January on the lake
As the new year begins, Lake Como transforms into a winter wonderland of crisp mountain air, tranquil roads, and snow-dusted scenery. January is the perfect time to explore the region’s serene beauty, whether through scenic drives, unforgettable train journeys, or indulging in hearty winter cuisine. This month, we highlight scenic drives and breathtaking train trips to inspire your winter travels, plus our Ingredient of the Month: Veal and a comforting Recipe of the Month: Ossobuco alla Milanese.
Winter Scenic Drives and Train Journeys
Whether you’re winding through mountain roads or watching snowy peaks roll by from the comfort of a train, January is the perfect time to explore Lake Como’s stunning surroundings.
Scenic Drives Around Lake Como
The Triangolo Lariano Drive (Bellagio–Canzo Loop)
Why Go: This circular drive takes you through the scenic “Triangolo Lariano” peninsula between the two southern branches of Lake Como. Start in Bellagio, wind through charming villages like Asso and Canzo, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Stop for a cozy lunch at a local trattoria or explore small towns like Erba.
Highlights: Stunning lake views, serene mountain roads, and wintery charm in historic villages.
Valtellina Wine Road (Via dei Terrazzamenti)
Why Go: This drive leads you into the Valtellina Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and dramatic alpine scenery. Though the vines are dormant in January, the snow-covered terraces are just as enchanting. Follow the Via dei Terrazzamenti, stopping in Tirano or Sondrio for hearty winter meals and local wines.
Highlights: Sweeping views of snow-covered vineyards, historic villages, and rustic winter cuisine.
The Splügen Pass Drive
Why Go: Though the higher portions of the Splügen Pass may close due to snow, the lower stretches offer an unforgettable drive along the border between Italy and Switzerland. Start in Chiavenna and journey into dramatic mountain landscapes, stopping at viewpoints and small alpine villages.
Highlights: Breathtaking alpine scenery, picturesque mountain villages, and opportunities for snow hikes or hot chocolate stops.
Scenic Train Adventures
The Bernina Express
Why Go: Known as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, the Bernina Express takes you from Tirano (just north of Lake Como) into Switzerland. This UNESCO World Heritage route features soaring bridges, tunnels, and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. It’s a winter wonderland on rails, offering jaw-dropping vistas and cozy warmth inside the train.
How to Get There from Como:
Take a train from Como San Giovanni to Tirano, changing at Milano Centrale (total travel time: 2.5 hours).
From Tirano, board the Bernina Express and enjoy the ride to St. Moritz.
Highlights: Views of the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, the Bernina Pass, and glaciers as the train climbs to St. Moritz.
Insider Tip: Book a seat in the panoramic car for uninterrupted views, and dress warmly for brief stops at scenic points.
The Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway
Why Go: This picturesque train ride connects Domodossola, Italy, to Locarno, Switzerland, traveling through the stunning Centovalli (Hundred Valleys). In winter, the valleys are dusted with snow, offering a dreamy journey through quaint alpine villages, deep gorges, and dense forests.
How to Get There from Como:
Take a train from Como San Giovanni to Domodossola, changing at Milano Centrale (total travel time: 2.5 hours).
From Domodossola, board the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway.
Highlights: Rustic bridges, frozen waterfalls, and postcard-perfect scenery as the train weaves through narrow valleys.
Insider Tip: Sit on the right-hand side when heading to Locarno for the best views, and stop for a leisurely walk in one of the charming mountain towns along the way.
Ingredient of the Month: Veal (Vitello)
Veal is a cornerstone of northern Italian cuisine, especially in Lombardy, where it plays a starring role in traditional dishes. Its tender texture and delicate flavor make it the perfect ingredient for comforting winter meals.
Here are four ways to enjoy veal or beef:
Veal Meatballs with Sage and Parmesan (Polpette di Vitello): Tender veal meatballs seasoned with sage, parmesan, and breadcrumbs, then pan-fried or simmered in a light tomato sauce. Perfect as a starter or paired with creamy polenta.
Cotoletta alla Milanese: Breaded and pan-fried veal cutlet coated in golden breadcrumbs and parmesan. Often served with arugula or roasted potatoes, this dish is a Lombard classic.
Veal Involtini (Stuffed Veal Rolls): Thin slices of veal stuffed with breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, and cheese, then rolled and simmered in a tomato-based sauce. Hearty yet elegant.
Vitello Tonnato (Veal Tonnato): Thin slices of poached veal served cold with a creamy, tangy tuna sauce. A northern Italian classic often enjoyed as part of an antipasto spread.
RECIPE OF THE MONTH: Ossobuco alla Milanese
This iconic Lombard dish is the perfect winter meal, bringing together the delicate flavors of veal shanks with the vibrant aromatics of gremolata—a zesty mix of parsley, garlic, and lemon zest sprinkled on top before serving.
Ingredients:
4 veal shanks (about 2 inches thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
2 cups dry white wine
2 cups beef or veal stock
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Flour (for dusting the veal shanks)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Gremolata:
Zest of 1 lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
Instructions:
Lightly dust the veal shanks with flour, shaking off excess. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sear the veal shanks on all sides until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
Add the onion, carrot, and celery to the pan and sauté until softened.
Add the white wine, scraping up browned bits, and reduce by half.
Return the veal shanks to the pan. Add the tomato paste and stock. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours.
Combine lemon zest, parsley, and garlic for the gremolata. Sprinkle over the ossobuco before serving.
Serve with saffron risotto or creamy polenta.
Why We Love It: Ossobuco alla Milanese is more than just a meal—it’s a warm embrace on a cold winter day. The slow-braised veal shanks become melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the gremolata adds a bright and zesty contrast to the richness of the dish. Paired with creamy saffron risotto or polenta and a glass of Valtellina Superiore, this dish embodies the comforting flavors of Lombardy in winter. It’s the perfect way to bring a touch of Italian tradition to your January table.
Wine Pairing: Valtellina Superiore DOCG (Nebbiolo)
This bold red wine from Lombardy offers elegant tannins and flavors of cherry, dried herbs, and spices, perfectly complementing the richness of Ossobuco alla Milanese.
As January unfolds, Lake Como invites you to slow down and savor its winter magic—whether it’s winding through scenic roads, gliding along breathtaking train routes, or gathering around the table to enjoy a meal inspired by the flavors of Lombardy. Let the quiet beauty of this season inspire your travels and your cooking as we embark on a new year together.
We look forward to sharing more seasonal inspiration and culinary traditions with you next month. Until then, may your January be as warm and comforting as a bowl of risotto by the lake.
See you on the lake,
The Lake Como Kitchen Experience Team