Set in the foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Como is the birthplace of Alessandro Volta, the electricity physicist who invented the electric battery some 200 years ago. Eco-conscious travellers can now enjoy this beautiful Italian holiday destination by electric vehicle (EV), bike or boat: Como is to become the first “electric lake” in Europe, thanks to British businesswoman, Judith Wade.
Great Italian Gardens supports sustainable tourism
Tourism veteran and garden lover Wade is the founder of GGI Grandi Giardini Italiani (Great Italian Gardens). GGI is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, having started with just 12 properties in 1997. This foundation is now Italy’s most prestigious garden network, working with 124 gardens across 12 of the country’s regions.
GGI is backed by 27 stakeholders, all committed to environmental causes and maintaining Italy’s artistic heritage. Supporters include some of the world’s most famous hotels, such as Hotel Terminus, Villa D’Este at Cernobbio, and Hotel Tremezzo.
Along points of interest, 17 charging stations are being fitted around 170 kilometres of the Lake Como. Most of the stations are installed by the Tesla Destination Charging Programme, with the idea that many will become global chargers to fit any electric car. A lack of reliable charging stations is often cited as a reason for the reluctance to rely on electric vehicles.
Electric boats are a quiet, eco-friendly way to explore Como Lake (Credit/Econoleggio)
Zero-emission, Italian style
Despite being the EU’s largest market for electric cars, only 17 per cent of UK motorists said their next vehicle purchase would be an electric or hybrid car. Taking advantage of these e-vehicle chargers, Nautico Matteri Shipyard and the Econoleggio Como Lake will supply a fleet of zero-emission boats. Italy offers incentives for the purchase of EVs that use alternative fuels, provided they replace cars that are at least 10 years old. The Italian designed and manufactured Tazzari EVs cost about €2 to completely recharge (US $2.30). These compact Italian EVs can go 200 kilometres on a single charge from either a regular household socket or charging station.
Sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism (Credit/GGI)
GGI sold 8 million tickets to horticultural fans last year alone, thanks to Wade’s initiatives and the support of local businesses. Wade can now add super sustainable“Como—The Electric Lake” to her portfolio, taking this beautiful Northern Italy destination ahead of the times. Promoting beauty, environmental tourism and cultural heritage, GGI is making waves with Como—The Electric Lake.
Written By: Adriane Rysz