Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club
Menaggio & Cadenabbia is a living monument to golf on Lake Como
Menaggio & Cadenabbia is a living monument to golf on Lake Como. Founded in the early twentieth century under strong British influence, it still preserves a dry, almost alpine elegance that sets it apart from more theatrical — and often more predictable — resort experiences. The course climbs and falls above the lake, offering holes of real character, quick greens and a constant dialogue between the game and the landscape. You do not come here merely to score well; you come to step into a tradition shaped by a historic clubhouse, discreet rituals and a powerful sense of place. Yardage is not overwhelming, but inaccuracy is punished and approach play requires imagination. Beyond the gates, Lake Como itself deepens the experience: villas, boats, grand hotels and a quality of light that shifts by the hour. Menaggio is old-world golf at its most persuasive, blending Italian charm with unmistakable British discipline.
Fermati a pranzo in club house dopo il giro: a Menaggio parte del fascino sta proprio nel rallentare e lasciare che il club racconti il suo tempo.
One of Italy's most fascinating historic clubs in the Lake Como area
Technical, distinctive, and character-filled course
Less suitable for those seeking modern resort amenities
Slopes and fast greens require good touch and control
Menaggio & Cadenabbia is a living monument to golf on Lake Como. Founded in the early twentieth century under strong British influence, it still preserves a dry, almost alpine elegance that sets it apart from more theatrical — and often more predictable — resort experiences. The course climbs and falls above the lake, offering holes of real character, quick greens and a constant dialogue between the game and the landscape. You do not come here merely to score well; you come to step into a tradition shaped by a historic clubhouse, discreet rituals and a powerful sense of place. Yardage is not overwhelming, but inaccuracy is punished and approach play requires imagination. Beyond the gates, Lake Como itself deepens the experience: villas, boats, grand hotels and a quality of light that shifts by the hour. Menaggio is old-world golf at its most persuasive, blending Italian charm with unmistakable British discipline.
On the technical side, the course is a mountain layout of 18 holes playing to a par of 70 with a slope rating of 131. The design was created by Peter Gannon. Visitor ratings underline the point: outstanding course standard, striking natural setting.
The best time to visit Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club is May, June, July, August, September. Among its most appreciated strengths: One of Italy's most fascinating historic clubs in the Lake Como area; Technical, distinctive, and character-filled course.
The facilities include putting green, driving range, restaurant, pro shop, cart rental, caddy on request.
The nearest airport is Milano Malpensa (MXP), approximately 55 minutes by car.
What is the best time to play?+
The best time to play is May, June, July, August, September. Outside this window the club may be closed or operating with reduced services.
Is a handicap certificate required?+
Yes, Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club requires a maximum handicap of 34. Contact the club directly to confirm current requirements.
How do I get to the club?+
The nearest airport is Milano Malpensa (MXP), approximately 55 minutes by car. Car rental is recommended for maximum flexibility.
Is there on-site accommodation?+
Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club does not have on-site accommodation. There are various lodging options in the surrounding area; contact the club for partner recommendations.
How many holes does the course have, and how challenging is it?+
The course has 18 holes playing to a par of 70 with a slope rating of 131. It is a demanding course best suited to experienced players.
Exclusive Experiences
Secrets found in no guidebook, curated by our concierge.
Lago di Como — Ferry d'Autore
Menaggio & Cadenabbia sits on one of the lake's most harmonious stretches, where the mountains draw close to the water and the light changes quickly. A short crossing away from peak hours extends the club in the most natural possible way.
“Take the last uncrowded ferry and remain on the outer deck: at that hour, the lake seems to return to its inhabitants.”
Tremezzo — Giardino sul Lago
Between Menaggio and Tremezzo, some lake villas preserve a distinctly Como sense of grace: terraces over the water, geometric gardens and rooms seemingly designed to slow time. It is the most natural cultural complement to the club.
“Aim for the gardens when the sun turns behind the mountains: the visual temperature drops and the lake becomes almost Nordic.”
Como — Cantina Alpina
In the valleys above the lake survives a sober, precise way of serving wine and mountain cuisine. It is a less expected stop, which is precisely why it pairs well with Menaggio & Cadenabbia: it shifts the focus from panorama to character.
“Ask for lighter reds and a secluded table: in the mountains, elegance persuades more when it does not force the tone.”
Villa Carlotta — Museo sul Lago
On the shores of Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta holds one of Italy's most quietly remarkable neoclassical collections — Canova and Thorvaldsen marbles in rooms that still feel inhabited. It's less museum than inhabited villa, where sculpture and botanic gardens blur into one another. The views across the lake make the experience feel slightly outside of time.
“Come at opening before tour groups arrive — Canova's marbles seem to breathe in the morning quiet.”
Greenway del Lago — Sentiero tra Cedri e Acqua
The Greenway del Lago di Como is a ten-kilometre walking path along the western shore connecting Colonno to Cadenabbia, threading through private gardens, historic lemon houses, and half-forgotten hamlets. It's not a generic scenic walk — it's a route that moves through layers of time, with noble villas opening onto terraces that hang directly over the water. In places, the subtropical planting is so dense it feels like another continent entirely.
“Walk north toward Cadenabbia in late afternoon — the raking light on the water is exactly what Grand Tour painters came here chasing.”
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