A Serene Retreat with a Touch of Adventure
Villa del Balbianello is a hidden gem that transports you to a world of tranquility and natural beauty. Nestled on the shores of Lake Como, this magnificent villa is a sight to behold.
When planning your visit, it's important to note that reaching the villa may require a bit of effort. If you choose to drive, be prepared to park and enjoy a scenic 15 to 20-minute walk on a road leading to the villa. However, if you prefer a more picturesque journey, consider taking the ferry, which operates depending on the season. This adds an adventurous touch to your visit and allows you to soak in the stunning views of the lake.
Once you arrive, the beauty of Villa del Balbianello unfolds before your eyes. Surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens and commanding views of the lake, the villa exudes elegance and charm. It's no wonder the villa has been featured in films such as "Star Wars" and "Casino Royale."
Exploring the villa's interior is like stepping back in time. The rooms are tastefully decorated, showcasing a blend of historical artifacts and exquisite craftsmanship. The knowledgeable and friendly guides provide fascinating insights into the villa's rich history, adding depth to the experience.
One of the highlights of the visit is undoubtedly the breathtaking terrace. As you step onto it, you are greeted by sweeping panoramic views that leave you in awe. The combination of the surrounding natural beauty and the architectural marvel of the villa creates a truly magical atmosphere.
For nature enthusiasts, the villa's surrounding gardens offer a serene escape. You can wander along the well-maintained paths, discovering hidden corners and tranquil spots to relax and take in the stunning surroundings. It's a perfect place to unwind and feel at one with nature.
In conclusion, Villa del Balbianello is a place of unparalleled beauty and charm. While the journey to reach the villa may require a bit of effort, it only adds to the sense of adventure and anticipation. Whether you choose to arrive by foot or ferry, this serene retreat promises an unforgettable experience. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the splendor of Villa del Balbianello and the breathtaking...
Read moreThis place was the highlight of my trip with my family when we visited Lenno. It was the only Villa we visited, solely because many films were filmed there, more specifically Star Wars.
The views from the Villa and the views of the Villa from the lake were quite extraordinary. It was very busy when we arrived and when we left as well, just to note if you’re planning to visit during the summer.
One thing to note is that when at Villa accessibility is limited, but it is accessible by boat which you can take next to the restaurant Lido de Lenno. I am fully aware that it was built many years ago and any improvements or additions would be very costly. I took my mother with me and she’s not able to fully walk on an incline to get into the villa for the guided tour.
We were able to take our time to get up to the top to enjoy the guided tour of the inside of the villa. When the tour began, the guide was very knowledgeable about Guido’s expeditions and the items that are currently on display inside. I cannot remember her name, but she was very kind in allowing my mother and I (someone with a very swollen ankle) the opportunity to use the elevator available inside the Villa to go down to each floor.
The only downside of this was that going down to view the magical dome tree, there wasn’t the option to go down and up via elevator. There was only the entrance which is at the top, and going back up was a task if you have issues with incline like my mum did. Unfortunately she wasn’t able want to go down, as it would be very difficult make her way back to then go down to the exit by boat.
I did notice that there was an entrance to the garden where the magical dome tree is from the building, but it was locked. It could be that it lead to the souvenir shop at the front but I’m not 100% sure.
Other than that, everything else was great. Villa is well maintained and it was an eye opener to how much wealth there is by just visiting Lenno and this particular villa.
Getting to the villa by taxi is a bit pricey, we paid €100 to get to the area in Lenno from como. Getting back from the villa was a task but we figured it out by getting the bus. Just an fyi, it...
Read moreHold onto your hats because this experience was nothing short of mind-blowing! Stepping foot into Villa Balbianello was like entering a whole new world of wonder. And guess what? The adventure began right from the get-go! You can only access this paradise by boat, adding that extra touch of exclusivity and mystery. I mean, talk about feeling like a real explorer!
Now, let me tell you, I wasn't about to settle for anything less than extraordinary. So, I hopped on a private tour boat to get the best of both worlds—luxury and excitement! As we approached the villa's dock, a rush of opulence washed over me, and the views were simply jaw-dropping! Private luxury? Check. Awe-inspiring imagery? Double check!
We decided to go all-in and opt for the guided tour. Oh boy, was that a fantastic decision! The guide filled our minds with incredible tales of the villa's history and its extravagant last owner, Guido Monzino. That man knew how to live it up! He transformed this place into an extravagant mansion, each room oozing with uniqueness and charm.
And let's not forget the gardens—oh, the gardens! They were like something out of a fairytale, impeccably manicured and offering a leisurely stroll with picture-perfect moments at every turn. I felt like I was living in a dream!
But hold on, the excitement doesn't end there! Brace yourself for the icing on the cake—the viewpoint. Trust me; it's worth every bit of anticipation. Imagine standing there, taking in the breathtaking, uninterrupted views of both sides of Lake Como. I was left speechless!
Oh, and here's a little fun fact to spice things up even more: Star Wars Episode 2 and James Bond's Casino Royale were filmed right here in this very villa! Can you believe it? Strike your best poses and feel like a movie star while soaking in the mesmerizing scenery.
So, if you're up for an adventure of a lifetime, Villa Balbianello is the place to be. Prepare to be amazed, enchanted, and swept off your feet! This place...
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