Lake Garda Glass Barn

A 12th Century Family Estate Is Reborn As A Thriving EVOO Producer

Cleverly and stylishly adapted from a crumbling old barn, this vacation home for rent in Italy is the latest in a passion project of the owners who restored and resurrected an ancient family estate, turning it into a thriving olive oil and hospitality business. We love the soaring, light-filled interiors and the sparse, mixed decor.

Leaving behind a fast paced career as a photographer in Milan, the owner of this vacation rental in Italy returned to her rambling 12th-century family home in the country to start over and create a thriving olive oil business and B&B. Nestled into a valley of olive groves in the hills above Lake Garda’s west bank, the property was left uninhabited for fifty years before an expansive restoration of the houses, barn and land rescued it from decline.

The historic aspects of the property remain with the original stone and timber but now with bright modern interiors where farm animals once lived.

The main floor soars to double height with large panels of glass providing loads of natural light. The living and dining areas are sparsely furnished with just a handful of handmade, vintage and contemporary pieces that allow the space and light to shine. The double mezzanine loft bedroom is a cozy hideaway for two with great views from its perch.

There is no kitchen in the barn but there is a guest kitchen in the common area with the B&B.

The swimming pool is shared with the guests of the adjacent B&B and there are hammocks and seating areas among the rambling gardens and olive groves for quiet places to read, write, relax or have an aperitivo.

Studying the culture of the area and its deep roots in olive oil production, the owners are organizers of the oldest EVOO International Competition in the world: Leone d'oro dei Mastri Oleari and are professional olive oil tasters who also teach the art of tasting. You’ll definitely want a sample!

LAKE GARDA

The largest in all of Italy, Lake Garda draws visitors to its crystal clear waters, natural beauty, and bustling resorts. Surrounded by the three regions of Lombardy, Trentino Alto-Adige, and the Veneto, each has a distinctive appeal. 

Located on the southwest side of the lake, the nearby hamlet of Pulciano is within the larger village of Toscolano Maderno a few kilometers from Salo. From here you can reach easily Verona, Venezia, Brescia and Milano. There is only one road around the lake but in summer you’ll find traffic. 

LOCATION

Toscolano Maderno, Lake Garda, Italy. Nearest Airport: Bergamo orio al Serio (1 hr)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: May, June, September, October.