Dervio

Dervio fans out over a point that juts into Lake Como, on the "right bank" of the lake. Behind it rise the impressive peaks of Mount Legnoncino (1714 m) and Mount Legnone (2610 m), that are part of the Alps. The beautiful and historic castle of Corenno Plinio with its stone-built hamlet, lies on an outcropping just to the north; the medieval hamlet is a must-see for its history as well as its panoramas.

Wander in the ancient cobbled streets and the stairs carved into the rock, and visit the church strangely dedicated to St Thomas of Canterbury. Then go back down to the lake, and you will be in front of the neoclassical dock built by the architect Luigi Cagnola.

Dervio's origins go back to ancient times, but with the Romans it went from a small village to a larger and charming town. After the Romans, came various dominating forces and a series of feudal lords, and control of Dervio alternated between Arcivescovi, Visconti and Sforza.

Perhaps the heyday of economic growth and splendor was under the Austrian rule, which set a number of industries, paper mills, and shipyards for shipbuilding.

Today, Dervio offers glimpses of history minged with modernity; while the shore of the lake guards the rugged and verdant valleys behind, the lake itself offers sports and enjoyment. There are some fine walking trails, along with mountain biking and horse riding. The climate is mild with fairly dry winters, cool and windy summers, ideal for holidays all year round for all ages.