Is there a swimming beach or access point at or near Varenna? Would this be a bad idea for any reason? We will be there at the end of June. Thanks!
Posted by
Richmond, Ky, USA
278 posts
Lola, there is a small beach near the ferry landing, and I mean small. I think you could swim there, if you liked. It really sounds nice after a hike up to the castle. Jeff
Posted by
Alta Loma, CA, USA
1446 posts
Hi Lola. We were in Varenna last September when it was still fairly warm but I didn't see anyone swimming. I don't remember seeing an access point near the ferry landing but then again I wasn't looking for one. You might contact the tourism office for Lake Como to see if there's an area suitable for swimming. Have a wonderful trip.
Posted by
Tulsa, Oklahoma, US
290 posts
Lola, swimming in Lake Como is not recommended due to pollution-a high bacteria level if I recall correctly. It used to affect the entire lake, but I understand the very northern end is now okay; still, the best idea would probably be to stay out of the water.
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
17455 posts
Thanks everyone. If we decide to swim, we don't need much of a beach--just a place to get into the water.
Ash---you addressed one of my concerns. I wonder if pollution is an issue early in the season? And if Varenna is far enough to the north part of the lake to be OK? I'll look around the web for more specific information. My husband is the swimmer, and also a physician, so he's aware of potential problems.
Posted by
Tulsa, Oklahoma, US
290 posts
Lola, if you google 'lake como pollution' you will find all sorts of information. I would say that Varenna is not far enough north to be safe, but, surely there will be some signs letting you know if the water is unsafe for swimming. You might consider a hotel with a pool.
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
17455 posts
Hotel pools usually don't work for my hubby as he is a competetive swimmer and can cover the length of most pools in 2 or 3 strokes. He needs a 25-meter pool or a lake.
I'll read up on lake pollution and wel'' check the signs and ask locally before we venture into the water.
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
17455 posts
Ok, I did some research, and it seems the biggest problem with swimming is the cold water. There is some pollution, mainly industrial, around the population centers to the south. Apparently there is a river flowing into the northern reaches that creates a south-flowing current which keeps that portion of the lake clean enough. I'll show all this to my husband and let hime decide if he wants to.
I also found a lido at Varenna, a bit to the north of the main town, across the little river. They have changing rooms, showers, and a bar, in case anyone else is interested. Here is a map: