Lake Como Catamaran Cruise with Local Aperitif from Menaggio

We’ll meet at the Menaggio's Public docks right in front of the Grand Hotel Victoria. At the starting time of the cruise and once everyone get onboard we will move away from the shore and explain all the details of the tour.

We will begin navigating south, passing first by the towns of Griante and Cadenabbia, home to the famous Villa Carlotta and its award-winning botanical garden. Next, we will pass the Tremezzo lakefront, Mayer-Olivelli Park, the magnificent Villa Sola, and Mezzegra—the historic location where, on April 28, 1945, Benito Mussolini and his companion Claretta Petacci were executed by local partisans, marking the end of the Fascist dictatorship in Italy.

We will then reach the heart of the town of Lenno, in an area known by locals as the "Gulf of Venus" (Golfo di Venere). From there, we will skirt the small harbor and the town's promenade until we approach the Balbianello peninsula, where the gardens of the famous Villa Balbianello begin.

Following the Balbianello peninsula, the famous Villa del Balbianello will appear before us with its stunning terraced gardens overhanging the water. Built in the 18th century and surrounded by Lake Como on three sides, it stands imposing and majestic. For centuries a private residence of prominent families, and owned by the FAI (Italian National Trust) as a museum and garden since the 1980s, it has gained world renown as the backdrop for famous films such as Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and 007: Casino Royale.

Adjacent to it is the equally beautiful Villa La Cassinella. Also situated on the promontory and facing south, it stretches gracefully along the shores of Lake Como. Although built more recently than many other villas on the lake, La Cassinella offers its guests a magnificent garden featuring the main villa with a swimming pool, a guesthouse, two private boathouses, and even a tennis court. Available for short- or long-term rental, this private estate is accessible only by boat, offering the utmost privacy and tranquility. Continuing on to the town of Ossuccio, you will arrive at the renowned Villa Balbiano. This elegant 17th-century residence is currently one of the lake's most exclusive venues, chosen by many couples as the perfect wedding destination. The villa—where original frescoes and period furnishings are still preserved—can also be rented for private stays.

Here we arrive at the unique and pristine Isola Comacina, the only island on the lake. It overlooks the shores of Sala Comacina and Ossuccio, forming the bay known as Zoca de l'oli—so named for the exceptional calmness of its waters, which are literally "smooth as oil." This area enjoys a climate so mild that olive trees and Mediterranean plants flourish here. During the stop, a glass of wine will be served, and you will also have the opportunity to take a dip and enjoy the tranquil waters of the island's bay.

Resuming our journey, we will head first toward Lezzeno and then cruise along the lake shores until reaching San Giovanni, a neighborhood adjacent to Bellagio known for its numerous luxury waterfront residences. As we approach Bellagio, we will come upon the majestic Villa Melzi with its distinctive English-style gardens, which are also open to visitors. Built in 1808 as the historical residence of the Melzi d’Eril family, the villa has become one of Lake Como’s most visited spots today, thanks to gardens that offer breathtaking views and a refreshing escape from crowded Bellagio.

After completing the loop around Bellagio, we will pause nearby the gardens of Villa Giulia (which is not visible from the lake) for a brief, relaxing stop. Here, you will once again have the opportunity to take a dip in the calm waters of the lake. During the break, a light aperitif featuring local cured meats and cheeses will be served, accompanied by a fresh glass of wine.

Once finished with the aperitif, we will resume navigating one last time, passing between Varenna and Bellagio as we head toward the western shore of Lake Como to return toward Menaggio. As we approach the Grand Hotel Menaggio, we will prepare to dock at the public pier of Menaggio, located near Hotel Victoria, where our tour will conclude.