The Lakes of Lombardy and in particular Lake Como are very special. Italy has more than its fair share of beautiful places, but few would argue that the lakes that nestle in the foothills of the Italian Alps are one of its finest assets.

The images stay with you forever. The early mist rising off the lake, church bells resonating off the water, flower-filled gardens reflected in the still, deep waters and numerous craft going about their business, criss-crossing the lake. Villages and towns of brightly painted yellow and pink houses rise from the shoreline up narrow, steep lanes to be lost in the hills and mountains that create such a dramatic backdrop.

Such an idyllic setting deserves an equally lovely place to stay. There is no shortage of hotels in the area and we have selected the Grand Hotel Menaggio set in a marvellous lakeside setting.