Monday, September 15, 2008

Summary of Varenna

We found Varenna to be very charming. Although Bellagio is more
popular I wouldn't want to stay there. They claim that it is unspoiled
by tourists but with 200 residents in the center and 2000 beds in
hotels, I'll let you do the math.

Two quick things about Varenna. See in the attached photo the hill
just behind the church? There is a castle at the top and although the
view of the lake is fantastic I'd almost say the climb up there is
probably not worth visit. There really isn't much of the castle left,
just the watch tower. And even that has been rebuilt several times
throughout history. Look closely at the pic you can see the watch tower.
Second thing, visit to Fiumelatte, next door to Varenna. Fiumelatte
translates to "milk river". Basically it's a white water rapid that
they claim is the shortest in Italy. Now unless you're a real
naturebuff and have a thing for 60 degree incline paths then don't
bother. Believe me you've seen hundreds in Quebec. What is unique
though is that the river goes through the town below. The houses are
so squished together that their backyards open up to this roaring
water which is pretty cool.

And just a quick comment on this part of Italy, it's still Italy and
has that Italian charm but there is a hint of that Swiss anal-
retentiveness (Gio, remember Interlaken? Kinda like that) in the way
the rules are worded and how some shop owners speak to you.

All in all Varenna is a nice place but there isn't much to do. If I
were to plan it again I would cut it to one day unless we really just
wanted a place to relax.

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