Here are probably some of the finest lake views on the entire planet. Verdant hills tumble down into the placid blue waters: the lakeshore ringed with prestigious villas and former fishing villages. Belle Époque atmospheres abound. Bellagio, the 'pearl of Lake Como' is a perfect place to sit outside an old tattoria enjoying an intermezzo and let your eyes glance up at the snow-capped peaks to the north. Across the water from Bellagio is the outstanding Villa Balbianello, the finest villa on the lake now owned by the Italian National Trust. Stand in the Roman style 'Logia' whose columns are wrapped in creeping fig and experience the sensation of being in a quite otherworldly location.

To the south is Milan, the great city of industry and commerce. Here everything that is modern and advanced finds its home: from technological innovation and design to fashion and ways of life. Milan sets the trend. Yet, beneath the dynamic and modern metropolis, Milan conceals extraordinary architectural and artistic treasures. There is an embarrassment of choice: the Duomo, the Castello Sforzesco, the La Scala theatre and the Brera picture gallery.

Visits to Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore are within easy reach of Como.

WHY NOT - spend several days walking along the high ridges and alpine meadows above the lakes before descending to the lakeshore for boat visits of the delightful towns, villages, and villas that line the waterfront. The Villa Serbelloni - (Website here) makes the ideal place to stay.