La Dolce Vita by Merle Wilkening | 31st May, 2024 | Prime Properties
Some places on earth feel like something straight out of a fairytale. This historic residence with private access to Lake Como celebrates the Italian way of life at its finest. Like a rare gem, it shines as magnificently on the inside as it does on the outside, setting the scene for balmy summer evenings by the water’s edge.
„Dove c’è acqua, c’è vita.” Where there is water there is life. This Italian proverb captures the essence of this place precisely. Lake Como – or Lago di Como, as the locals call it – stretches across Lombardy with its three long, narrow arms acting as a Y-shaped life force. This elegant region in northern Italy is one of the most sought-after parts of the country.
The mere thought of living here is enough to transport anyone into a dream-like realm. As the surface of the lake glistens in the sun, the mountain range rises up behind it like a perfectly painted panorama. One particularly special way to arrive home here is by boat, gliding gently through the shallow waters, past the jetty and straight into this villa’s very own boathouse.
This splendid residence is situated in a prime location in Moltrasio, on the western shores of Lake Como. With its historic centre and sprawling estates, this charming municipality is regarded as one of the pearls of the lake, set against a panorama that is endlessly fascinating. Such magnificent Lombardy estates have long been owned by aristocratic families and wealthy entrepreneurs. Thanks to its mild, sunny climate, the region is particularly sought after during the summer season. It still attracts high-profile individuals who have either acquired a magnificent property here as a second home or come and stay in one of the many grand hotels on the lake. The small town of Cernobbio and the world-famous Villa d’Este are just a few minutes away. The palazzo was built in the 16th century by the architect Pellegrino Pellegrini as a summer residence for the Cardinal of Como, Tolomeo Gallio, and has served as a tranquil retreat for the aristocracy throughout its long history. Villa d’Este has been welcoming guests as an elegant luxury resort since 1873.
A taste of this genuine Italian opulence can be experienced in a private setting inside this villa for sale, which dates from the early 20th century and is on the market together with almost its entire inventory. It is deemed a masterpiece of classical architecture – a style typical of the estates built around the lake during this period. Surrounded by a flourishing park with centuries-old trees, palms and magnolias, the property affords a view over Lake Como that is second to none. While the estate offers ample privacy, the town centre is still nonetheless within walking distance.
A driveway winds its way through the garden to the gates of the main villa, which extends over three levels. The ground floor plays host to a lavish living area featuring several lounges, as well as a kitchen, dining room, veranda and guest bathroom. The master bedroom with an en suite bathroom awaits on the first floor, along with a study, two further bedrooms, two bathrooms and another living area. Meanwhile, the second floor affords even more living space, bedrooms, bathrooms, and a sauna room.
Every corner of this property impresses with its rich heritage, grand charm and impeccable details, which include coffered ceilings, marble and parquet floors, precious fabrics, and an impressive main fireplace. The interior furnishings and antiques have been collected by the French owners and the estate custodians before them. Many of the walls are adorned with eye-catching wallpaper and elaborately handpainted murals, which have either been preserved in their original state or painstakingly restored. Pillars, vaulted ceilings and arched windows round off the ornate details both inside and out.
The main living area opens up to a large outdoor space enclosed by lush greenery and palm trees. There is an outdoor kitchen, various sunny spots and shaded seating areas that tempt residents to relocate their lives outside during the milder months of the year and enjoy the panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountain scenery. A stone stairway leads down to the terrace below with a large swimming pool, a sunbathing area and a pool house surrounded by jasmine.
Those who reside here get to choose: take a dip in the lake on a morning or swim laps in their own private pool. Another special highlight is the boathouse at the foot of the property, facing out towards the lake. This stone building provides ample space to accommodate a boat and water sports equipment, as well as another room that could be transformed into a waterside wellness spa. The private jetty leads out onto the lake via a floating pontoon.
Not far at all from the main villa, there are two separate residential units to be found in the grounds of this impressive estate. Il Castelletto, built in the style of a small castle complete with decorative turrets, hosts a living room, bedroom, bathroom, and veranda. The other is a stone outbuilding with interiors that include a living room with a kitchenette, two bedrooms, and a bathroom. The impressive lakefront listing also comes complete with a commodious double garage, which is easily accessible from the road behind the villa.
