San Martino
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Grainte and Cadenabbia are one town, or municipality in the Province of Como which is in the Italian region of Lombardy. It lies on the western shore of the lake and is situated between Menaggio and Tremezzo. Cadenabbia is the lakeside area whilst Grainte is the area rising to the hillside.
br> For many years Griante has attracted famous people, for example, Villa Ricordo (Villa Margherita) was the location Guiseppe Verdi chose to compose the aria La Traviata, it was also here where Stendhal composed one of his many masterpieces Chartreuse de Parme. Griante was also a popular destination for Royalty, including Nicholas 11 of Russia, Queen Victoria, Kaiser Gulielmo 11 and also Pope Pio X1. br> The area is renowned for the wonderful flowers and plants which grow in abundance, due to the sheltered location and is known as the "Riviera of Azaleas". Cadenabbia has many restaurants and shops, and also a good ferry service. There is a lovely walk from Griante up to the San Martino church. The views are truly unforgettable, with flowers and butterflies all the way. The path is quite steep in parts and will take about an hour each way, but the views will make it a walk to remember. br> The most famous Villa on the Lake, Villa Carlotta, is in Cadenabbia and has many interesting features, especially a great art collection, luxurious rooms and wonderful gardens with a wide variety of plants from all over the world. The little Church of S. Martino sits on the mountainside and although the walk up to it it somewhat precarious, it should be on your list of places to visit as the views are unrivalled. | |
