“One arm of Lake Como turns off to the south between two unbroken chains of mountains, which cut it up into a series of bays and inlets as the hills advance into the water and retreat again, until it quite suddenly grows much narrower and takes on the appearance and the motion of a river between a headland on one side and a wide stretch of shore on the other. The bridge which connects the two banks at that point seems to make the change of state still clearer to the eye, marking the spot where the lake comes to an end and the Adda comes into being once more – though further on it again takes the name of a lake, as the banks separate, allowing the water to spread out and lose its speed among more bays and fresh inlets.” — Alessandro Manzoni, The Betrothed
We begin with this evocative passage by Manzoni to introduce you to the stunning beaches of Lake Como and to capture the essence of a landscape that has been celebrated by poets and musicians since the 19th century.
Among the most popular and well-equipped beaches on Lake Como, Lido Villa Olmo stands out. Located next to the historic Villa Olmo, at the end of the “Passeggiata delle Ville” (Walk of the Villas) in Borgo Vico, this beautiful facility offers a relaxing environment for all, with a pool overlooking the lake and a range of services designed for maximum comfort.
Another favorite is Lido di Cernobbio, which is particularly beloved by bathers. Its picturesque setting, nestled between the majestic villas of Villa d’Este and Villa Erba, makes it one of the most scenic spots on the lake. Cernobbio is known as the elegant “living room” of Como, and it is one of the most enchanting places to relax and enjoy a swim.
The beach at Menaggio is often considered the most panoramic on Lake Como, thanks to its elevated position offering spectacular views. This beach features a restaurant, a pool, and sunloungers with parasols for visitors’ comfort. Just next door, you will find the charming free beach of Lerai.
For those who prefer a more natural setting, Griante’s beach near Cadenabbia Lido, Argegno’s beach, and Lenno’s fine sandy beach offer tranquil spots for relaxation. For water sports enthusiasts, Colico’s beach is the go-to destination, famous for its ideal conditions for windsurfing and kite surfing, thanks to the perfect winds and air currents. If you’d like more information on the beaches of Lake Como, feel free to ask our staff
