Domaso is a small town at the northern end of Lake Como, where the lake narrows and the mountains close in. It's one of the best spots on the lake for wind sports: the Breva (afternoon thermal wind) and the Tivano (morning wind) create reliable conditions for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The town itself is quiet, with a pebble beach, a couple of campsites, and a handful of trattorias. We'd suggest it for active visitors and families who want a Lake Como base that's about the water rather than the villas and gardens of the central lake.
Why Stay in Domaso
- Wind sports: Reliable morning and afternoon winds make Domaso one of the top windsurfing and kitesurfing spots on the Italian lakes. Schools and hire centres operate from the beach.
- Quiet northern lake: Less tourist traffic than the central lake. Prices for accommodation and dining are lower. The atmosphere is more local.
- Pebble beach: A wide pebbly beach with free access and mountain views. Shallow water for paddling.
- Far from the famous sights: Bellagio is about 40 minutes by car (much longer in traffic). The famous villas and gardens are in the central lake area. Domaso is a different kind of Lake Como holiday.
Things to Do in Domaso
Windsurf or kitesurf. The morning Tivano wind (north) is lighter, suited to beginners. The afternoon Breva (south) is stronger. Lessons and hire from the beach centres (from around €40 for a beginner session).
Walk or cycle the lakeside path north towards Gravedona and south towards Dongo. The views of the mountains across the water are constant.
Gravedona (5 minutes south) has the Romanesque church of Santa Maria del Tiglio, one of the finest on the lake. Bellagio (40 minutes) and the central lake are accessible by car or the slower lake ferry service. The Valtellina valley (30 minutes north over the pass) has good walking, skiing (in winter), and Nebbiolo wines (Sforzato). St. Moritz in Switzerland is about 90 minutes by car.
