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Gastronomic specialties of Lake Como: the Toc

Il Toc Bellagino: a dive into the traditional flavors of Lake Como

Italian cuisine is renowned for its extraordinary variety of regional dishes, each of which tells the story and culture of the place it comes from.

Among the many delicacies of Lombardy, the ‘toc Bellagino’ stands out as a symbol of authenticity and genuine flavors.

This dish, rooted in the peasant tradition of Lake Como, represents a unique and engaging culinary experience.

The Toc

Bellagino toc is a variant of polenta, but with characteristics that make it special.

The base of the dish is cornmeal, which is slowly cooked in a copper pot. To this, butter and local alpine cheese are added, which, melting slowly during cooking, give the dish a creamy texture and an intense flavor.

Preparing polenta takes time and dedication. The mixture must be stirred continuously with a wooden spoon, a gesture that requires patience but is essential to achieve the right consistency and prevent the polenta from sticking or burning.

This process not only allows for a smooth and velvety dish but also enables the flavors to blend perfectly, creating a balance between the sweetness of the cornmeal and the saltiness of the cheese.

Typical tastings at TreeB hut

Toc Bellagino is not just a dish, but a true social ritual.

Traditionally, it is served directly from the cauldron onto a wooden board placed in the center of the table. The diners sit around, ready to share this tasty dish, often accompanied by condiments such as cured meats, meat, or vegetables.

This way of serving the wine promotes conviviality and the pleasure of being together, reflecting the hospitality and warmth typical of the local culture.

If you want to experience the authentic taste of Bellagio, Baita TreeB Bellagio is the perfect place to do so. Immersed in nature and with a spectacular view of Lake Como, the hut offers a perfect environment to savor this traditional dish.

“Alla Baita TreeB Bellagio, the toc is prepared following the traditional recipe, using high-quality ingredients and with the same care and dedication as in the past.

Our chalet hosts private and corporate events, offering a chance to enjoy the delicious flavors of Bellagino in a cozy, rustic setting.

This makes the experience even more special, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and flavors.

Private event at Baita TreeB Bellagio
Once emptied, the cauldron, without being washed, is used to prepare Ragel, a special mulled wine, ideal for digesting such a substantial dish as Toc. I

Ragel is a red wine-based drink, enriched with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, sugar, grated orange and lemon zest, and a chopped apple.

Once all the ingredients have been added to the pot, it is returned to the heat: the alcohol in the wine evaporates and is ignited, creating a spectacular flame effect, perfect as a backdrop to some traditional tale. When the alcohol vapors are exhausted, the Ragel is ready to be enjoyed.

The secret of this drink lies in the residue of Toc that remains in the pot: the flavor of polenta adds an indescribable touch, making Ragel a delicious and unique digestive.

The ragel
The toc Bellagino is much more than just a dish. It’s a journey through the authentic flavors of Lombardy, an opportunity to rediscover the culinary traditions of the past and to appreciate the beauty of sharing a meal.
Prepared with genuine ingredients and through a time-consuming and passionate process, our dish is the perfect expression of country cooking, where every gesture and every flavor tells a story.

At Baita TreeB Bellagio, this story comes to life, offering visitors a unique opportunity to savor a dish that encapsulates the essence of Lombard tradition and hospitality. So, the next time you find yourself on Lake Como, don’t miss the chance to taste the Toc Bellagino and let its flavors and history transport you.

From a simple barn, we have created a shelter that not only respects the environment but also offers an unparalleled living experience.

Discover Baita TreeB and the experiences we organize

Gastronomic specialties of Lake Como: the Toc Read More »

Gastronomic specialties of Lake Como: the Toc

Il Toc Bellagino: a dive into the traditional flavors of Lake Como

Italian cuisine is renowned for its extraordinary variety of regional dishes, each of which tells the story and culture of the place it comes from.

Among the many delicacies of Lombardy, the ‘toc Bellagino’ stands out as a symbol of authenticity and genuine flavors.

This dish, rooted in the peasant tradition of Lake Como, represents a unique and engaging culinary experience.

The Toc

Bellagino toc is a variant of polenta, but with characteristics that make it special.

The base of the dish is cornmeal, which is slowly cooked in a copper pot. To this, butter and local alpine cheese are added, which, melting slowly during cooking, give the dish a creamy texture and an intense flavor.

