When speaking of Lake Como, one often thinks of flowering of parks and gardens in springtime. In that case, you cannot miss seeing just once, Villa Balbianello in Lenno, that today belongs to the Fondo Ambiente Italiano (Italian National Trust). The villa is situated on the tip of the Lavedo Peninsula, a promontory that juts out into the lake and from which you can see an enchanting panorama; or as many do, admire the boats during summer firework displays. Not far from the villa is the Comacina island the biggest island on the lake – the smallest being Visconti island located at Pescarenico at the beginning of the river Adda, in Lecco. Comacina island, located near the town of Tremezzina, was left in an inheritance by Giuseppe Caprani to King Albert I of Belgium who later donated it to the Italian State that subsequently ceded it to the President of the Academy of Fine Arts of Brera. The latter has transformed the island into a sort of village for artists. Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, is internationally known as the headquarters of a museum that hosts masterpieces of Canova, Francesco Hayez and other prestigious artists. It is also known for its famous botanical garden. Just on the other side of the lake is Villa Melzi which is located at the entrance to the town of Bellagio. Built in 1810 it was commissioned by the Duke of Lodi, Francesco Melzi d’Eril. The building has a sober and elegant aspect with a wonderful surrounding landscape. Finally, Villa Erba in Cernobbio near Como with the retro charm breathed into it by film maker Luchino Visconti and that today, within the villa and park hosts national and international cultural events. This location is really unique and inimitable.