Capping the hill over Varenna — a stiff 20-minute huff above the town square — an old castle provides views across the entire lake. Hiking back down into Varenna, you enjoy sweeping views of olive groves, cypress trees, and hamlets hugging the shoreline. After a busy day’s hike, it’s time for dinner. 4 things every tourist needs to know about Lake Como. Nestled in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, Lake Como is renowned for its natural beauty with pristine blue waters, majestic mountains and charming villages. Here’s what you need to know about this dreamy destination. Sabine Leroy. less than 2 min read. October 5, 2023 - 9:15AM. Escape. Some of these Historic Villas of Lake Como are now world-famous and play host to thousands of visitors every year: – Villa del Balbianello, built in 1787 by Cardinal Angelo Durini, and more recently made famous by Star Wars and James Bond movies; Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo and Villa Melzi in Bellagio, famous for their stunning formal gardens A scenic one-hour train ride from Milan brings visitors to Varenna, Como San Giovanni (centre) or Como-Lago (lakefront). From Malpensa airport, switch in Saronno without having to go into central Considered one of Lake Como’s most famous (and Instagrammable) gardens, Villa Balbianello was known as a favored retreat for writers, academics, and high-profile society figures in the 18th century. It was also the filming location for several films, including Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, Casino Royale, and A Month by the Lake The chef's new series explores little-known areas of Italy, but he couldn't resist a detour to glamorous Lake Como Claire Webb Published: Monday, 24 October 2016 at 4:30 pm Villa del Balbianello: Star Wars and James Bond at Villa del Balbianello in Lenno on Lake Como Italy - See 3,519 traveller reviews, 4,109 candid photos, and great deals for Tremezzina, Italy, at Tripadvisor. Footage taken in March 2006 of Villa Balbianello, on Lake Como, Italy. Filming location for Star Wars: Attack of the Clones and James Bond: Casino Royale.Rel WfucF.