“Just under an hour and a half from Stansted, Lake Como is a fantastic option for a short European break.”

Bethany Coatsworth

Day One: Arrival in Bellagio

Our trip began with a smooth flight from Stansted to Milan Bergamo, taking just under an hour and a half, which makes Lake Como a fantastic option for a short European break.

From the airport, a scenic transfer wound along the lakeshore before bringing us into the narrow, picturesque streets of Bellagio. The lovely team at Palazzo Genazzini greeted us at the door with a refreshing glass of lemonade before we settled in.

The rooms are beautifully designed, modern and elegant, with thoughtful touches throughout. My room had a private balcony with sweeping lake views, and chocolates, fresh fruit and Prosecco were waiting for us on arrival. Even the hairdryer is a Dyson!

We ended our first day with a four-course dinner and wine pairing at the hotel's restaurant, Ristorante Genazzini 1788, as the sun set over the lake. It was the perfect introduction to this beautiful destination.

Palazzo Genazzini: A Lakeside Escape in the Heart of Bellagio

Day Two: Silk Painting and Villa del Balbianello

The day began with a freshly prepared breakfast overlooking the water. I opted for Eggs Royale and a cappuccino while watching the lake life begin.

We then spent three hours on the hotel rooftop with a local artist for a silk painting session. It was wonderfully peaceful up there, away from the bustle of the streets below, and we each came away with a beautiful keepsake to take home.

After a light lunch, we set off on a private boat tour from the hotel's own dock, finishing at the famous Villa del Balbianello for a private tour of the villa and its grounds. Arriving in the late afternoon was ideal, as the crowds were beginning to thin. A water taxi carried us back to the hotel, offering incredible views of the property from the lake.

That evening, we joined Deputy Manager Samantha and Head of Concierge Fabiola for dinner at La Punta, a local favourite set right at the tip of Bellagio where the lake divides, framed by dramatic mountain views. Over dinner, we sampled local specialities such as rice with butter and sage and fried lake fish.

Day Three: Handmade Sandals, Varenna and Rooftop Cocktails

Our final day opened with the hotel's WOW Experience, which certainly lived up to its name. We visited Rolando, a family-run shoemaker that has been trading on Lake Como since 1949 and is now in its third generation. After hearing the family's story and learning how their shoes are crafted, we were each gifted a pair of their beautiful leather sandals, a truly unique experience and a generous touch from the hotel.

Next, we hopped on the ferry to Varenna, just €11 return, to explore this charming village, stopping for plenty of food and drinks along the way.

Back in Bellagio, we wandered the award-winning gardens of Villa Melzi before returning to the hotel for a rooftop cocktail masterclass, mixing Negronis, Martinis and Cosmopolitans.

We finished with a beautiful rooftop dinner as the sun went down, with canapés, pesto pasta and a delicious fruit tart. It was the perfect end to a magical trip.