A lot of important historical art works can be found on the shores of Como Lake. A very close example is the S. Nicolò Abbey, in Piona, which you can reach in about 30 minutes. Here the Benedictines take care of the gardens and produce their own spirits, honey, medicinal herbs and cosmetic creams. On the opposite shore, Tremezzo hosts an elegant villa, dating back to the 17th century: Villa Carlotta. Its museum and its refined botanical garden are surely worth a visit. Further down, in Lenno, Villa Balbianello, dating back to the 18th century, boasts a panoramic garden and some fascinating terraces overlooking the lake. If you don’t mind travelling a bit longer down the road (75 minutes), get to Bellagio and get ready to be charmed by Villa Melzi, probably the most beautiful villa on the lake, well-known for its spectacular gardens.