Preparing polenta takes time and dedication. The mixture must be stirred continuously with a wooden spoon, a gesture that requires patience but is essential to achieve the right consistency and prevent the polenta from sticking or burning.

This process not only allows for a smooth and velvety dish but also enables the flavors to blend perfectly, creating a balance between the sweetness of the cornmeal and the saltiness of the cheese.

Typical tastings at TreeB hut

Toc Bellagino is not just a dish, but a true social ritual.

Traditionally, it is served directly from the cauldron onto a wooden board placed in the center of the table. The diners sit around, ready to share this tasty dish, often accompanied by condiments such as cured meats, meat, or vegetables.

This way of serving the wine promotes conviviality and the pleasure of being together, reflecting the hospitality and warmth typical of the local culture.

If you want to experience the authentic taste of Bellagio, Baita TreeB Bellagio is the perfect place to do so. Immersed in nature and with a spectacular view of Lake Como, the hut offers a perfect environment to savor this traditional dish.

“Alla Baita TreeB Bellagio, the toc is prepared following the traditional recipe, using high-quality ingredients and with the same care and dedication as in the past.

Our chalet hosts private and corporate events, offering a chance to enjoy the delicious flavors of Bellagino in a cozy, rustic setting.

This makes the experience even more special, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and flavors.

Private event at Baita TreeB Bellagio
Once emptied, the cauldron, without being washed, is used to prepare Ragel, a special mulled wine, ideal for digesting such a substantial dish as Toc. I

Ragel is a red wine-based drink, enriched with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, sugar, grated orange and lemon zest, and a chopped apple.

Once all the ingredients have been added to the pot, it is returned to the heat: the alcohol in the wine evaporates and is ignited, creating a spectacular flame effect, perfect as a backdrop to some traditional tale. When the alcohol vapors are exhausted, the Ragel is ready to be enjoyed.

The secret of this drink lies in the residue of Toc that remains in the pot: the flavor of polenta adds an indescribable touch, making Ragel a delicious and unique digestive.

The ragel
The toc Bellagino is much more than just a dish. It’s a journey through the authentic flavors of Lombardy, an opportunity to rediscover the culinary traditions of the past and to appreciate the beauty of sharing a meal.
Prepared with genuine ingredients and through a time-consuming and passionate process, our dish is the perfect expression of country cooking, where every gesture and every flavor tells a story.

At Baita TreeB Bellagio, this story comes to life, offering visitors a unique opportunity to savor a dish that encapsulates the essence of Lombard tradition and hospitality. So, the next time you find yourself on Lake Como, don’t miss the chance to taste the Toc Bellagino and let its flavors and history transport you.

From a simple barn, we have created a shelter that not only respects the environment but also offers an unparalleled living experience.

Discover Baita TreeB and the experiences we organize

Gastronomic specialties of Lake Como: the Toc Read More »

7 Museums of Lake Como: A journey through history, art and culture

Lake Como, with its breathtaking scenery and historic villas, is also a museum-rich destination that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history, art, and culture.

Whether you are a history and culture enthusiast, a sports lover, or a curious explorer, the museums of Lake Como have something to offer everyone.

Here’s a guide to 7 must-see museums to visit during your stay on Lake Como, starting with the main attractions of Bellagio and continuing with other gems in the area.

7 Museums around Lake Como

In Bellagio, the Museum of Navigation Instruments is a hidden gem for lovers of boating and history.

This private museum houses an extraordinary collection of navigational instruments, nautical charts, and scale models of boats that tell the story of navigation on Lake Como and beyond.

The tour offers a fascinating overview of the navigation techniques used over the centuries, with particular attention to the innovations that have allowed the development of lake transport.

Museum of Navigation Instruments in the hamlet of San Giovanni

The Madonna del Ghisallo Cycling Museum, located in Magreglio, is a true sanctuary for cycling enthusiasts. Dedicated to the Madonna del Ghisallo, the patron saint of cyclists, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of historic bicycles, jerseys, trophies and memorabilia of legendary cycling champions.

The exhibitions tell the story and evolution of this beloved sport in Italy and around the world, paying tribute to the great cyclists of the past and present.

The museum’s panoramic location, overlooking the mountains and lake, makes the visit even more evocative.

Ghisallo Museum in winter

The Larian Boat Museum, located in Pianello del Lario, is one of the most important museums on Lake Como dedicated to the history of navigation.

