Travel

This charming city on Lake Como is the place Italians go to flee the summer time crowds

Published

2 years ago

23/07/2024

Isabel Rosas

This charming city on Lake Como is the place Italians go to flee the summer time crowds

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Lake Como has lengthy been a preferred getaway for holidaymakers looking for a chic lakeside retreat, with the cities of Bellagio and Como attracting tens, if not tons of, of 1000’s of tourists a yr.

Its enchantment is in no way new. Lake Como was one of many main luxurious European hotspots of the Sixties, offering a haven for Hollywood stars and rich households eager to flee the town. Winston Churchill got here right here to color after the conflict and Verdi was impressed to jot down La Traviata on these very banks.

Right this moment, signs of luxury abound – personal boats dot a lake surrounded by waterfront mansions, and there’s a Ferrari round each nook. The wealthy and well-known flock to the lake each summer time, with the likes of George and Amal Clooney, Tom Cruise, Madonna, and Sylvester Stallone all having fun with the shores of Como. Lake Como has a wealthy status, and the crowds and infrequently exorbitant costs replicate that.

Nevertheless, Lake Como isn’t simply made up of high-end tourist-filled hotspots. Alongside the 30-mile-long lake, you could find culturally historic cities resembling Lecco, Sorico, Menaggio, and Domaso that present a respite from the oppressive crowds. In any case, a part of the magic of escaping to a lakeside city or mountainous refuge is to get in contact with nature, not be jostled by the hordes making an attempt to get the proper lakefront picture.

Como winds for 30 miles through Lecco, Sorico and Menaggio — Como winds for 30 miles by means of Lecco, Sorico and Menaggio (Getty Photographs/iStockphoto)

Simply south of Varenna lies the city of Lecco, beloved by Italians in search of a Lake Como getaway. The city itself feels small and the centre is walkable – you may get from the practice station to the ferry terminal in simply 10 minutes on foot.

That’s to not say that there isn’t a wealth of retailers, bakeries, and eating places that you could dive into. You’ll discover massive title European shops like H&M, Calzedonia, and Carrefour supermarkets blended in with native impartial clothes and bookshops. The shortage of touristy stands is obvious. Not like Bellagio, you received’t discover stalls promoting fridge magnets and trinkets on each nook.

There are additionally the everyday Italian piazzas, resembling Piazza Garibaldi, the place you possibly can take pleasure in an espresso with a pastry whereas listening to a busker play. Afterwards, wander alongside the lakefront promenade with its well-maintained cycle lanes and rows of flowers with a beneficiant scoop of gelato from Capo Horn Gelateria Artigianale. For the primary eating places and bars like Bottega del Maiale, L’EK Bistrot, and Cardamomo Persian Palace Lecco, head to Piazza Septembre the place you’ll discover alfresco eating areas and common stay music simply a few streets again from the lakefront.

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A brief wander to the lakefront is rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the encompassing mountains, resembling Monte Rosa, Monviso, and Adamello, and you may typically discover households and {couples} sitting on the shoreline having fun with a picnic because the solar goes down.

Every part right here strikes slightly slower. You’ll be able to simply whereas away hours with a beneficiant glass of Sforzato di Valtellina or Franciacorta and people-watch in the primary sq. of Palazzo delle Paure. For panoramas of the lake and mountains, take a passeggiata to the Lungolago di Lecco viewpoint with its medieval ruins.

Whereas there may be far more selection by way of lodging in Bellagio and Como, together with extra chain lodges and massive manufacturers, when you’re in search of reasonably priced luxurious, there are many good choices in Lecco such because the Lodge Griso and Lodge Villa Cipresi.

The area surrounding Lecco is full of hiking trails, cycling routes and other opportunities for outdoor activities — The realm surrounding Lecco is filled with mountaineering trails, biking routes and different alternatives for outside actions (Rebecca Crowe)

The lake and the encompassing mountains are glorious for hiking and climbing, with the Nibbio crag that’s well-liked with climbers inside a half hour’s drive. Close by trails embody the intimidating Magnodeno Mountain, Monte Barro and the tranquil Sentiero delle Pozze (or Path of the Swimming pools) the place you possibly can take a dip in pure swimming pools all alongside the route.

A hike to Piani d’Erna or Monte Resegone is a good way to construct up an urge for food for scrumptious, and reasonably priced, native fare resembling pizzoccheri alla Valtellinese, creamy polenta dishes, and unctuous risotto.

The place to remain

Lecco Hostel & Rooms

For an reasonably priced Lake Como expertise, Lecco Hostel and Rooms provides shiny, trendy widespread areas and a mixture of comfortable personal rooms and dorm beds, only a kilometre from the primary practice station. The hostel additionally advantages from an exquisite backyard, a spacious shared lounge, co-working areas, and an onsite restaurant.

