In Lombardy, not far from Milan, there is a lake with quite an original and fascinating shape: that's un upside down Y with two separate shores, the Como one and the Lecco one, either of them with its peculiarites, history and traditions. The eastern shore of the lake is the protagonist of this blog. Let's discover it.

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As some of you may know, this shore of the lake is linked to an unforgettable novel that was set here: "The Betrothed" written by Alessandro Manzoni. But it is also much more than that. It is a unique mix of history and culture, thanks to all the populations that, over time, have built, colonized and fortified the villages along the lake. The eastern shore and its well-known valley - Valsassina - have always been disputed places because of their strategic geographical position, since it connects the Alps with the Pianura Padana.

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However, the lake was not only the set of numerous battles, but it also stood out as holiday resort, so much that it became an appreciated destination of the Grand Tour of young middle class europeans between XVIII and XIX century.

To sum up, the eastern shore of the lake has always been a strategic place where castles and forts have been built, but it has also been a fashonable destination thanks to its magical atmosphere, its clean air and beautiful landscape: these elements have turned this lake into a popular tourist destination, where people can experience both nature and culture.