ROAD TO COMO.

This is exactly where the Instagrammers @pepperandgold and @gercollector received the BMW M Performance vehicles that would take them on a spectacular scenic route across the Alps to Lake Como: a BMW M850i xDrive in BMW Individual Special Paint Verde Ermes Pearl metallic and a BMW M760Li xDrive in BMW Individual Frozen Cashmere Silver metallic. This was not any old handover, of course. BMW Welt’s impressive vehicle lift and characteristic delivery window – the place where dreams are fulfilled day after day – provided the perfect setting for these luxurious and highly individualised vehicles. They were joined by a BMW X7 M50d and a BMW M850i xDrive First Edition.

Directions: From the Brenner A22 motorway in Sterzing on the ‘Strada Statale 44 del Passo di Giovo’ (SS 44)

The Jaufen Pass runs through the heart of South Tyrol. It is the northernmost of all Italian Alpine passes and is known for its outstanding views seen at numerous vantage points. Over a total length of 39 kilometres, the exciting route connects the Passeier Valley with the Eisack Valley. This means that the road offers the shortest route between the alpine hotspots of Merano and Sterzing.

To the north of the pass, the mighty Ötztal Alps rise impressively; to the south the more temperate Sarntal Alps offer a refreshing contrast. It is dominated by the majestic Jaufenspitze, which has a summit height of 2,483 metres. The Jaufen Pass itself reaches a maximum height of 2,094 metres.

Good to know: Unlike many other Alpine passes, the Jaufenpass is open all year round.

Highlights: A winding alpine pass with a challenging altitude of up to 2,094 metres above sea level.

Level of difficulty according to the Denzel Alpine Road Scale: SG 2-3 (Practice and safe driving technique on mountain roads should be possible)

Directions: Coming from Merano via SS 38, SS40, SS 41, Route 28 and Route 27 past St. Moritz towards Silvaplana.

Lake Silvaplana lies in the Upper Engadine high valley at an altitude of 1,791 metres. It is the middle of three lakes that together form the Engadine valley region and is named after the village of Silvaplana, which lies on its north-western shore.

The lake is so popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers – thanks to the consistent and strong Maloja wind that blows across it – that sometimes hundreds of like-minded watersport enthusiasts can be seen criss-crossing their way over the lake.

Good to know: The Majola wind, which is so appealing to those kitesurfers and windsurfers, does not usually arrive at the lake until noon. This offers fans of stand-up paddleboarding calm and flat conditions to enjoy their sport in the morning.

Highlights: A combination of the magnificent Alpine views and the lively water sports scene.

Directions: From Silvaplana follow Route 3 to the pass.

The Maloja Pass is a high mountain pass in the Swiss Alps that climbs up to 1,812 metres above sea level. It is very well developed, connecting the Val Bregaglia valley with the Engadine valleys and at the same time separating the Albula Alps from the Bernina Alps.

One of the outstanding features of the Maloja Pass is its almost unique route characteristic with only one ramp on the south-west side. As a consequence, this Alpine road runs unusually flat on the north side for long stretches, only to wind abruptly, sometimes steeply and with tight bends, towards Bergell on the south side. Rising only 343 vertical metres over a distance of more than fifty kilometres on one side, it descends 1,481 vertical metres over a distance of 32 kilometres on the other.

Highlights: A paradise for curves with an unparalleled views. A pronounced contrast between the south-west side and the north-east side.

Level of difficulty according to the Denzel Alpine Road Scale: SG 2 (moderate requirements, also suitable for drivers with little mountain road experience)

Directions: Coming from Route 3/SS 37 in Chiarenna, follow SS 36 south to Lecco.

Lecco offers probably the most beautiful views of Lake Como. One of the city’s most notable landmarks is the Ponte di Azzone Visconti bridge. Lecco also has a picturesque old town and the Basilica of San Nicolò, one of the highest church towers in Italy. Its rises 96 metres above the ground and the top can be reached by climbing up its 380 steps. Today, thanks to the surrounding mountains with their sometimes bizarre shapes and the varied and demanding slopes, the town is very popular with hikers and climbers.

Highlight: Climbing paradise with probably the most beautiful views of Lake Como.

Directions: From Lecco via SS 36 and SP 342 to Como/Cernobbio

The Como region has retained its original character to the present day, offering mild, Mediterranean weather conditions with a pleasant climate until late autumn. This is helped by the comparatively low altitude of Lake Como, which sits only 197 metres above sea level.

Among locals, Lake Como is also affectionately called Lario. Viewed from above, it can be said to resemble an upside-down letter Y. Como’s shores are lined by numerous small yet picturesque towns and villages. A striking blue gem in the foothills of the Alps, the interplay of light produced by the different seasons and times of day sees visitors return again and again for fresh views of this enchanting body of water. The legendary Villa d'Este, with its beautiful grounds, impressive architecture and eventful history, provides the icing on the cake.

Good to know: The original name of this opulent estate was ‘Villa del Garovo’.

Highlight: The luxurious hotel with its impressive gardens. And, of course, the automobile beauty contests for the prestigious trophies of the Concorso d'Eleganza.