Lake Como, nestled in the heart of northern Italy, is a renowned destination for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. But beneath the serene surface of this iconic lake lies a hidden world waiting to be discovered by scuba divers. Lake Como Scuba Diving offers an extraordinary experience for both beginners and experts, allowing them to explore the lake’s unique underwater landscapes, sunken treasures, and diverse marine life.
When to Dive
Year-Round Diving: One of the remarkable aspects of Lake Como Scuba Diving is its accessibility throughout the year. Unlike many other diving destinations, Lake Como can be explored by scuba divers all year round. However, it’s important to consider the water temperature and visibility, as these factors can vary significantly depending on the season.
Where to Dive
Popular Dive Sites: Lake Como boasts several renowned dive sites that attract divers from around the world. Some of the most popular locations include:
- Punta Spargivento in Bellagio
- The wall of Villa Pliniana in Torno
- The sea horse of Onno
- Shipwreck sites in the depths of Lake Como
Useful Information
Rental Services and Guided Dives: Fortunately, there are several specialized centers around Lake Como that cater to the needs of scuba divers. These centers provide equipment rentals and organize group dives, making it easier for both experienced and novice divers to explore the lake’s underwater wonders.
One of the most well-known organizations is the Centro Sub Nettuno, the oldest scuba/diving association in Lake Como, which offers a range of underwater discovery experiences.
Hidden Treasures
Sunken Cars and Tanks: Lake Como is home to a vast collection of preserved sunken treasures, including a diverse array of boats, gondolas, and even a steamship. But the lake’s hidden gems go beyond just watercraft – divers have also discovered a museum of sunken cars, as well as WWII tanks, weapons, and unexploded bombs.
Underwater Landscapes: Beneath the surface of Lake Como, divers have reported encountering a variety of fascinating underwater landscapes. These include pinnacles with strange holes, walls of rock with deep cracks full of fish, caves leading to secret rivers, and even the remains of large trees with branches and roots.
Expert Insights
Favorite Dive Sites: Lake Como has several dive sites that are particularly popular among experienced divers. Some of the top picks include:
- Moregallo: Known for its deep diving spot with a 50-meter vertical drop-off and sunken cars.
- Menaggio (Nobiallo): Features a white wall with rocks and spikes, suitable for experienced divers.
- Brienno Canyon: A channel that descends vertically towards the depth, offering a unique diving experience.
Tour Operators and Reviews
Viator: For those interested in exploring Lake Como’s underwater world, Viator offers various scuba diving tours and activities. These include a full-day tour to Villa Balbianello and a sailing experience with a private skipper, both of which incorporate scuba diving opportunities.
TripAdvisor: In addition to Viator, TripAdvisor provides a wealth of reviews and photos of scuba diving and snorkeling activities in Lake Como and the surrounding area of Como. These reviews can be invaluable in helping divers plan their Lake Como adventure.
Lake Como Scuba Diving is a truly unique and captivating experience that allows visitors to discover the hidden depths of this iconic Italian lake. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a newcomer to the sport, the lake’s diverse dive sites, sunken treasures, and stunning underwater landscapes offer an unforgettable adventure. With year-round accessibility and a range of tour operators and rental services, Lake Como is a must-visit destination for any scuba diving enthusiast.
References
- https://www.lakecomo.is/project/scuba-diving/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g187833-Activities-c61-t194-Lake_Como_Lombardy.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g187835-Activities-c61-t194-Como_Lake_Como_Lombardy.html
- https://www.viator.com/Lake-Como-tours/Scuba-Diving/d26113-g17-c28901
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimdobson/2021/05/16/the-hidden-world-beneath-lake-como-vintage-cars-planes-war-tanks-and-treasures/