France and Italy, 2004

Nesso is a small village on the shores of Lake Como, one of a continuous string on the shore between Como and Bellagio. It has a hotel, a tavern, a church, a few shops, and (way down on the lake shore) a ferry pontoon. Not very exciting, but a good base to explore around the lake. We stayed in the family-run hotel, which had one great advantage: Mama could cook!

Between Yvoire and Nesso, we went over the Simplon Pass in Switzerland. It's 2005 metres above sea level, and is the only main road into Northern Italy that does not go through a long tunnel. The mountain scenery was spectacular.

Lynn is very proud of this because everything is in focus from front to back.

The road goes across the bridge in the background.

The Swiss are fond of gnomes. Here is one at the summit of the Simplon Pass.

Nesso is very attractive on the waterfront near the ferry pontoon, but it's a long walk back up to the village.

The same area seen from an approaching ferry. The waterfall is really only visible from on the lake.

A pretty little gazebo at Cernobbio, near Como.

Bellagio township seen from the lakeside.

Looking down Lake Como from Bellagio.

Bellagio town rises up from the lake with a series of stepped walkways leading up to the main square.