The Italian Lakes

Let’s get a couple of things straight: First, you don’t go to the Italian lakes to swim. Yes, you can swim in them, but the water is cold and this should not be the main point of one’s stay in this area. Second, the Italian lakes are most definitely not On Golden Pond. They are not rural, and they are not isolated. The Italian lakes are sophisticated, urbane resorts like Positano or Portofino, but on a lake rather than on the sea. They’re meant for scenery, shopping, strolling, breathing the air, enjoying the views.

Now, which lake? Como is the most famous. It’s also the most difficult to get around in once you’re there, as the roads are narrower and much slower. Orta and Maggiore are just as beautiful and easier. Plus, they’re all so close to each other, you’ll be able to get a taste of them all no matter which particular one you choose as your base.

Property
Number of persons
 Description
Paradiso 2-10 1-5BR, 1-5BA. Historic estate with 15 independent accommodations in ideal location a short distance from southern shore of Lake Garda. Wonderful facilities for families, couples, golf and tennis fanatics.
Miralago 4+2 3BR, 3BA. Delightful little villa overlooking Lago Maggiore. Good for one couple plus guests.
Casa La Perla 4+2 2+BR, 2BA. Comfortable, family-style villa in village with garden right on the water at Lake Maggiore.. Walk to shops, restaurants.
Villa Visconti 4-10 2-5BR, 1-3BA. Period villa with swimming pool overlooking Lago Maggiore from village above. Walk to shopping, restaurants. Rented either as a whole or as two 2BR flats with an optional studio add-on. Great property for 2 families traveling together.
Casina del Lago 5+1

3+BR, 2BA. Absolutely delightful guest cottage perched right on the shore of Lake Maggiore. Ideal for two couples or a family with very well-behaved children.

Casa Rezzonico 6+2 3+BR, 4BA. Romantically perched directly on the water on Lake Como's northwest shore. Very comfortably furnished with enchanting views. Awkward access means physical fitness is absolutely essential.
Il Sorriso 8 4BR, 2BA. Incredible views from this delightful family villa overlooking Lago di Como between Bellagio and the city of Como. You’ve got to be physically fit for this one.
Casa La Spiaggia 9 5BR, 2BA, swimming pool. Great villa for one or two families located directly on the southwest shore of Lago Maggiore.
Villa San Giulio 8+2 4+BR, 4BA. Family period villa overlooking Lago di Orta. Full of character and feeling, beautiful views. Comfortable without being upscale or fancy.
Villa Donizetti 10 5BR, 3BA. Villa at water’s edge, full of character and history, walking distance to Cannero Riviera on Lago Maggiore. Comfortable without being upscale or fancy. Gorgeous views.
Villa Belvedere 12 7BR, 5BA, aboveground pool. Right on the shore of Lake Como with superb water and mountain views. Ideal for couples traveling together.