Established in 1982, the museum houses a unique collection of over 400 boats, from traditional Larian boats to historic sailboats and racing powerboats. The museum not only preserves historic boats, but also tells the stories of the shipwrights and boatbuilders who have contributed to the development of navigation on the lake.

The exhibits offer a fascinating journey through the evolution of shipbuilding techniques and the maritime culture of the region.

The Larian Boat Museum - Pianello del Lario

For motorcycle enthusiasts, the Moto Guzzi Museum in Mandello del Lario is a must-see stop. This museum celebrates the legendary motorcycle manufacturer Moto Guzzi, founded in 1921.

The museum houses an impressive collection of motorcycles, from the first bikes produced in the 1920s to the latest models. Every motorcycle tells a part of the company’s history and technological innovation in the motorcycle industry.

A visit to the museum also offers the opportunity to explore the historic factory, where Moto Guzzi motorcycles are still produced.

The Larian Boat Museum - Pianello del Lario

The Como Silk Museum celebrates one of the city’s most significant industries: silk production.

Housed in an old factory, the museum offers a journey through the history of silk, from processing techniques to technological innovations. Here you can see up close the ancient machinery, the fabric samples, and the creations of the master weavers.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events that explore themes related to fashion and design.

Silk museum in Como

The Paolo Giovio Archaeological Museum in Como is an essential stop for those who want to delve into the ancient roots of the region.

The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts ranging from prehistoric times to the Roman era.

Among the most important pieces are the Celtic funerary stelae, the Roman mosaics, and a series of everyday objects that tell the story of our ancestors. The exhibitions are curated to offer an educational and engaging path for visitors of all ages.

Museum entrance

The Tempio Voltiano is a museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the renowned inventor of the electric battery and a native of Como.

This elegant neoclassical building houses a collection of scientific instruments, letters, and documents that illustrate the life and discoveries of Volta.

The museum also offers an overview of the evolution of physics and electrical engineering, making it an interesting visit for both science enthusiasts and curious tourists.

Entrance of the Tempio Voltiano
During your visit to Lake Como, the museums prove to be a valid alternative on rainy days. In addition to offering shelter from the elements, these museums immerse you in a cultural and educational journey through centuries of history and innovation. Whether you’re into sailing, motorcycle technology, ancient history, or cycling, there’s always something fascinating to discover in the museums of Lake Como. Seize this opportunity to enrich your experience and deepen your knowledge of the region, even when the skies turn gray.

Lake Como is not just a natural paradise, but also an area rich in history and culture. Its museums offer a fascinating journey through the centuries, allowing visitors to discover the traditions, art, and innovations that have characterized this region. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, don’t miss the opportunity to visit these extraordinary cultural sites.

From a simple barn, we have created a shelter that not only respects the environment but also offers an unparalleled living experience.

Discover Baita TreeB and the experiences we organize

7 Museums of Lake Como: A journey through history, art and culture Read More »

8 Hiking Trails from Civenna on Lake Como:

Discover the new jewel of the TreeB hut in Bellagio: the wooden Finnish tub

Experience an authentic and rejuvenating stay, perfect for those who want to escape the daily routine and immerse themselves in nature, far from the tourist bustle of Bellagio’s historic center.

Welcome to Baita TreeB, where the beauty of the surroundings meets the peacefulness of the mountains. tune share more_vert A unique mountain hut in Bellagio, the baita is surrounded by greenery and hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers.

If you are looking for outdoor adventures, whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner, the area around Civenna offers a variety of trekking trails that will surely win you over. Get ready to discover panoramic trails, enchanted woods, and spectacular views of Lake Como.

8 Hiking Trails from Civenna on Lake Como

Eight Unmissable Hiking Trails on the Como Lake Mountains, Starting from Civate or Baita TreeB:

Lake Como Trails

From the hut, take the main road and then the Tronca-Giacinta trail (412). Visit the Croce di Civenna for a view of the lake and continue towards Giacinta (404).

Walk through woods with erratic boulders and follow the signs to Pietra Lentina. Pass Alpe Sasso Lentina, the Sasso Lentina, and admire the centuries-old beech tree “Fòò Sec”. Continue towards Alpe del Borgo, reach Bocchetta Terra Biotta and the summit of Monte San Primo (1681 m).

