Welcome Home to Bergamo: Elena’s home, beautifully situated in the “Parco dei Colli” between historic Città Alta and vibrant Città Bassa, features a cozy attic equipped with TV, Wi-Fi, a sofa, and a glass desk, complete with an en-suite bathroom. Weather allowing, classes and meals—lunch, aperitivo, and dinner—are hosted in the picturesque patio or garden. Offering full board, Elena’s residence caters to the culinary needs of her guests and can accommodate either a single student or a couple.
Elena also offers accommodations in two exquisite lakeside homes on Lake Como. Students have the unique opportunity to divide their time between Bergamo and Lake Como, immersing themselves in learning within a peaceful setting. Here, they can soak up the warm climate, marvel at the stunning coastal views, and explore the rich tapestry of art and history that the region boasts. This blend of serene learning environments and cultural enrichment ensures a comprehensive educational experience.
Elena’s primary home in Bergamo
Bergamo, a picturesque medieval town in Lombardy, lies just 50 km from Milan and an hour from the Lake District. This town, once a significant Roman city known as Bergomum, boasts ancient walls fortified during the Venetian era and are now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bergamo is divided into two sections: the historic Città Alta (Upper City) and the modern Città Bassa (Lower City), which have been linked by a funicular since 1887.
In Città Alta, you can explore many historic sites along car-free cobbled lanes. Key attractions include Piazza Vecchia, the Cathedral, Palazzo della Ragione, Santa Maria Maggiore, Cappella Colleoni, Rocca, Baptistry, and Teatro Sociale. The area is also renowned for its excellent dining options, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy pizzerias and osterias, along with shops offering local specialties and delicious pastries.
Meanwhile, Città Bassa, developed in the early seventeenth century, features broad boulevards and is rich in cultural sites, including museums, theaters, libraries, and stunning architecture. It provides a vibrant contrast to the historical upper city.
Elena’s accommodations in Como
Elena also hosts students in two lake homes on Lake Como: Students can split their time between Bergamo and Lake Como where they will learn in a tranquil environment as they enjoy the warm climate, the beauty of the coast, and the richness of the art and history of the area.
Elena’s House in Corenno Plinio offers an idyllic retreat on the lakefront, nestled within a tranquil, traffic-free medieval village. This cozy home is perfectly positioned for enjoying lake activities and exploring nearby attractions in Milan, the Valtellina area, and Switzerland. Guests can bask in the sun, swim in the lake, and stroll along the “Sentiero del Viandante” walking trail. The residence provides a serene setting for relaxation and studying Italian, featuring breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains, all peaceful.
Elena’s House in Menaggio offers students a comprehensive immersion into the Italian language and culture through an exclusive homestay language vacation. Situated in the picturesque “Golden Triangle,” renowned for its stunning beauty and rich history, Menaggio is a perfect base for exploring. From here, students can easily access the enchanting neighboring villages of Varenna, Bellagio, Tremezzo, Lenno, and Bellano via public boat or ferry within just 15-20 minutes. The town of Como is also just 40 minutes away by hydrofoil or car. For those passionate about the outdoors, Menaggio is conveniently located near the “Greenway” trail and the mountains, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and bikers seeking to experience the area’s scenic splendor.
Corenno Plinio on Lake Come
Menaggio on Lake Como
What to Expect from Elena’s Homestay Language Course
Listen to a recorded
message made by Elena.
What to Expect from Elena’s Language Course: Elena, holding a degree in foreign languages from Milan, launched her homestay language program ten years ago. Her comprehensive package includes full room and board, an entrance assessment, all necessary learning materials, and daily Italian lessons tailored to each student’s needs. The learning extends beyond structured classes, offering ample opportunities for practical language application through everyday activities such as shopping, coffee at local cafes, and conversing with Elena’s visitors and neighbors.
Included in Elena’s Homestay: Guests enjoy full room and board, transportation to and from Bergamo’s airport or train station, daily local afternoon excursions, and a full-day excursion to a city of your choice. Possible destinations include Milan, Brescia, Verona, Cremona, Mantova, and Pavia when staying in Bergamo; or Bellagio, Varenna, Piona, Tremezzo, Como, and the nearby mountain areas like St. Moritz when at Lake Como.
Additional Activities: The program can include various activities to enrich your stay. Options include cinema, theatre, cooking classes, dinners with friends, and meetings with locals. For the active guest, activities available are walking, cycling, swimming, water biking, water aerobics, tennis, golf, gym, roller skating, skiing, ice skating (in winter), sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing (in summer). Preferences can be discussed and arranged upon arrival.
Booking Your Homestay with Elena: Elena offers a special rate for her Homestay experience in Bergamo and Lake Como to readers of the Matta Blog.