I'm spending a long weekend in Milan and I would like to spend a day (at least) driving up to Lake Como and exploring the western side of the Lake (I've already seen the Eastern side). Does anyone have any scenic drives or hiking recommendations? I've already spent time on the coast of Lake Como, but I would like to drive/hike around the mountains a bit. Where should I go?
Also, what do you think about picking up the car at the airport vs. in town? I only need it for the Lake Como portion (no need for a car in Milan), so I'm trying to figure out whether I should get it directly from the airport or pick it up the next day. I'll most likely arrive in Milan late at night, so I would not drive directly to Como. I would leave the next morning, at the earliest.
Also, any recommended hotels in Milan that have parking? It looks like tons of people recommend Hotel Berna, and that would be ideal, but it doesn't have any rooms for my weekend. :-(