We hit the road this morning interested to see Lake Como. We got straight into a climb along a busy road that wound its way through surburbia until we crested a hill and went through a short tunnel. As we came out the other side we got our first view of the lake. It was in between two houses but still looked pretty impressive!

First glimpse

We started a long twisty descent through a couple of small villages and we found ourselves on the edge of the lake. There wasn’t much time to enjoy it as the traffic continued to be very busy! Eventually we found a spot to stop, and took a few minutes to enjoy the view, as well as be confused by the school of large Koi carp that were mooching around just under our ledge.

Just chilling by Lake Como

WHY ARE YOU HERE??

We rode on, battling the busy traffic and trying not to be distracted by the lake for the rest of the morning and half the afternoon. Things improved where we hit a series of tunnels and were able to take the old roads by the lake while all the nasty cars took the new tunnels. Result. We had lunch in a brilliant little park that had working toilets (with toilet paper would you believe), as well as a water fountain and shady benches. Paradise!

As we got towards the north end of the lake, the traffic quietened down a bit and we were able to enjoy the views. They were great, there was always a new angle to check out, or something happening on the water to stop and watch.

Time to enjoy the view

Misty

Not a bike though is it?

Anna getting some peace and quiet

We had our pick of campsites for once, and we pulled into one in the early evening when we felt like we’d had enough. We were sickened one again by the new phenomenon we’ve experienced in France and Italy of having to pay for showers separately, but we managed to get over it and go for a delicious dinner of gnocchi and pesto down by the lake.

Aaah, time to kick back and relax!

After dinner we headed to bed to try and get some sleep, but the German couple in the caravan next to ours have other ideas and have all their mates round for a loud card game and drinking session. The church bell next to the campsite also rings every 15 minutes for some reason, so hopefully our earplugs are good!

– Dave