For those whose idea of heaven is palatial villas, rose-laden belvederes, hanging wisteria and bougainvillea, lanterns casting a glow over lakeshore restaurants, and majestic Alpine vistas, heaven is Bellagio town on Lake Como.
Whether you’re after a picturesque mountain vista, a spot to watch the sun set or a table overlooking sparkling waters, La Terrazza Belvedere put it all together to dine with the best view on the Lake Como.
Sometimes called the prettiest town in Europe, Bellagio always seems to be flag-bedecked, with geraniums ablaze in every window and bougainvillea veiling the staircases, or montées, that thread through the town. At dusk Bellagio’s nightspots – including the wharf, where an orchestra serenades dancers under the stars – beckon you to come and make merry. It’s an impossibly enchanting location, one that inspired French composer Gabriel Faure to call Bellagio “a diamond contrasting brilliantly with the sapphires of the three lakes in which it is set.”
If you’re looking for one of the most romantic dining experiences in town go to the Belvedere Hotel. In Italian, Belvedere means “beautiful view,” an apt description of this enchanting spot. The hotel has been in the Martinelli-Manoni family since 1880, and the unbroken tradition of service makes it one of the best places to stay and dine in town. Antique chairs and eye-catching decoration complement the modern, understated designs. Outstanding terraced gardens have replaced the vineyards that once surrounded the house. Among all that beauty stands the restaurant La Terrazza.
This elegant restaurant offers amazing food and a superb location, with a large terrace poised over the lake and gardens. The view can be enjoyed at its best at sunset when it turns the small harbour of Pescallo and the Rockefeller Foundation on the hill in its nocturnal version offers an unforgettable sight. We enjoyed unspoilt views of the harbour and a welcoming environment where you can dine in from mid-April to mid-October.
La Terrazza Belvedere treats every ingredient as though it were a special mission. This is evident starting from the Lobster with vegetable escabeche, home-made fresh pasta with wild asparagus, rosemary browned octopus and classic Chianina beef carpaccio with “Cipriani” sauce – cream. The local freshwater fish is your best option, but a wide range of seafood and meat dishes are capably prepared. We highly recommend the Fish of the day in a salt crust and the Wild salmon. Those who prefer something sweet can opt for a wide range of fresh home made desserts accompanied with a signature cocktail or a chilled prosecco.
Indulge yourself with mesmerising Mediterranean specialities while enjoying the cool breeze from the mountains, slopes and waters that, just days or hours earlier, surrendered their bounty for your meal… indulge yourself with La Terrazza Belvedere!
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