Hotel Olivedo
Varenna - Piazza Martiri 14
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Located just a few kilometres from Lecco, Varenna is a charming village nestled on the Lecco arm of Lake Lario, better known as Lake Como. Often called “the jewel of Lake Como“, Varenna is a captivating town positioned between the lake and the Parco delle Orobie Bergamasche.
From humble beginnings as a fishing village, Varenna has evolved into a fascinating town rich in Lombard-style buildings, grand palaces and ancient churches. It was from this very region that many of the Maestri Comacini – skilled craftsmen who were instrumental in creating much of Lombardy’s Romanesque heritage, both in Italy and abroad – are believed to have originated.
Varenna is a charming, human-scaled town that captivates all who visit, thanks to its historical and architectural heritage and the many activities on offer. Those drawn to history and art can explore the numerous historic residences in the area, whilst lovers of outdoor activities can organise countless excursions (on foot or by bicycle) along the surrounding trails.
The heart of Varenna village is Piazza San Giorgio, where the Church of San Giorgio and the Church of San Giovanni Battista overlook the square. From here, narrow cobbled alleyways and numerous flights of steps wind through the village, bordered by colourful houses and lush vegetation. The lakeside promenade is undoubtedly the most evocative area, lined with numerous restaurants and bars serving local cuisine.
Because of its enchanting scenery, Varenna is often considered an ideal destination for a romantic getaway, and the Lovers’ Promenade certainly confirms this impression. However, the promenade is without doubt one of the must-visit spots for all visitors (not just couples) upon arriving in town.
The route begins at the central square and leads to the small ferry terminal, passing beneath an intensely red arch adorned with climbing plants. During the warmer months, this arch becomes a glorious display of colourful flowers and fragrant scents.
The pedestrian path, approximately 250 metres long, is built dramatically on the cliff face and offers breathtaking views. Once you reach the terminal, the lake opens up before you, whilst above you can admire Vezio Castle.
The Church of San Giorgio is believed to have been first built in the 13th century on the remains of an ancient Roman temple, though it has undergone several renovations over the years.
The façade features stepped gables, while inside, the religious building has a rectangular layout with three naves. Within you can admire works of considerable artistic merit, including frescoes dating from the 13th century, a panel painting by Sigismondo de Magistris, and stone and marble sculptures believed to date between the 14th and 15th centuries.
Villa Monastero is a 16th-century building that once served as a Cistercian convent. After being purchased by the Mornico family, the property was transformed into a residence with an elegant garden. Today, the villa hosts conferences and meetings and functions as a museum house preserving period furnishings and decorations, as well as the collection of scientific instruments belonging to Giovanni Polvani (1892-1970). Polvani served as President of the Italian Physical Society and the Italian National Research Council. Surrounding the villa is a beautiful botanical garden stretching nearly 2 km along the shores of the lake.
The Vezio Castle stands on a promontory in the Val d’Esino, overlooking the town of Varenna from above. The fortress was built in the medieval period in a strategic location as a military outpost and defensive stronghold against enemy attack. Commissioned by the Lombard queen Theodolinda, the castle was enlarged and restored over the centuries and now features a quadrangular fortified wall with a square-based watchtower that visitors can climb to the top.
From the summit of the main tower, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Lake Lario with the Bellagio peninsula dividing it in two: on one side the Lecco arm, on the other the Como arm. Beneath the gardens lie underground chambers, partially accessible, which were part of Italy’s northern defensive system designed for use in case of a German attack through Swiss territory. The castle is also home to a bird of prey training and care centre, allowing visitors to learn more about the ancient art of falconry.
Villa Cipressi is a complex of buildings constructed between the 15th and 19th centuries in late Renaissance style. Initially the residence was part of the Serponti family’s estate, but the structure later passed into the hands of various prestigious figures before becoming a hotel with conference facilities. It is said that high-ranking guests such as Austrian Emperor Ferdinand I and his family stayed here.
The property features a magnificent botanical garden with terraces descending to the lake. The location and climate of the area make it possible to cultivate rare flora such as American agave and Mediterranean species including strawberry tree, myrtle, tamarisk and various types of palms.
For those who love outdoor activities, we recommend tackling the famous Sentiero del Viandante, a roughly 50 km route that hugs the eastern shore of Lake Como. The trail begins at Abbadia Lariana and passes through the towns of Mandello del Lario, Varenna, Bellano, Dervio, Colico, before reaching Piantedo.
Varenna sits roughly halfway along the trail, so from here you can choose to head in either direction. The Sentiero del Viandante is considered a truly spectacular walk that allows you to admire the distinctive profiles of the picturesque villages perched along the lake’s shores as well as the surrounding mountains.
Being a small, intimate town, Varenna has a limited number of accommodation options compared to other tourist destinations in the area. Therefore, the recommendation is to book your accommodation well in advance, as Varenna is often chosen as a base for exploring other locations around the lake. The town’s accommodation offering is nonetheless varied, boasting hotels, B&Bs and small apartments, though often at fairly high prices. The lakeside area is the most sought-after and offers several options with splendid views.
Thanks to its central location, Varenna is easily accessible by ferry, car or train and is well connected to both Switzerland and the Valtellina.
For those preferring water transport, Varenna is connected by ferries and boats to several towns on the lake, including Como, Lecco, Bellagio, Menaggio, Cadenabbia and Colico. Those arriving by car from either north or south should take the SS 36 Lago di Como and Spluga road to reach the town.
The town is also served by the railway station at Varenna-Esino-Perledo, situated on the Tirano-Lecco line. Those wishing to travel by coach can use the services provided by Lecco Trasporti, which connects Varenna to towns such as Bellano, Esino and Ortanella. The nearest airports, finally, are Bergamo Orio al Serio, approximately 65 km away, and Milan Linate, approximately 80 km away.
What's the weather at Varenna? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Varenna for the next few days.
Varenna is a picturesque village perched on the eastern shore of Lake Como. The town lies 70 km from Milan, 40 km from Como and 22 km from Lecco.
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