June on the lake
As summer ripens on the shores of Lake Como, the rhythms of the lake begin to pulse with golden light, boat engines humming, and long lunches that drift into aperitivo hour. This month, we take to the water—exploring the most captivating ways to see the lake by boat, from glossy vintage wooden cruisers to charming self-navigated excursions. We also celebrate the luscious, sun-drenched orange—a fruit whose brightness and fragrance are woven through both our recipes and rituals—and introduce our Recipe of the Month: Orange and Fennel Salad, a vibrant ode to citrus season and summer’s bounty.
Boating Experiences
To experience Lake Como from the water is to see it at its most spectacular—villas rising from the hillsides, gardens cascading down to the waterline, and a breeze perfumed with linden and jasmine. Whether you’re gliding past Bellagio or pulling into a private dock for lunch, these are the best ways to set sail:
Como Classic Boats (Como): Cruise Lake Como in timeless elegance aboard restored Riva-style wooden boats, all helmed by experienced captains. Perfect for engagements, photo shoots, or simply soaking up la dolce vita. Website: comoclassicboats.com
Bellagio Boat Rental (Bellagio): Offers modern, license-free boats you can drive yourself—no experience needed. Located just minutes from the ferry terminal, it’s the easiest way to explore the lake’s most scenic central villages. Website: bellagiorentaboat.com
AC Boat Rentals (Menaggio & Tremezzo): A reliable, family-run service offering a fleet of well-maintained self-drive boats, plus classic boat tours with a captain. Their dual bases make them a great choice for exploring both arms of the lake. Website: acboatrentals.com
Hiring a Boat (Ossuccio): Curated private tours and water taxi services with a professional skipper, departing from Ossuccio—just steps from Sala Comacina. Ideal for sunset cruises, romantic rides, or visiting Villa del Balbianello in style. Website: hiringaboat.com
Top Locations to Depart From:
Como & Cernobbio: Best for southern lake routes and villa viewing (Villa d’Este, Villa Erba, Villa Pizzo).
Bellagio: Ideal for reaching Villa Melzi, Varenna, and the heart of the lake.
Ossuccio: Direct access to Isola Comacina, the only island on Lake Como.
Menaggio & Tremezzo: Great for touring both upper and central lake regions.
Note: For boats under 40HP, no license is required in Italy. Always bring ID and a credit card, and arrive early during high season. Most rentals require guests to be at least 18 years old.
Ingredient of the Month: oranges
Sun-drenched and bursting with perfume, Sicilian and Calabrian oranges brighten tables and market stalls across Italy with their dazzling zest and aromatic complexity. Whether folded into a citrus tart, paired with seafood, or simply sliced into a spritz at golden hour, they capture the sensual essence of summer with every vibrant bite.
Four Ways to Enjoy Oranges
Sicilian Orange & Almond Biscotti: Crisp, golden biscotti flecked with orange zest and toasted almonds—perfect for dipping into espresso or sweet Vin Santo, and a beloved treat across Southern Italy.
Pork Scaloppine all’Arancia: Thin slices of pork loin gently sautéed and simmered in a delicate orange and white wine reduction—an elegant dish from the Veneto that balances sweetness with savory depth.
Orange-Marinated Burrata with Herb Oil: Creamy burrata draped in fresh orange zest and segments, finished with a drizzle of olive oil infused with rosemary and thyme. A bright and elegant starter that blends citrus and cream with summery sophistication.
Orange-Infused Olive Oil Cake: A moist, fragrant cake with subtle citrus perfume and golden crumb.
RECIPE OF THE MONTH: Orange and Fennel Salad
A showstopping dish that bursts with color, texture, and flavor, this Orange and Fennel Salad is inspired by the vibrant summer markets of Lake Como. Juicy citrus pairs beautifully with crisp fennel, while toasted pistachios add crunch, and arugula adds a peppery bite. Finished with a drizzle of honey-lemon dressing and topped with shavings of Parmigiano-Reggiano, this salad is as stunning as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 large oranges
- 1 medium fennel bulb
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup arugula
- 2 tbsp toasted pistachios, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings
Instructions:
Slice off the top and bottom of each orange. Stand upright and carefully cut away the peel and white pith. Slice into thin rounds or segments.
Trim and thinly slice the fennel crosswise.
Toast pistachios in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Cool and chop.
Arrange fennel, orange, arugula, and onion on a platter. Scatter the toasted pistachios, mint, and Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings over the top.
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over salad.
Finish with Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings. Serve immediately.
Why We Love It: This salad perfectly captures the essence of Italian summer—vibrant, refreshing, and full of layered flavor. With the combination of citrus, herbs, nuts, and cheese, it’s both balanced and eye-catching.
Wine Pairing: Try a crisp Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi or a Franciacorta Brut for festive pairings that highlight citrus and elevate the Parmigiano.
June on Lake Como invites us to slow down, glide between shores, and savor summer’s most delicious rhythms. Whether you’re slicing oranges for a lakeside salad, raising a chilled glass of white in the golden light, or floating past historic villas with the sun on your face—this month is your invitation to indulge in beauty, flavor, and joy.
We can’t wait to share more flavors and stories with you next month. Until then, may your June be full of sunlight, easy pleasures, and meals worth remembering long after summer fades.
See you on the lake,
The Lake Como Kitchen Experience Team