Laglio

Laglio is a sleepy village on the western shore of Lake Como, a leafy place of pines and palms and climbing vines. The town has about 1000 residents who enjoyed a tranquil life -until a famous star took up residence here. When word got out that George Clooney had a lakefront villa, Laglio suddenly became famous itself, and curiosity seekers and paparazzi descended. Off season it is still rather quiet, and the atmosphere is magical with pastel-painted buildings and lovely lake views.

The hills behind climb upward offering hiking trails and panoramas over the lake. You'll see hawks and falcons, as well as a variety of plants species. A bay oil is made here for medicinal purpose. The local cuisine focuses heavily on lake fish, of course, but also embraces land-based specialties, especially polenta. They make a nice cheese called Casoretta, which is 10% goat milk mixed with whole cows milk.

Don't miss the church of San Giorgio, Laglio's patron saint (not to be confused with "saint" George the star, haha). The church shows off lovely stucco sculptures by native artist Stefano Salterio. Up in the hills is the cavern called Grotta dell"Orso, the bear's cave, so-called for the fossils of an age-old bear found here.

Laglio boasts a nice lakefront promenade with beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains. It is a pretty place to visit during your trip to Lake Como.