Bellano
Things to do in Italy?
Review and Itinerary by Baldassarri Giuseppe from Italy
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Bellano is a charming town located on the eastern shore of Lake Como in Italy. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and delicious local cuisine. Here's a suggested itinerary for a tour of Bellano, including attractions, food and wine specialties, transportation options, and accommodation recommendations:
Day 1:
- Morning: Start your tour by exploring the historic center of Bellano. Visit the Church of San Nicolò, a beautiful Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century. Take a stroll along the narrow streets and enjoy the picturesque views of the lake.
- Afternoon: Head to the Orrido di Bellano, a natural gorge carved by the Pioverna River. Walk along the suspended walkways and admire the stunning waterfalls and rock formations.
- Evening: Indulge in some local cuisine at one of the traditional trattorias in Bellano. Try dishes like risotto al pesce persico (perch risotto), missoltini (sun-dried freshwater fish), and pizzoccheri (buckwheat pasta with cheese and vegetables).
Day 2:
- Morning: Take a boat trip from Bellano to Varenna, a nearby town known for its colorful houses and beautiful gardens. Explore the Villa Monastero and its botanical gardens, and visit the medieval Castle of Vezio for panoramic views of Lake Como.
- Afternoon: Return to Bellano and visit the Museo della Pesca (Fishing Museum), which showcases the history and traditions of fishing on Lake Como. Learn about the techniques and tools used by local fishermen.
- Evening: Enjoy a wine tasting experience at one of the wineries in the Bellano area. Taste the local wines, such as the Valtellina reds or the white wines from the nearby Franciacorta region.
Day 3:
- Morning: Embark on a scenic hike in the surrounding mountains. The Sentiero del Viandante (Path of the Wanderer) is a popular trail that offers breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscapes.
- Afternoon: Visit the nearby town of Lecco, located on the southeastern branch of Lake Como. Explore the town's historic center, stroll along the lake promenade, and visit the Villa Manzoni, the former home of the famous Italian writer Alessandro Manzoni.
- Evening: Return to Bellano and savor a traditional dinner at a local restaurant. Don't miss the opportunity to try local desserts like torta paesana (a chocolate and almond cake) or miascia (a sweet bread pudding).
Transportation:
To reach Bellano, you can fly into Milan and then take a train or rent a car to reach the town. The closest airport is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). From Milan, you can take a train to Varenna-Esino station, which is just a short ferry ride or drive away from Bellano.
Accommodation:
Bellano offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Some popular choices include Hotel Villa Stupenda, Hotel Meridiana, and Casa Vacanze La Torre.
Itinerary Duration:
To fully enjoy the attractions, local food, and wine specialties in Bellano and its surroundings, a 3 to 4-day itinerary would be ideal. This duration allows you to explore the town at a relaxed pace and also take day trips to nearby destinations like Varenna and Lecco. However, you can adjust the itinerary based on your preferences and the time you have available.
Please note that the availability of attractions, restaurants, and accommodations may vary, so it's always a good idea to check in advance and make any necessary reservations.
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Tour of Bellano and itinerary to discover the attractions and local food and wine specialties to taste, how to get there, where to stay in Italy, How many days should the itinerary be?
