Magnolia Villa

The Romance of Lake Como

There's nothing quite like the atmospheric romance and history of Lake Como and this villa for rent allows you a stay immersed in la dolce vita right at the water's edge.

Set along the shores of Lake Como's Zoca de L'Oli gulf, directly across from Isola Comacina (the only island on the lake), this 18th-century villa for rent is an elegant and homey house that has been in the same family for decades.

Built by one of the greatest Maestri Comacini (Masters of Como), a group of famous artisans that specialized in stone masonry, their studios were located on Comacini with several remaining examples of their work still standing throughout the lake region.

The house is laid out on three floors, with a cozy living room featuring a large stone fireplace and balcony overlooking the lake and direct access to the gardens and shore. Through the hall is the kitchen with an original handcrafted stone ceiling and a large stone table for more formal dining.

Many of the original family furnishings, antiques and decor remain in the house, collected over many years of world travels. The lovely gardens are green and lush with magnolia trees, jasmine and olive trees along with a terrace for dining al fresco with stunning lake views.

The three bedrooms are on the top floor, two with lake and island views, and the larger one includes a private balcony. The third faces the street, and in the middle is a private apartment used exclusively by the owner.

Read about a visit to Magnolia Villa in our Stories section here.

COMO'S WESTERN BRANCH

The Zoca de L'Oli gulf on the western branch of Lake Como is the only spot within the lake with an island, La Isola Comacina. A unique feature of the region, the island has its own ancient archeological sites, lush natural terrain and several interesting rationalist artist house.s (It's also host to the Festival of San Giovanni on the last Saturday in June each year where the food, music and fireworks light up the night.)

The UNESCO Heritage site of Monte di Ossuccio is within a 30-minute walk from the house and is well worth the visit. Dotted with 16th-century chapels surrounded by woods and olive groves, the mountain offers magnificent views. Don't miss a visit to the Villa Balbianello in Lenno and the famous Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, each just a few minutes from the house.

For centuries this exclusive enclave has been a celebrated destination for royalty, aristocrats and celebrities to play and enjoy the unparalleled beauty of Italy's northern lake region. Perhaps the most famous of all of Lake Como's towns, nearby Bellagio is a glittering little jewel overlooking all three branches of the lake.

Based at the foothills of the Alps and offering dramatic scenery of the surrounding mountains and the crystal clear waters, Lake Como's iconic character and natural beauty are uniquely atmospheric and impressive. Dotted with charming villages and spectacular villas along both legs of the waterfront, the ferries are the best way to take in the many lake vistas and visit the famed towns of Lecco, Tremezzo, and Varenna.

LOCATION

Tremezzina, Lake Como, Italy. Nearest Airport: Milan Malpensa (75km), Milan Linate (92km), or Lugano with a Swiss border pass (54km).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round