August 2018
We had a fantastic time. We arrived at the apartment late at night and in the dark. Finding it wasn't too bad, although the directions could stipulate that at the third hairpin bend you go straight across because in the dark you can't see the coloured houses mentioned.
The balcony was the best bit of the apartment. We're a family of five but it was big enough for us all and it has a wonderful view of the lack and hills that you can sit and stare at for hours. The apartment is also next to the pool which is really convenient. And the pool, while small, doesn't get busy and is a lovely spot with another great view of the lake. The apartment complex as a whole is well kept and quiet and a lovely relaxing place to be.
What we loved was the fact that you can walk into the town of Argegno in five minutes. It's downhill all the way (and so a climb back) and it takes you through the lovely alleyways and cobbled ancient backstreets of the old town with its characterful buildings. On the way you'll pass a family run restaurant (which you can see from the apartment) which is worth a try. And there is a little square in Argegno with restaurants and bars. La Piazzetta is worth a try but expensive. We went for pizzas which for the vegetarians amongst us weren't very good. But if you can pay a bit more I'm sure the quality of the food is good. Barchetta is also good and more reasonable. Also try the ice-cream parlour which is popular and the coffee shop next to La Piazetta.
We loved Argegno. It's small but still retains its character and its a good place to explore the rest of the Lake. Take the cable car up to Pigra which gives you a great view of the lake. You can also catch the boat from Argegno which (for about 75 euros for a family of five adults and one child) takes you to the main towns nearby - Bellagio, Varenna etc. Make sure you get the first boat of the day 10.10 otherwise the boat and the stop-offs get packed. For swimming - go the Lido at Ossuccio. Get there in the morning when it's quiet so you can get your beach towels down. There's a bar and a place to swim/jump in the water from. Lenno is a nice place to visit as are Tremezzo and Mennagio. For supermarkets, your best bet is a short 10-15 minute drive south towards Como to Bennets which is huge and sells everything you'll need.
We stayed for 8 nights and we loved it. We'll be back one day!
Neil, UK