Varenna and Local Skiing :
Varenna may be the most picturesque town on the lake, its steep winding alleys lined with charming homes, flowering balconies and lace-curtained windows. Just above it is the ancient castle where Theodolinda, Queen of the Lombards, is said to have died in the 7th century. Two famed villas to visit here are Villa Cipressi, with terraced gardens cascading right down to the shores, and Villa Monastero, a true showcase.
The skiing areas of Madesimo and St. Moritz in Switzerland are just 80 - 90 mins drive from Varenna. The slopes of Italy's western Trentino and Lombardy are between 90 minutes and 2 hours drive away.
One of several local skiing areas is 'Piani di Bobbio' from where you can enjoy the alpine scenery.