Villa San Giovanni

The villa

Villa San Giovanni is in a much - desired location close to the town of Pallanza, which holds a wonderful position on the shores of Lake Maggiore, the second - largest lake in Italy. The villa is slightly elevated, giving it fabulous views over the lake. It boasts extensive gardens at any property by Lake Maggiore, set in 15,000m² of beautifully maintained grounds. The prestigious villa boasts traditional interiors with period and antique furnishings, yet has all the necessary modern amenities for a more than comfortable stay. It has high ceilings and beautiful parquet oak flooring, giving guests a real sense of exclusivity. Villa San Giovanni can accommodate up to eighteen guests, making it the perfect base for a special family celebration or gathering; in the lower season, just the first floor will be opened, sleeping up to nine guests for a reduced price. The main living accommodation on the ground floor includes living and dining rooms, a games room and a fully - equipped kitchen. Upstairs, the first floor is surrounded by a large balcony from which the beautiful lake views can be enjoyed. There is a central living room with the bedrooms arranged around it. On this level are four bedrooms, a combination of doubles and twins, three boast en - suite bathrooms and a family bathroom. On the second floor are a further four bedrooms and three family bathrooms. The outside space features gardens gently sloping down over different levels and terraces towards the lake. There are plenty of fabulous spots for picnics or al fresco dining while sampling a range of local delicacies. The large private pool is the perfect spot to soak up the surroundings, and due to its south - facing position, you can enjoy the sun all day long!

There's something magical about the lakes of northern Italy bordering Switzerland - the snow - capped mountains, elegant villas, charming villages and narrow glacial lakes, all of which make for a camera - ready scene of eye - popping beauty.

And Lake Maggiore, Italy's second largest lake, is no exception. Sleepy cobblestone villages, exceptional flowers, views over glittering waters, ethereal islands and the odd castle - it's no wonder such illustrious visitors as Byron, Shelley and Hemingway graced its very shores.

When the Simplon Pass train from Switzerland, one of the Alps most beautiful crossings opened, it meant easier access to this beautiful lake. And many visited for all its beauty, including its little islands located on the western arm of this stunning stretch of water: the tiny Isola Bella - a place of decadent parties for the nobility of Europe; Isola dei Pescatori with its population of just 50 people and a number of fabulous fish restaurants; Isola Madre featuring the most beautiful botanical flowers. The Borromean Islands are well worth a visit. Inland, explore the pretty town of Stresa situated below the majestic peak of Mottarone and enjoy its many cafes, restaurants and bars - especially the ones with views out to the Borromean islands.

Why not take a cable car up Mottarone for a truly spectacular view across the Alps? Amble around the town of Verbania or Cannobio's lakefront piazza with its ancient buildings. Then there's picturesque Maccagno and Luino with its famous market - amongst many more on this enchanting lake that will quite literally take your breath away.