5 Reasons Why Lake Como Is The Unexpected Winter Wonderland Destination Of Your Dreams

For many travelers, Lake Como is one of the dreamiest destinations in all of Italy. Nestled in the mountainous Pre-Alp region north of Milan, the 29-mile-long lake and the picturesque villages that line its shores have bewitched people since the Roman times, when even famous authors Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger were drawn here, eventually setting up residences. 

The lake is buzzing in summertime, when the shoreline vegetation is lushly green and swimming in the refreshingly cool waters provides a welcome respite from the heat. People flock from all over the country and the world to see this bucket list destination in full swing. What most people don't realize, however, is that Lake Como is equally glorious in the winter. From snowy landscapes and cozy seasonal cuisine to the benefits of traveling when there are fewer crowds, here are several reasons Lake Como is a perfect winter vacation spot.

The cooler months see temperatures drop into the 30s and 40s and the surrounding mountains turn snowy white, contrasting brilliantly with the deep blue water. In these crisp colder months, the blue sky is simply dazzling on a clear day and the sunsets are spectacular, as the setting sun's orange and pink hues illuminate the snow-capped mountains and reflect off the shining surface of the lake. It's the perfect time to get frame-worthy photographs on your trip.

Though chilly, Lake Como doesn't freeze over in the winter. So it's still possible to bundle up and hop on a ferry to visit the many charming villages dotted around the lake and take in the surrounding landscapes from a unique vantage point on the water. You may also catch a glimpse of swans during their courtship season over the winter, dancing along the surface of the lake and intertwining necks once they've found their lifelong mate.

The towns on the lakeshore are enchanting no matter what time of year you visit. But these villages have a distinct charm during the Christmas season, especially when dressed up in their holiday finest. Injecting brightness and warmth into dark winter evenings, Lake Como's city centers come alive with twinkling lights, exquisite nativity scenes, and other festive decorations. Even in the smaller villages around the lake, houses sparkle, creating a magical spectacle throughout the entire Como region. 

Besides decorations, winter visitors can find an array of holiday-themed events around Lake Como, such as cheerful Christmas markets in most town and city centers. At these markets, you can shop for local foods, beverages, art, handmade jewelry, and other trinkets. For example, the vibrant market in the town of Brienno is held under some "portici" (arches) and features a cheerful Santa's house and refreshment stops, with opportunities to sample local delicacies and wines. Other holiday-themed events include special performances and concertos, such as the series put on by the Teatro Sociale di Como.

The cuisine in the Lombardy region, where Lake Como is located, is quite varied, with many dishes centering on both fresh and dried lake-caught fish. Some of the traditional meat and grain dishes, however, originated with hard-working farm families and tend to be on the heavier side. As these dishes are far more appetizing in colder weather, visiting in winter is a perfect opportunity to try them, as long as you're not on a low-calorie diet!  

Some not-to-miss regional dishes that are sure to stick to your ribs on a chilly day are polenta uncia (cornmeal with butter, cheese, sage, and garlic), brasato di cinghiale selvatico (wild boar braised in wine), risotto con filetti di pesce persico (creamy risotto with fried perch fillets), and casseoula (pork and Savoy cabbage), the latter being a winter favorite. Another Como specialty is pizzoccheri, thick strands of buckwheat pasta with cabbage, potatoes, and garlic, with plenty of butter and cheese. To sample these unique Lombardian dishes, avoid tourist-trap restaurants and head to an authentic osteria or trattoria instead. Here's how to find the best authentic restaurants in Italy.

Another great thing about exploring the Lake Como area in winter (you may have already guessed this one, but we need to stress it anyway) — fewer crowds. Imagine experiencing the splendor of the lake without having to share it with zillions of others. Nobody travels halfway around the world to Italy to wait in line or sit ensnarled in traffic. But that's exactly what may happen if you come to Lake Como during high season. A professional driver near Lake Como told CNBC: "Some days it can take an hour to go 10 kilometers [about 6 miles]...Many towns can only have traffic go in one direction, so everyone has to wait." 

During the winter season in Italy and especially Lake Como, there's not only less traffic but also shorter lines to purchase tickets for things like ferries and funiculars. (Yes, these run in winter but may be on different schedules.) You won't have to worry as much about tickets selling out for the most popular tours and attractions, such as some of the historic villas. And best of all, you may even have moments of solitude around the lake, which adds an entirely new dimension to the experience. Imagine walking along the shoreline after a recent snowfall, the crunch of snow under your boots the only sound piercing the immense silence. 

Finally, coming to Lake Como in winter opens up new realms of possibility in terms of outdoor activities. You probably won't want to water ski or wakeboard in the freezing lake, unless you are part polar bear. But you can embark on a winter hike on a deserted lakeside trail, snowshoe in the surrounding hills, or ice skate in rinks set up in some of the city centers (like Como, Cernobbio, and Menaggio, just to name a few).

Skiers can combine a winter trip to Lake Como with visits to some of northern Italy's amazing ski resorts and hit multiple dream destinations during the same vacation. From the western side of the lake, day trips are possible to many different ski areas. For example, the small but family-friendly Piani di Bobbio is less than a 30-minute drive from the Lake Como town of Lecco and has varied terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. One of the most affordable Italian ski destinations, Livigno, which is also Lombardy's largest and most well-known ski area, is a little farther away but still doable as a day trip from a town like Bellano on the northwestern end of the lake.