THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Set sail from Bellano on Lake Como’s eastern shore with Boatique’s serene five-hour boat tour, visiting Varenna, Menaggio, and hidden natural wonders along Italy’s storied lake. Discover a side of Como few see from land.
Set sail from Bellano on Lake Como’s eastern shore with Boatique’s serene five-hour boat tour, visiting Varenna, Menaggio, and hidden natural wonders along Italy’s storied lake. Discover a side of Como few see from land.
Book with Boatique
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Boatique · Como, Colorado
Situated on the eastern shore of Italy's magnificent Lake Como, Boatique offers “The Call of the Lake,” a five-hour immersive boat tour that stitches together the rich tapestry of small villages and dramatic lakeside vistas in this storied region. Starting in Bellano, this journey heads northward, threading through the romantic streets of Varenna and pausing above the shimmering stretch of Menaggio. Far from a typical tourist cruise, each stop introduces you to authentic, lived-in atmospheres where northern Italian culture and history pulse through weathered piazzas and along rugged cliffs.
The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to witness Lake Como’s distinctive natural geography: towering limestone cliffs rise sharply from the water, dotted with rare Mediterranean flora like olive groves and ancient chestnut trees. The crystal-clear lake reflects these peaks, framing postcard-perfect views unique to this alpine basin. Boatique’s experienced captain not only navigates the waters with expert care but shares stories and local insights, revealing hidden coves and lesser-known landmarks often missed on land-bound itineraries.
Bellano itself holds historical significance, with parts of the village dating back several centuries, enriched by traditional fishing and trading. The tour’s pace allows guests to absorb the region’s serene yet vibrant character without haste. Boatique’s commitment to sustainable day tourism ensures that visitors enjoy these landscapes with minimal environmental impact.
Whether you’re drawn to the juxtaposition of natural grandeur and quaint village life, or simply seeking a deeper connection to one of Italy’s most iconic lakes, “The Call of the Lake” offers a memorable and genuine way to engage with Lake Como’s allure.
easy.
5 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous effort required.
Yes, the boat is family-friendly and safe for children, but supervision is recommended at all times.
Yes, the boat is equipped with onboard restroom facilities for guest convenience.
Guests are generally advised to bring water and light snacks, but no alcohol is permitted onboard.
The tour is primarily conducted in English but the captain can assist with basic information in Italian.
Pets are not allowed on the boat to ensure safety and comfort for all passengers.
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled for safety in case of severe weather; guests will be notified promptly.
Bellano has historical roots dating back to Roman times and was once a key fishing and trading port in the region.
Boatique follows sustainable tourism principles, minimizing environmental footprints and promoting respectful interaction with the lake’s fragile ecosystem.
Boatique is a boutique boat tour operator based on Lake Como, offering curated private and small-group excursions that highlight the lake’s landscapes, historic villas, and picturesque villages. With a focus on personalized experiences and safety, Boatique operates experienced-captain-led trips that include The call of the Lake, Two hours of pure magic, A four hours dream, and The gems of the lake. Each itinerary combines lake cruising with shore visits to towns such as Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio, Torno, and Nesso, featuring landmarks like Villa Balbianello, Villa Pliniana, and the Orrido di Nesso waterfall. Boatique provides complimentary refreshments on selected tours and adapts pacing to guest interests, from relaxed sightseeing to photo-focused routes. Boats are maintained to regional safety standards and captains are knowledgeable about local history, navigation, and weather conditions. Booking is available for fixed-duration tours—two, three, four, and five hours—designed for visitors seeking an authentic Lake Como experience. Boatique emphasizes reliable scheduling from Como’s public pier and other designated embarkation points, clear pricing, and transparent trip summaries so guests can select the right tour. Reviews highlight scenic routes, attentive captains, and memorable stops at villas and waterfalls. Reservations can be made online or through local partners, and groups are accommodated with attention to accessibility when possible, while captains provide turning points for photography, historical context, and recommendations for lakeside dining and village exploration options.
Book with Boatique