our current digs are placed midway between milan and como
so it's a very quick and easy cruise up the autostrade to the lake
we pass through flat plains of crops with mountains as a backdrop
so yes similiarities with the scenery of the south island is agreed
the town of como hugs the bottom corner of one arm of the lake
toss the toy-motor into an underground carpark and join a queue
tickets purchased just as the gate opens and we wander on board
we are up for a 2 hour cruise up the lake to the town of bellagio
sitting on an open and covered deck to take in the many views
another perfect day with full sun (and screen) but not silly hot
a few whispy white clouds make for a very picturesque sky
and so it is too with the slowly changing views of lakeside
there are small villages in a near continual line on both sides
all of a similar construction and with red/orange roof tiles
combined with the greenery of the bush it's all very pretty
there are plenty of cameras being clicked on board today
a small cafe also on board allows for a nice cup of coffee
and without the required duty of driving it is very relaxing
a couple of hours slip by easily and we then arrive at bellagio
our all day passes provides for a hop-on hop-off experience
so hopping off for a 40 minute discovery of this lakeside town
mostly spent walking to a pier jutting out into the apex of the lake
the 2 large arms of the lake meet here so it is a unique panorama
back in the town we find a deli and purchase food and drinks
which then lines us up with the next departure to veranno
a short distance away and an easy walk after disembarking
this around the shoreline on a purpose built ramp to the town
we sit ourselves down on some flat steps running into the water
lunch - we consume our cooked chook, bread sticks and iced tea
what a view - behind us an outdoor restaurant offers the same vista
interesting - no-one seen swimming - anywhere - water too cold?
a quick paddle in the cool and clear water is enjoyed anyway
we have time then to clamber up some steps to the town proper
all built around a central piazza hosting a crafts market today
we walk into the church and admire the 12th century frescoes
there's a boat to catch and gelatos to be bought and enjoyed
done so as we wander back to the terminal and on to the ferry
what a fine vessel it is too - a sleek, low and long paddle-steamer
stepping on board reveals the fine condition of this special boat
varnished floorboards, polished brass and leather lounges abound
this is the ferrari of steamboats - proven as it powers off the pier
we are on top-deck and close to the loud horn blasts - yikes!
it's another very enjoyable 2 hour cruise on this ship to como
mostly spent top deck soaking up the sun and an italian beer
or going to the bow to enjoy the warm breeze in the face
tying up at the como pier takes a couple of attempts
all done in good humour by the lovely italian crew
similarly attired lads and ladies all enjoying their work
and confirming that life and times in italy are taken at ease
it's back home for a risotto dinner, wine and more relaxation...
