If you’ll indulge me, I want to share a slice of my life on Lake Como. This magical place is not just my home; it shapes how I live, how I cook, and how I see the world. Every day, I wake up in awe of the beauty around me, deeply grateful for this corner of paradise.
From every window, there’s a postcard-worthy view. My tiny galley kitchen overlooks a charming village painted in hues of amber, pink, and burgundy. The bedroom window frames a church clock tower and a solitary mustard-yellow building that juts dramatically into the lake. And from the open-plan lounge and dining area, I see the lake stretch endlessly, bordered by mountains and dotted with villages that sparkle like fairy lights when night falls. The lights ripple across the water, creating painterly streaks of colour that mesmerise me.
The birdlife here is enchanting. I’ve made friends with a swan I call Sydney. He occasionally eats from my hand—a thrilling yet nerve-wracking honor given the size of his beak! Then there’s Donald, the only albino duck on the lake, strutting confidently despite his gammy leg. And the coots? They’re delightful little comedians.
We arrived here on New Year’s Eve under clear blue skies and the stark beauty of bare winter trees. The lake’s winter reflections are strikingly different from summer’s lush greens, with the water taking on a silky, warm, orangey-brown hue. It’s crisp and cold, the kind of weather that invigorates me. Indoors, the central heating keeps us cozy, while scarves, beanies, and puffer jackets make outdoor adventures both comfortable and forgiving (thankfully hiding any lingering holiday indulgence!).
This place is my sanctuary—a cocoon where I feel safe and whole. I can simply be here, observing the world without boredom. On this lake, I’ve laughed, cried, reflected on life’s big questions, healed old wounds, and celebrated new joys. I’ve shared glasses of wine with friends, swum in crystal-clear waters, and cooked my heart out in my tiny kitchen, belting out my favorite songs.
Cooking here is always an adventure. The tiny kitchen has seen me host everything from intimate dinners for two to celebrations for sixteen, where the table stretches to accommodate everyone. The Italian philosophy of embracing seasonal produce has influenced my approach. Winter means no imported produce—so no tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, or avocados. Salad isn’t a winter staple here! Instead, it’s all about hearty soups, stews, slow roasts, and grilled vegetables—dishes that nurture and comfort.
Life on the lake is everything to me: vibrant, serene, nourishing, and inspiring, no matter the season.
In the spirit of sharing, I’ll follow this with a couple of my favourite recipes from the lake—perfect for when the weather turns cold – a Ribollita Soup and Aubergine Parmigiana.
