Dream view - family apartment with terrace and garden

The Giardino apartment (Casa 2 Palme) is located on the southwestern edge of the historic village of Sormazzana, surrounded by nature. It’s just a stone’s throw from the adjacent forest, about 50 metres above lake level, offering a breathtaking view of the lake and the mountains in the background.

It’s part of the historic centre and has been in our family for five generations. The house was completely renovated in the early 21st century. It’s about 100 metres from the car park to the house, so we’re in a car-free zone. It’s peaceful here—you can hear the birds chirping in the adjacent forest during their morning concert and even the seagulls from the lake.

Activities

Excursions
Bellagio is a small, picturesque village. It’s ideal for strolling while enjoying a delicious gelato artigianale. A visit to the Villa Melzi park (more info in the brochures available in the house) is a must. Behind Bellagio, a steep road leads to the Passo del Ghisallo (a mecca for road cyclists, featuring a chapel, museum, and lookout point).

Como: A very popular outing among our guests is taking the bus (Corriera) to Como and returning by boat. There is a market in Como on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, as well as all day Saturday. The cathedral, Villa Volta, the lakefront promenade, and the cable car to Brunate.

Milan is reachable from Como (Stazione San Giovanni) by express train in 40 minutes.

Further excursion ideas can be found in the brochures available in the house.

Sports activities

Canoeing:
We own two canoes and allow our guests to use them. We assume no liability for any accidents. Please always wear life jackets! The paddles and life jackets are located in the basement; please return both to the house after use and let them dry.

Biking:
The main road along the lake towards Bellagio or Como, though narrow, offers the chance to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. Four bicycles are available for our guests’ use.

Walking:
Sormazzana is connected to various other parts of the village by pavements; there’s also a route down by the lake, and you can walk towards Bellagio as far as the next store.

Swimming:
It’s about 150 m from the house straight to the beach (Riva Bella). There are several public beaches in the village; they are all gravel or stone beaches.
Tennis: near the church (court reservations with Father Don Oreste)

Hiking:
There is a hiking trail that passes right by the house, the so-called Strada Regia (a very beautiful hike along the paths of the Romans), the first overland route connecting Como with Bellagio. Heading towards Como, you can reach Nesso in just over two hours; heading towards Bellagio, the trail goes as far as Ponte del Diavolo. For adventurers: Hike up to Sasso Calavarone—first to Carvagnana on the Strada Regia, then follow the signs—and you’ll be rewarded with a wonderful view. From there, we recommend descending to Nesso. For additional hiking suggestions, please refer to the maps and brochures available in the house.

Water skiing and wakeboarding:
at Ristorante Aurora or Crotto del Misto.

Barbecue
Our garden house features a fireplace that our guests are welcome to use for a fire or barbecue.

Wi-Fi – Internet Connection – We offer free Wi-Fi access.

Shopping
For fresh bread in the morning—the nearest store is Antica Bottega. Easily accessible on foot, about 50 m past Bar Calvasino.

You can shop in the village; on the main road (la Provinciale), there are “Alimentari” (supermarkets = corner stores) and a butcher shop.
On Tuesday and Thursday mornings, a fruit cart is parked not far from the post office.

Store hours: Tue – Sat 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (approx.)
Sun – Mon 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (closed in the afternoon)

Supermarkets are located in Bellagio (10