Casa al Lago

Lots of the high locations to remain in Lecco are vacation properties and residence leases. Casa al Lago has the most effective places on the town, proper on the lakefront. This small however stunning one-bedroom residence has a balcony that appears straight out throughout Lake Como, instantly reverse the ferry terminal in the course of city.

HLL Lodge Lungolago Lecco

If you wish to keep proper by the gorgeous Lungolago di Lecco viewpoint, contemplate reserving a keep at HLL Hotel Lungolago Lecco. With the favored Tabula Rosa restaurant being connected to the lodge, a location simply steps from the lakefront promenade, and beautiful balcony views, it’s undoubtedly the most effective locations to remain in Lecco.

Easy methods to get there

Essentially the most handy route includes flying into Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) or Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY). British Airways, , easyJet, and Ryanair fly from throughout the UK with a flight time of slightly below two hours.

After a 45-minute practice from Malpensa to Milan, or a 17-minute bus from Bergamo airport to Bergamo, you possibly can take a direct practice to Lecco. From both Bergamo or Milan, this takes 40 minutes, with 58 trains a day from Milan and round 29 from Bergamo.

Getting round

For journeys across the lake, there are 29 trains a day between Varenna and Lecco in addition to 4-6 ferries per day between Lecco and Bellagio (relying on the day).

The city’s practice station has direct and frequent traces into Varenna simply north of the city, and into Bergamo and Milan, which are perfect for day journeys or for heading out to the airport. Prepare tickets to Milan price simply 5 euros every manner and you may be within the centre of the town inside an hour.

Learn extra on why you should pick North Macedonia for a lakeside break

Related Topics:charming Como crowds escape Italians Lake summer Town

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Isabel Rosas

Travel

British Museum to focus on Hawaiian tradition in new exhibition

Published

11 months ago

04/10/2025

Isabel Rosas

British Museum to focus on Hawaiian tradition in new exhibition

Portaits of Hawaiian King Liholihoand Queen Kamāmalu, created in 1824

Trustees of the British Museum Sketches of a young Hawaiian man and women in fine 19th century clothing. On the left is the king wearing a dark grey military style jacket. He has short wavy hair and is posing, looking slightly upwards. The Queen is wearing a white plumed headdress and a square-necked white dress with fine ruffled neckline, puffed sleeved and the dress gathers in at the waistband and flares out in pleats. Her hair is gathered and you can only see some of her curled hair around her forehead and she wears earrings. — Portaits of Hawaiian King Liholihoand Queen Kamāmalu, created in 1824

The primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.

Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.

The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.

This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.

This feathered cloak was despatched from Hawaii to King George III in 1810

Royal Collection Enterprises Ltd A 19th century yellow and red cloak made from feathers. It has an simple diamond shaped pattern and a yellow border. The feathers have fallen away in parts of the cloak. — This feathered cloak was despatched from Hawaii to King George III in 1810

The exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.

Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.

Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.

This 9ft (2.7m) statue of a Hawaiian god will probably be positioned within the Nice Courtroom

Trustees of the British Museum A wooden sculpture of a human-like figure wearing a large helmet that covers the face and extends at the back to the floor. Is it wearing a white loin cloth. — This 9ft (2.7m) statue of a Hawaiian god will probably be positioned within the Nice Courtroom

Guests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.

A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.

The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.

Umeke ki’i (bowl with determine) is among the many reveals on show

Trustees of the British Museum Two carved wooden bowls linked by a carved wooden human figure. — Umeke ki’i (bowl with determine) is among the many reveals on show

The creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.

Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.

She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.

“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”

The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.

Travel

20 Greatest-Preserved Medieval Cities in France You Ought to See!

Published

11 months ago

04/10/2025

Isabel Rosas

20 Greatest-Preserved Medieval Cities in France You Ought to See!

France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.

From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.

These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.

On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.

20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to

Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!

1. Riquewihr, Alsace

Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.

Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.

Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.

Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.

2. Eguisheim, Alsace

Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.

The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.

Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.

The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.

3. Rocamadour, Occitanie

One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.

The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.

4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne

Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.

Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.

Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.

5. Dinan, Brittany

Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.

Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.

The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.

6. Honfleur, Normandy

Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.

Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.

Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.

7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.

Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.

8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie

Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.

Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.

9. Gordes, Provence

Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.

Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.

Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.

10. Locronan, Brittany

Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..

Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.

Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.

11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie

Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.

Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.

12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy

Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.

This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.

Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.

Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.

13. Minerve, Occitanie

Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.

Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.

14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..

Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.

15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.

The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.

Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.

16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie

Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.

Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.

Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.

17. Conques, Occitanie

Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.

Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.

Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.

18. Najac, Occitanie

Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.

Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.

Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.

19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.

This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.

Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.

20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.

Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.

Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities

Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.

Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.

From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.

Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.