A Guide to the Italian Lakes Region

The Italian Lakes boast a Hollywood-like lustre, and you may feel like you've been cast in a movie the moment you step onto the balcony attached to any number of villas in Italy. Before you start quoting "Ocean's 11" or "Charlie's Angels," you may want to take a look at the pristine body dotted with bobbing sailboats and leisure travelers who have nothing better to do than soak up the sun.

Situated along the Swiss-Italian border, the Lakes region boasts not only a spectacular landscape, but also what many travelers have come to expect in a luxury vacation: decadent food and wine. While staying in Lombardy, you'll have ample opportunities to indulge in the area's sophisticated multiculturalism, which combines influences from Austria, Spain, Germany and France, to create a perfect synthesis of traditions.

If you're looking for the most idyllic villa rentals in the northern Italian region, Lake Como is absolutely stunning.

Whether you're staying at vacation rentals for a week or a month, you should set aside at least a few days to explore Lake Como. A number of villas are located along the shores of this deep blue body of water, which is best explored on a ferry or rented sailboat. In the village of Bellagio, visitors can eat a delicious meal right along the water at one of the many lakeside restaurants. If, on the other hand, they're up for a bit of an adventure, travelers can head to Ristorante Bilacus, which has charming views of the village as well as a traditional Italian menu.

For a taste of true decadence, you should consider staying at Cira, which is literally perched right along the shore of Lake Como. With three bedrooms and top-of-the-line interior designs, this contemporary villa is ideal for families or vacationing couples looking for a getaway.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals? Explore our portfolio of villa rentals in The Lakes, as well as villa rentals in all of Italy.