Walk down the dirt road, enjoying the view of the Grigne mountains, to Pian Rancio. Walk down the dirt road, enjoying the view of the Grigne mountains, to Pian Rancio. Reach Piazza Milano following Via Provinciale, concluding the hike.

Monte San Primo

Reach Bellavista Park in Civenna, with convenient parking and a spectacular view of Lake Como and the Grigne mountains. Continue through the balcony and take the path that crosses a meadow and enters the woods. Admire panoramic views and ancient farmhouses like Cascina Gorla, rich in history and frescoes.

Continue along shady paths with gentle ups and downs to Gorla, once a meeting place for the inhabitants of Civenna and Limonta. Follow the signs to Limontasca, skirting a stream to Guello, where you will admire a centuries-old chestnut tree. Continue towards Gallasco, passing by the “GaGi” farm.

Pass by the Regina Pacis church and continue towards Prada, arriving at the “Giarabub” farm. Follow cobblestone paths to the Croce di Civenna, a panoramic point offering unforgettable views of the lake and the village. Retrace your steps to Bellavista Park, completing a hike that combines nature, history, and breathtaking views.

Start from Civenna, following the signs for Chevrio. Hike through the woods on shaded paths and meadows to the Makallé Belvedere. From here, enjoy a breathtaking view of the tip of Bellagio. watershed between the two branches of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains
Continue towards Chevrio, descending along ancient mule tracks. Along the way, you will admire enchanting views, with the lake appearing and disappearing between the trees, creating unique photo opportunities. Continue towards Visgnola: this section offers a variety of landscapes, from flowering meadows to small streams. In Visgnola, explore the picturesque village with cobblestone streets and traditional architecture. The tranquility of the place is perfect for a relaxing walk before returning to Civenna, enriched with unforgettable images.
Continue towards Chevrio, descending along ancient mule tracks. Along the way, you will admire enchanting views, with the lake appearing and disappearing between the trees, creating unique photo opportunities. Continue towards Visgnola: this section offers a variety of landscapes, from flowering meadows to small streams. In Visgnola, explore the picturesque village with cobblestone streets and traditional architecture. The tranquility of the place is perfect for a relaxing walk before returning to Civenna, enriched with unforgettable images.
View from Trattoria Baita Belvedere

From the hut, go down Via Dante and reach a washbasin, from there go up the stairs of Via Prà del Calice. Continue straight, ignoring two right turns, and at the junction with Via degli Alpini follow the signs for GÜSS (416). Cross a meadow, pass in front of ruined farmhouses, and follow SENTIERO 3 (416) in the woods to a large meadow in the locality of Güss. Go through a gate, pass in front of a house with a 350-year-old beech tree, and turn left towards the woods (413).

The trail winds through a forest of firs and birches. At a clearing, turn right and re-enter the woods, following the signs for SANTISSIMA – TRONCA – CIVENNA – SENTIERO Ignore two signs on a birch tree and take the first right fork onto SENTIERO 3 (416), which skirts the “Giarabub” Farm and ends on a dirt road. Follow Via Mora, which becomes paved, and turn right at the intersection following the signs for VIA SORRISO – CASCINA GORLA – CIVENNA 2. Continue along Via Sorriso (411) and Via Plinio, with views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.

Upon reaching Via Provinciale, turn right and then again right onto Via Marazza, following the signs for CIVENNA CENTRO. Go down Via Caravina, turn left and descend the steps of Via Prà del Calice that you took on the way up.

Starting from Civenna, follow the signs for “SENTIERO 27 DEL TIVANO” (402) and walk along Via Gorla until you reach a private property. Go through the gate, continue on the dirt road and then on Via Lotario. Take the small staircase on the left indicated by the trail marker and continue on Via Tommaso Grossi, then on Via Stelvio. After the old washbasin, turn left onto Via Volta, passing under an arch. Follow the directions for “MADONNA DI GREÉ E PANORAMICA ETTORE FOSCHI”. Admire the 16th-century church of the Madonna di Greé and continue downhill to reach the Big Bench of Civenna.

From the Big Bench panoramic viewpoint, continue along the paved road and follow “SENTIERO 27 DEL TIVANO” through woods and meadows, ignoring the detours for Limonta and Guello. Cross a short exposed section, ideal for admiring the view of Lake Como. Pass through the village of Limontasca, where a short detour leads you to a magnificent panoramic point overlooking the lake and surrounding mountains.

