Let’s go to Lecco, ‘Alpine Town of the Year’ in 2013, and an understated-but-delightful gem at the south-eastern end of Northern Italy’s Lake Como. It’s only an hour’s train ride or drive from Bergamo or Milan before you check in at one of Lecco’s diverse accommodations. Will it be the salmon pink post-modern-meets-stealth-fighter NH Lecco Pontevechio on Via Azzone, the romantic B&B Il Lago Dipinto, or the Hotel Villa Giulia Ristorante Al Terrazzo? Lecco’s delights await...

Perfect for a charming, reasonably priced break

Lecco may not be as well-known as Como – an hour’s drive west along Strada Statale 36 – or even Varenna – 30 minutes north of Lecco, near the convergence of the lake’s arms. They may even be better bases for longer holidays spent exploring the lake. But for an utterly charming, very reasonably priced short break, Lecco offers the others’ character, scenery and culinary delights while being quieter.

And with the Trenitalia line through town, Milan, Bergamo and other attractions to the south are easily reached. Alternatively, head north to explore Varenna and the cobbled lanes and alleys of the lake’s lovely lakeside villages. You could even daytrip to Switzerland’s gorgeous Val Poschiavo.

Food, wine and Lecco

Italy is defined by its food and wine, and Lecco won’t disappoint. It is, after all, close to Valtellina’s famous terraced vineyards. You’re perfectly located to enjoy the Bacchanalian delights of wines such as Valtellina Superiore or Terraze Retiche di Sondrio. Now to food. Push the budget boat out with local fish specialities at pricey, but excellent, Al Porticciolo 84. Or combine low cost with quality at Pizzeria La Veranda on Corso Emmanuele Filiberto or Il Caffe, in central Piazza Mario Cermenati. Wherever you dine, don’t pass on the ice cream!

One of Italy’s highest church towers

Between lakeshore relaxation and delicious Lombardian cuisine, Lecco offers lots of interest. Attractions include the renowned bell tower of San Nicolò – one of Italy’s highest – and Giuseppe Garibaldi’s monument. For cycling fans, hire some wheels and enjoy leisurely lakeside rides. By the way, the Giro di Lombardia finishes in Lecco on 13th October 2018.

We loved Lecco and will visit again. Will 2018 or 2019 be the year you follow in Mark Twain’s footsteps and visit? Of course, as he recounted in ‘Innocents Abroad’, he only passed through en route to Bergamo. Naturally, we recommend that you spend longer here. Consigliato!