Inside our itineraries: Behind the scenes on Kelly-Anne's Lake Como escape
Get the inside track on one of Europe’s best rail journeys as we speak to our Lead of Copy and Communications, Kelly-Anne, about her recent trip to Lake Como.
While images of Rome’s ancient monuments or the Mediterranean shores of Sicily might spring to mind when many people think of Italy, the north of the country is every bit as memorable. Comprising some of Europe’s most iconic cities, from Venice to Milan, and a wide range of enchanting natural landscapes, Northern Italy is well worth a visit. Of the region’s many highlights, elegant Lake Como stands out. Here, towering alpine peaks, still waters, and opulent villas come together to offer the ideal backdrop to an escorted tour.
What does it look like on the ground, though? We recently caught up with Kelly-Anne, who had the pleasure of visiting the region in September. From her personal highlights and thoughts on each location to the tips she’d give to travellers considering an Italian escape of their own, here’s what she had to say.
1. What was a wish-list moment of your trip?
Watching the sun set over Lake Como every evening, as it dipped behind the mountains and illuminated the water. A close second was sipping an Aperol Spritz in Milan with the Duomo right in front of me.
2. Did this trip change the way you think about Italy?
I've seen a lot of Italy, but this was my first time on Lake Como, and it showed me a completely different side of the country. Away from the big cities, life moves at a gentler pace, and every view seems to be framed by mountains and water. Seeing the lake from a boat finally made it clear to me why people have been falling for it for centuries.
3. Was there an unexpected experience that turned out to be a highlight of the trip?
The boat cruise. We set off in mist and drizzle, and I wasn't sure what we'd see. On the way, we learned about the stories behind the grand lakeside villas, including who built them, who owns them, and which famous faces have stayed in them. I loved every bit of it, and the lake took on a beauty of its own. By the time we reached Villa del Balbianello, the clouds had lifted over its terraced gardens. It was easy to see why filmmakers have used it as a setting. Casino Royale and Star Wars: Attack of the Clones were both filmed there. It turned out to be one of my favourite days.
4. Our customers love rail travel, and the Bernina Express is always popular. Did it live up to your expectations?
It went beyond them. From the moment the train began its climb into the Alps, everyone was glued to the windows. The windows themselves are huge and allowed us to take in panoramic views of the glaciers, mountain passes, and sprawling turquoise lakes. We had clear, blue skies all the way, and the moment you stepped off the train in St. Moritz, the air felt so incredibly fresh. If you've ever dreamed of a great rail journey, this is one to tick off.
5. Which hotel did you stay at and what did you make of it?
Hotel Griso Collection in Malgrate, and I couldn't have asked for a better base. Most guestrooms have a large private balcony looking straight out over the lake and mountains, and breakfast is served in a stylish room with the same view. The lakeside promenade, with its restaurants and bars, is moments away, and the centre of Lecco is an easy 20-minute stroll. At the end of a day's sightseeing, there's an outdoor Jacuzzi, a good bar, and a restaurant to come back to.
6. What local dishes or culinary moments wowed you the most?
Risotto con filetti di pesce persico, the signature dish of Lecco's lakeside – a creamy white wine risotto topped with lake perch fillets, pan-fried in butter and sage. I had it in Lecco, and it's absolutely delicious.
7. Were there any local traditions or chance encounters that added something special to your tour?
The evening aperitivo quickly became a ritual – an Aperol Spritz overlooking the lake as the sun went down. Our tour manager, Fabrizio, made the whole trip feel seamless. He knew the stories behind every view and place, and his recommendations led us to some of the best meals of the week.
8. What practical tips would you share to help others plan the perfect trip here?
Bring comfortable shoes. The best moments, from the cobbled streets of Bergamo's old town to the paths across the islands, are found on foot. I’d also recommend packing a light waterproof, because the lake has its moody days, and they can be beautiful in their own way. In St. Moritz, grab a picnic and sit in the lively main square, and always ask your tour manager where to eat.
9. If you could sum up the feeling of this place in three words, what would they be?
Serene, scenic, unhurried.
10. Would you go back, and if so, what would you do next time?
Without hesitation. Next time I'd hop over to Varenna, apparently one of the prettiest villages on the lake, which will feature in the 2027 itinerary. A few customers took the train there on their free day and came back raving about it.
Live your own Lake Como story with Newmarket Holidays
Whether you’re keen to take in one of the continent’s greatest rail journeys or fancy living la dolce vita in Northern Italy, our featured itinerary, Lake Como, St. Moritz & the Bernina Express, is the perfect choice. To secure your spot on one of next year’s departures or for more information, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today.
