We arrived in Varenna from the previous episode. Just take a break to get some energy.

So we can get to know each other a little bit.

https://en.readme.me/p/7769

As the sun began to set and the wind picked up, we decided to take a walk and introduce ourselves to Varenna. One advantage of visiting during this season is that it gets dark later. However, the downside is that the sun can be relentless until it finally sets. Even at six o'clock, it can still be quite hot.

Varenna is a lakeside town in the Lombardy region of Italy, situated 60 km north of Milan and easily accessible by local train on the Milan-Tirano line. Founded by local fishermen in 769, the town's colorful houses cascade down the hillside along Lake Como. Varenna, along with Bellagio and Menaggio on the opposite shores, are popular destinations accessible by boat. Today, Varenna, like many lakeside towns, has become a haven for wealthy individuals and celebrities, with numerous villas dotting the hillsides. Its convenient location and accessibility to other towns around Lake Como make it a popular tourist destination.

Our first stop upon arrival was the renowned Piazza San Giorgio, named after the city's main church, San Giorgio. The church, with its prominent bell tower, was unfortunately closed, preventing us from exploring its interior.

St. George's Square

San Giorgio Church, the city's main church.

After exploring the city's main church, we embarked on a scenic walk along the lakeshore. The path led us down a narrow alleyway between buildings, eventually opening up to a breathtaking view. The panoramic vista was truly worth a thousand words, leaving us speechless with its beauty. Simply standing there and soaking in the scenery brought immense joy. This lakeside view is said to rival the stunning beauty of Hallstatt in Austria, a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque lakeside setting.

A path leading down to the water's edge.

After capturing the beauty of the scene with our cameras and hearts, we strolled along the waterfront, passing by restaurants where people enjoyed food and drinks, soaking in both the delicious cuisine and the vibrant atmosphere. We browsed through charming souvenir shops, eventually stopping at a Gelato shop that had been voted the best in Varenna by Tripadvisor. We couldn't resist indulging in a scoop each, savoring the exquisite flavors while admiring the breathtaking views. It was pure bliss, and we couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. So, if you're feeling a tinge of envy, we understand – it was truly an unforgettable experience.

The empty shelves are a testament to the deliciousness of the food.

After indulging in the delicious gelato, we took a seat to soak in the lakeside view. Taking a moment to let our thoughts drift away like this is a welcome change of pace. For the past few days, we've been living in bustling metropolises filled with people, buildings, and modern conveniences. While these amenities offer comfort, they also bring with them a constant sense of hustle and bustle, often leading to unwanted stress.

Lake Como, known as Lago di Como in Italian, is located in the Lombardy region. Formed by glacial erosion and filled with meltwater as the Earth's temperature rose, it is the third-largest lake in Italy, covering an area of 146 square kilometers. With a depth of 400 meters, it is also one of the deepest lakes in Europe. Interestingly, the bottom of the lake lies 200 meters below sea level, resembling the wishbone of a bird, a symbol often used for making wishes.

Lake Como has been a vacation spot for the wealthy and elite since the Roman era, and it remains a major tourist destination due to its stunning scenery, with intricate mountains embracing the lake.

As we sat, our emotions and longing drifted away, just as the sun began to dip below the horizon. The flickering lights gradually turning on in the houses added a shimmering glow, further enhancing the dreamlike atmosphere of the lake.

This is the charm that captivates everyone, as if under a spell. Lake Como is a destination that makes everyone want to experience this atmosphere at least once. And so do we.

Visit our travel photos and say hello to Piyai and Noolek at:

https://www.facebook.com/TravelWithPiyaiAndNoolek/