Lake Como, 1690: Tour and Immersive dinner

Lake Como, 1690: Tour and Immersive Dinner — A Journey Through Time and Taste

If you’re looking to combine a gentle stroll through history with a memorable dinner, this Lake Como experience offers plenty of charm. It guides you through the tiny, centuries-old village of Bonzanigo di Mezzegra, revealing its hidden corners, tales, and legends, before offering a dinner inspired by 17th-century recipes at Ali di Alice, a historic property dating back to 1690 with breathtaking lake views. With a price tag of around $147 per person, this three-hour journey balances cultural discovery with culinary delight.

What I particularly like about this experience is its local authenticity and the way it blends history with modern hospitality. The guide’s storytelling breathes life into the narrow lanes and ancient buildings, making history more approachable and fun. The dinner itself, inspired by the 17th century and served in a beautifully restored building, feels like stepping back in time — but with the comforts of today. A second standout is how the experience is quite inclusive: water, coffee, and a full menu are included, making it straightforward for travelers who want an all-in-one cultural and culinary outing.

One potential consideration is the limited schedule — check the availability early, as the start times vary and fill quickly. Also, keep in mind that alcohol and soft drinks are not included, so if you wish for wine or beverages, plan accordingly.

Key points / Takeaways
– Authentic Ancient Village: Small, evocative lanes and hidden courtyards make Bonzanigo a special find.
– Historical Atmosphere: The storytelling and artifacts add depth to your visit, creating a genuine sense of place.
– Stunning Location: Dinner at Ali di Alice offers lakeside views that elevate the entire evening.
– Gourmet 17th-Century Inspired Menu: From marinated lake fish to house desserts, the food pays homage to the past with modern flavor.
– Flexible Booking & Guides: Live guides speak multiple languages, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
– Review Highlights: Guests praise knowledgeable guides and the incredible views, with some noting the owner’s helpfulness in emergencies.

Discovering Bonzanigo: A Hidden Lakeside Gem

The tour kicks off with a walk through the tiny village of Bonzanigo di Mezzegra. This isn’t a touristy spot but a slice of local life, full of winding lanes, pedestrian porticoes, and quiet courtyards. Guided stories reveal legends that make the stones seem to whisper, and you’ll see artifacts of distant origin tucked into unexpected corners. It’s a chance to step back in time, experiencing the village’s ambiance as the sun begins to set.

Travelers often comment that the atmosphere is almost magical, with the evening light casting a warm glow over the historic buildings. The guide — whose name is often remembered as enthusiastic and knowledgeable — helps bring the past alive through stories of local history, legends, and anecdotes. The quiet charm of Bonzanigo makes it a perfect prelude to the next highlight: dinner.

Dining at Ali di Alice: A Historic Setting with a Gourmet Touch

The dinner takes place at Ali di Alice, a property dating back to 1690 with spectacular lake views. This isn’t just any restaurant — it’s a historical residence that feels like dining inside a piece of living history. The menu is carefully curated to reflect 17th-century culinary traditions, with dishes that include marinated lake fish, handmade pasta, and a choice of main courses such as lake fish in saffron stew or guinea fowl Brentano style.

The food is a highlight for sure, with several guests raving about the delicious flavors and beautiful presentation. The menu, which is seasonal, offers a balance of regional ingredients and old recipes, making each dish feel special yet authentic. The included water, coffee, and house desserts round out a complete dining experience that feels both indulgent and educational.

The Experience: What to Expect and How It Fits Into Your Trip

The tour begins at Via del Riale, 5 in Tremezzo, where you can park easily. It then moves through scenic routes to Bonzanigo, with the entire journey lasting about 40 minutes. After exploring the village, you’ll head to Ali di Alice for roughly two hours of dinner, making it a relaxed yet engaging evening.

The guided tour is conducted in English, French, or Italian, and the small group size ensures an intimate experience. The timing varies depending on the day, so checking availability ahead of time is wise — especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Guests appreciate that everything is included except alcohol, which they can purchase separately. The full menu offers a mix of starter, main course, and dessert, with the option to choose between vegetarian or meat/fish dishes. This flexibility makes it suitable for different dietary preferences.

Logistics and Practical Tips

Getting to Ali di Alice is straightforward — parking is available nearby, and the tour adheres to a three-hour timeframe. The experience is ideal for those wanting a cultural outing with a gourmet twist. It suits history and food lovers equally, as well as travelers seeking a quieter, more meaningful way to enjoy Lake Como beyond the usual boat tours.

While the price of $147 might seem steep for some, the inclusion of guided storytelling, a full regional menu, and the unique atmosphere of a 17th-century property offers good value — especially considering the personalized feel and authentic experience.

Plan ahead; check availability and start times, and remember that soft drinks and alcohol are extra. If you’re traveling with family or friends and enjoy stories, scenic walks, and good food, this experience will likely hit the spot.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This tour is perfect for those who love history, charming old villages, and authentic regional cuisine. It appeals especially to travelers who prefer small-group experiences that explore local stories rather than large, commercial tours. If you’re seeking an evening that combines education, scenic beauty, and delicious food, this will be a highlight.

It’s also ideal for couples or small groups looking for a romantic or intimate setting — the lakeside views and candlelit ambiance at Ali di Alice create a lovely backdrop. However, those craving high-energy activities or extensive sightseeing may find this too relaxed.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the experience is historical and culinary, it’s generally more suited for adults or older children who can appreciate the storytelling and gourmet meal.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The menu offers a vegetarian option, but it’s best to check ahead if you have specific allergies or dietary needs, as the menu may vary seasonally.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is transportation included?
Transportation to Bonzanigo is not arranged; it starts from the designated meeting point where you can park easily.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, French, and Italian, making it accessible for international travelers.

How long does the dinner last?
The dinner portion lasts approximately two hours, allowing for a relaxed pace of enjoyment.

Can I purchase drinks during dinner?
Alcoholic and soft drinks are not included in the price, so you may wish to bring or purchase beverages separately.

In essence, this Lake Como experience offers a charming blend of history, scenic beauty, and regional cuisine. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling, authentic settings, and good food without the rush of larger tourist groups. Whether you’re soaking in the sunset over the lake or savoring a saffron stew inspired by centuries past, you’ll come away with more than just photos — you’ll have stories, flavors, and memories to cherish.