Lake Como and the Bernina Express
After spending a relaxing day on the Bernina Express, absorbing the alpine wonders through our panoramic window, we arrived into the town of Tirano. A small selection of restaurants were scattered a stone's throw away from the station. It was refreshing that, after over exhausting our wallets in Switzerland, we were able to finally have a three course meal for a fraction of the price.
Even though Tirano was just a destination to wait for our connection to Lake Como, we managed to find time to try the authentic Italian delicacies on offer. We both enjoyed having a leisurely lunch in Tirano and we were certainly looking forward to unwinding in Lake Como. Arriving into Como in the evening, we had a short ten minute walk to our hotel. This was easy to find as it was right by the lake. I instantly liked Como, as it was full of old and new architecture, you never knew what to expect. We were staying at the Hotel Metropole et Suisse which was right on the illuminated waterfront, the reflection glistening in the lapping waters of the lake. If I arrive somewhere after dark, I always find it very exciting to open the curtains (or shutters in this case), to discover the destination in the light and to see whether the view is what I had expected. On this occasion, I was overwhelmed by the fantastic views of the shimmering lake with mountain back drop, just like a picture postcard. We decided it was time to explore some more of Como on foot and by boat. As we were on a flying visit, we decided to get a ferry for an hour around the bottom part of the lake. This service is a great way to get a taster of the lake and can be used if you want to spend an afternoon in a smaller town close by. Even though it was late March we had been lucky enough to have great weather and this was a great way to sit back and take in the lovely landscapes. I was pleasantly surprised with the selection of restaurants and boutique shops. We were spoilt for choice of where to eat in Como as it was easy to find a spot off the beaten track to enjoy a fresh fish lunch with a glass of Prosecco to complement it. Not only did I enjoy the breathtaking journey from Switzerland to Como, through the picturesque Alps, but I now understand why the lakes appeal to people from all over the world. I certainly intend to visit another of the Italian lakes in the near future, as they are the perfect destination for food lovers or anyone that wants to relax in such a stunning location.
