House of the Little Panther - 3 minute walk from the lake

Just south of Varenna lies the town of Lecco, beloved by Italians looking for a Lake Como getaway. The town itself feels small and the centre is walkable – you can get from the train station to the ferry terminal in just 10 minutes on foot. That’s not to say that there isn’t a wealth of shops, bakeries, and restaurants that you can dive into. You’ll find big name European stores like H&M, Calzedonia, and Carrefour supermarkets mixed in with local independent clothing and bookshops. The lack of touristy stands is apparent. Unlike Bellagio, you won’t find stalls selling fridge magnets and trinkets on every corner.

There are also the typical Italian piazzas, such as Piazza Garibaldi, where you can enjoy an espresso with a pastry while hearing a busker play. Afterwards, wander along the lakefront promenade with its well-maintained cycle lanes and rows of flowers with a generous scoop of gelato from Capo Horn Gelateria Artigianale. For the main restaurants and bars like Bottega del Maiale, L’EK Bistrot, and Cardamomo Persian Palace Lecco, head to Piazza Septembre where you’ll find alfresco dining areas and regular live music just a couple of streets back from the lakefront.

A short wander to the lakefront is rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains, such as Monte Rosa, Monviso, and Adamello, and you can often find families and couples sitting on the shoreline enjoying a picnic as the sun goes down.

Everything here moves a little slower. You can easily while away hours with a generous glass of Sforzato di Valtellina or Franciacorta and people-watch in the main square of Palazzo delle Paure. For panoramas of the lake and mountains, take a passeggiata to the Lungolago di Lecco viewpoint with its medieval ruins.

The lake and the surrounding mountains are excellent for hiking and climbing. Nibbio crag,Magnodeno Mountain, Monte Barro and Sentiero delle Pozze (or Path of the Pools) where you can take a dip in natural pools all along the route.

The living room is equipped with a sofa bed, coffee table, dining table, and 43’ TV with Netflix. The fitted modern kitchen space has all the necessary cooking utensils. The apartment also contains a refurbished bathroom with a walk-in shower. The bedroom features a wardrobe and the mattress promises for a relaxed night’s sleep. In the morning, wake up to Italian biscuits and coffee that will be provided. Only a 3-minute walk to the lake front, 10-minutes to the city centre and train station.

THE SPACE:
One living room with dining table.
Bedroom with a queen size bed and storage space.
Beautiful bathroom with walk in shower.
Kitchen with fitted amenities.