The green spaces to be found in the province of Como are all very different, but they are all very attractive.

From the lowland and hilly areas towards Milan, we move on to the lake with its villages and mountains as a backdrop. Large trees can be found almost everywhere, mainly due to the presence of hundreds of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century villas invariably surrounded by enchanting historical parks. Travelling in search of green monuments thus becomes a journey through wonder.

It is impossible not to be thrilled by breathtaking views of the lake, villages with timeless charm and gardens that attract tourists from all over the world with their architecture and tree treasures. Villa Olmo, Villa Balbianello, Villa Carlotta and Villa Melzi are only the most famous of a multitude of historical residences of immense elegance and beauty.

The large trees, sometimes coming from distant lands, play a fundamental role in the aesthetic and landscape balance of the area; they complement the wonderful views and raise the architectural value of many buildings even higher.

Even exiting the historic gardens, you can find trees that will leave you speechless. Amidst the dense forests that envelop the mountains and valleys of Lake Como, a few majestic tree specimens have managed to stand the test of time, in some cases becoming legendary for the local communities. Big trees with a big history. Beech trees, oaks and centuries-old chestnut trees are well worth a visit: they are the perfect spokesmen for natural and scenic beauties waiting to be discovered.

(Ph: Luca Pernechele)