Continuing towards Visgnola, follow the downhill path, skirting a stream until you reach the church of Santa Maria Annunciata. From here, you can explore the picturesque village of Visgnola, completing your hike with a visit to the historic church and its surroundings.
Santa Maria Annunciata church in Visgnola

Starting from the TreeB Hut, head towards the town center where, on the right, you can visit the Parish Church dedicated to the Saints Materno and Ambrose, dating back to 1573. Continuing along the main road, you reach the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Sommaguggio, located at the top of the climb that leads to Civenna from Canzo. This ancient building, with its covered churchyard and granite columns, is one of the oldest structures in Civenna. Continuing along the road, after about two hundred meters, you will find the entrance to Via Palembri on the left.

Follow Via Palembri until you reach a small parking lot, passing the aqueduct and a chain that blocks the passage. Continuing, the cobblestones give way to asphalt, skirting a residential area. The road continues through a forest, passing by “Villa Pierina” and under a small viaduct. The mule track begins a steady climb with wide bends, up to a concrete ramp. From here, the steep path continues, leaving on the right the detour for the path “Civenna 2”. The long descent along Via Fratelli Cairoli finally leads to a small fountain with signs, followed by a right turn and then a left turn onto Via General Cantore.

Continuing, you pass the church of Santa Maria del Carmine on your right and cross the coastal state road, turning left to enter Via Machiavelli. Continuing uphill, you will reach Via Parrocchiale, passing by the small war memorial, and arrive at the church of Saints Celso and Nazario. Finally, you arrive at the dock square in Vassena, concluding the itinerary.

Follow the trail from the hut, which winds through chestnut and oak forests, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The terrain is partly dirt road and partly cobblestone, ensuring a pleasant and safe walk.
As you continue, the trail begins a gentle ascent, passing through meadows and small streams. As you continue to climb, you will reach a crossroads where several trails intersect. Follow the directions to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Ghisallo, a path that becomes increasingly panoramic, with breathtaking views of Lake Como and the Alps.

You will reach the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Ghisallo, a place of great historical and religious importance, known as the patron saint of cyclists. Here you can visit the famous Cycling Museum, which houses historical relics of great cycling champions such as Bartali, Coppi and Merckx. The shrine itself is a pilgrimage site much loved by cyclists, so much so that in 1949 Pope Pius XII proclaimed it the universal patron of cyclists. Next to the sanctuary there is a monument dedicated to Coppi and Bartali, symbol of the long cycling tradition linked to this place.

Sanctuary of the Madonna del Ghisallo.
Leaving the hut, turn left, shortly after, on the right follow the signs TRONCA-GIACINTA (412). Here starts a mule track that enters the woods (sentiero della Tronca). A short detour to the right shortly after leads to the Croce di Civenna, a panoramic point overlooking the town and the lake.
Retrace our steps and continue uphill along the mule track. At the first junction with an asphalt road, turn left and follow the signs for GIACINTA. (404). Ignore the turnoff to the right and keep left, continuing uphill, signs BAITA GIACINTA – PIAN RANCIO (note that there is a fountain with drinking water at Cascina Giacinta).
At the end of the road, near a house, continue straight along path (404) that enters the woods. Boulders of glacial origin are easily visible in this stretch of woods.
The Lentina Stone, also known as the Lentina Rock, is an imposing glacial erratic boulder of gneiss originating from the Val Masino, With its dimensions of 30 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and 9 meters in height, it is the most voluminous boulder in Lombardy, with a volume of approximately 1500 cubic meters.
Lentina boulder

Completing a day of trekking along the trails of Bellagio means bringing back with you not only the memory of breathtaking landscapes, but also the feeling of having lived a unique experience in contact with nature. Every trail, from the easiest strolls to the most challenging hikes, offers the chance to discover hidden corners and unforgettable views that make this area of Lake Como a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced hiker or simply a nature lover, Bellagio will amaze you and give you unforgettable emotions. Pack your backpack, lace up your boots, and let yourself be guided by the timeless beauty of these trails. Adventure awaits!

From a simple barn, we have created a shelter that not only respects the environment but also offers an unparalleled living experience.

Discover Baita TreeB and the experiences we organize

8 Hiking Trails from Civenna on Lake Como: Read More »

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