I just got back from a week in Como, Italy, visiting the fabric mills that produce my shawls. While there, I had the chance to explore Como, from my home-base hotel in the heart of the old-town, Palazzo Albricci Peregrini. Here are some of my favourite places:

Palazzo Albricci Peregrini

This boutique hotel was recommended by my friend Mercedeh Sanati of Quench Travel. Managed by the magnificent Elena, with her cropped hair and chic glasses, it’s right in the heart of the old-town. It calls itself a "luxury urban house", situated in a 15th century palazzo. There is no grand entrance, just a gate and courtyard, from which you proceed to a little outdoor terrace with tables, and an indoor breakfast-room and lobby. The rooms are high-ceilinged and frescoed, with large windows overlooking a neighbouring garden and sheer linen curtains that pool on the floor. There are lovely old armoires and mirrors with well-appointed bathrooms and the softest beds I’ve ever slept in. Our room, La Scrustada, fit 3 of us very comfortably, with the third bed tucked into a separate nook. Elena tends to every need, making wonderful restaurant recommendations, explaining how to criss-cross the lake by ferry, and remembering our breakfast preferences (cappuccino, chiffon cake, mint tea). The breakfasts, by the way, are out of this world.

Tessabit

This luxury Italian department store is exclusive to Lake Como, with locations in Como, Cernobbio (in the Villa d’Este), Menaggio and Belaggio. Run by the third generation of the Molteni family, the store offers old-world service the Italian way, with warm, friendly sales people who can offer you a history on the brands they carry. I fell in love with the silk scarves and monogrammed socks.

Solocose Belle

Beautiful jewelry in floral shapes with pastel-coloured gems.

Art Shop - Bogani

I brought watercolours on the trip, not acrylics, but when I saw the beautiful light in Como, and the effect of the mist on the mountains, I went to Bogani on Via Milano, to stock up. They carry mostly oils, but they had a small selection of acrylics, including a range they mix themselves.

Ferry Ride

There is a ferry that criss-crosses Lake Como and takes you to other charming towns around the lake. It's still off-season in March, so the first one doesn’t leave until 12:20pm, but there’s still plenty of time to spend the afternoon visiting other villages and return back to Como before dinner.

People-Watching at Caffe Monti

Caffe Monti has the best view in town. Overlooking both Piazza Cavour and the lake, you can sit for hours with your cappuccino or pizza, watch the scene, and no one will bother you.

An Artist's Guide to Como