Hello! I’m Luca. I grew up with the Breva wind, lake days, and that unmistakable feeling you only get here — and the place I come back to whenever I need silence, sunshine, and peace is Piona Lake. Locals call it “el laghett”. And it makes sense: Piona is a lake within the lake, a sheltered, quiet bay — a small natural wonder tucked between the mountains near Colico. One of those places you can pass without noticing… but once you discover it, you fall for it for good. The peaceful bay of Piona Lake, a natural hideaway on Lake Como 📍 Where is it? Piona Lake lies at the north-eastern end of Lake Como, on the Lecco side. It’s part of the municipality of Colico and it’s easy to reach by car or bike. On one side you have the Pian di Spagna Nature Reserve; on the other, the Olgiasca peninsula wraps around it like an embrace. How to get there By car: from Colico, follow the signs for Olgiasca. There are car parks near the beach. By bike: a beautiful cycle path runs along the lake from Colico towards the abbey. By boat: the best option if you want to moor up and sunbathe in total peace — it genuinely feels like being at the seaside in a cove, with yachts quietly anchored. What makes it special? It’s one of the few spots on the lake where swimming feels great all summer: the water is warmer, the bottom shelves gently, and it’s often cleaner and calmer. Perfect if you love a relaxed swim, a slow paddle, or simply reading with your feet in the water. The Olgiasca peninsula shields it from strong winds — ideal if you’re after tranquillity, even in the busiest months. If you’re arriving by boat… lucky you. 💬 A local note: When children learn to swim around here, this is where we bring them. “Go to the little lake,” our grandmothers used to say. Because it feels safe. And because it’s gentle — like certain childhood comforts. What to see and do at Piona Lake The area is wrapped in greenery and calm. You’ll often spot herons, grebes, swans — and, if you’re lucky, fish breaking the surface. You can go for long, easy walks along the shore or stretch out on the grass for a picnic. Or keep things slow on the water. The “little lake” is perfect for: SUP and kayaking, thanks to the calm water Gentle swims (you don’t need to be an expert) Pedalo rides, available to hire on the beach 🏛️ Piona Abbey At the tip of the peninsula stands the Cistercian Piona Abbey — a place that feels outside of time. Founded around the year 1000, it’s still home to monks today. The Romanesque cloister and the view over the lake from the terrace are among the finest on Lake Como. And if you’d like to take something home, try the monks’ herbal liqueurs. 💡 Local tip: Visit the abbey in the late afternoon, when the light softens and the silence feels almost sacred. In short: Piona Lake is a discreet little paradise — a lake within the lake — and locals call it “el laghett”. It’s close to Colico, and if you have a boat it’s the perfect place to sunbathe in peace. And for your stay, I’d recommend basing yourself in Bellano, in a Villa Vista Lago apartment. Check availability and book now