Europe’s Best Lake Escapes Beyond Como |
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Europe’s summer heat may be making headlines, but it does not have to derail your travel plans. When temperatures rise, one of the best ways to cool down is to head for the continent’s alpine lakes. Lake Como may be the best-known, but I can introduce you to equally beautiful alternatives with fewer crowds, better value and plenty of relaxed atmosphere. |
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Castello Scaligero di Sirmione, Lake Garda | Villa Cordevigo |
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In Italy, there is growing interest in the new luxury hotels opening around Lake Garda, about a two-hour drive northeast of Milan. It is the country’s largest lake, where crystal clear waters are framed by rugged peaks, vineyard-covered hills and historic towns that line the shoreline. The appeal lies in the variety, with elegant lakeside resorts, private boat outings, historic villages, and easy access to both the mountains and surrounding wine country. |
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Another Italian alternative is Lake Iseo, tucked between Garda and Como. It is quieter and less glamorous than its neighbors, but every bit as beautiful. With fewer visitors and a more relaxed atmosphere, it offers an authentic taste of an Italian summer. Its proximity to the Franciacorta wine region also makes it an appealing choice for travelers who want to pair time on the lake with vineyard visits and leisurely meals. |
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Lake Lucerne, Switzerland | Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne |
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Lake Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most memorable alpine experiences, about an hour from Zurich by car or two hours by train. Known as the gateway to the Alps, the lake is famous for its fjord-like coastline, unforgettable blue waters, and mountain views. One of the best ways to experience it is aboard an early 20th-century wooden steamship, many of which are included for travelers using a Swiss Travel Pass. |
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Right on the border with Italy and only a two hour drive from Milan’s airport or three hours from Zurich, make Switzerland's Lake Lugano your base and dive right into summertime fun. Hiking trails (like the walk up to Monte San Salvatore for grand views of the lake), boat trips, and idyllic towns dot the shoreline and make this lake a fantastic alternative to busier spots. |
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Grand Hotel Toplice | Lake Bled, Slovenia |
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You may have seen photos of Slovenia’s Lake Bled and its photogenic castle in the midst of a stunning, blue-green lake in the Julian Alps. Located in central Europe, Slovenia borders Croatia, Austria, Italy, and Hungary. Stay at one of the luxe lakeside wellness accommodations and pack your bathing suit. The lake is warm enough for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding in summertime, and keep an eye out for its elegant swans. |
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A short drive from Lake Bled is Lake Bohinj, which offers even more stunning alpine scenery, along with mirror images of soaring mountains on the still lake surface. Bohinj is where you come for peace and hiking for all those mountain feels. Here, you slow down, smell the wildflowers, and listen to the birds. |
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Find the lake that deserves a place on your next itinerary. |
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