LAKEFRONT - VILLA GABRIELLA - Private - Independent - Amazing Lake Views !

After leaving my driving licence at home the holiday couldn’t have started any worse however that was soon to change.

We (Anne & I) made are way to Pognana Lario via the local (excellent) public transport system – very much a case of planes, trains and automobiles.

What I’ve failed to mention is that Robin and Eric (the villa owners) virtually held our hands (metaphorically speaking) during the journey from Bergamo to Pognana Lario and this is something we’re extremely grateful for.

Anyway upon arrival at the villa you’re hit with some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Como that we’ve ever seen. The tranquillity of the setting is only interrupted by the tolling of the bells at the local church and the chinking of our wine glasses as we toasted the fact that ‘we had made the right decision’ in choosing Villa Gabriella.

The villa itself is set over three floors and, if you can peel yourself away from gravitating to the balconies and the views (have I mentioned the views.....), it is furnished to a high standard and certainly catered for our needs.

The villa it situated a third of the way up the hill and can be reached either by road with ample car parking directly outside (assuming you have a driving licence that is) or by making your way through the meandering pathways through the village.

At the foot of the hill you’ll find a very friendly restaurant (I think it was called The Meridian) – it was always a good excuse to stop here prior to making our way to the villa.
Further in to the village you’ll find a couple of local bars (Peppo’s was our favourite as they welcomed us like we were members of their family) and a local supermarket that should cater for most of your needs (great selection of meats, cheeses, olives, local wines and breads – what more could you ask for).

Whilst many of the locals can speak English I would recommend that you take a Italian phrase book along as it made our life a lot easier – also the locals love to see you have a go at the Italian language.

So finally as this was the first holiday without our kids (sorry boys) and was a joint celebration of Anne’s 40th (she doesn’t look it) and our wedding anniversary we couldn’t have spent it in any more of a idyllic setting.

Our thanks goes out to Robin and Eric for all their assistance – as hosts you ‘Shine’.

Ciao
Mark & Anne