Description

Villa Barbara - Civenna

6 Bedrooms

Location and Surrounding Area
Perched above the village of Civenna, Villa Barbara enjoys an exceptional position on the Lecco arm of Lake Como. Surrounded by forest, yet just a ten-minute walk from the village and 15 minutes’ drive from Bellagio, it offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the lake, the Grigna mountains, and the distant Swiss Alps, while local ferries and amenities are easily accessible. The elevated setting reveals Lake Como’s beauty from every angle, creating a sense of peace.

The village of Civenna, just a short walk from the villa, is a delightful and charming starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Its narrow, winding streets, centuries-old stone houses, and peaceful, sun-dappled atmosphere make it an idyllic retreat full of authentic Italian character. Here, guests can discover local cafés, artisan shops, and traditional trattorias, while enjoying breathtaking views of the lake, nearby mountains, and serene countryside that together create a perfect sense of tranquillity and timeless charm.

A short drive brings you to Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” a town that captivates with its elegance and sophistication. This picturesque lakeside gem enchants with cobbled streets, historic villas, boutique shops, and inviting cafés. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, explore the manicured gardens of Villa Melzi, or take a scenic ferry ride to visit other stunning towns across the lake. Bellagio seamlessly combines culture, history, gastronomy, and the quintessential charm of Lake Como.

For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding area is a spectacular paradise of extraordinary natural beauty. Hiking and walking trails weave through lush forests, rolling hills, and majestic mountains, offering panoramic views of the lake, distant Swiss Alps, and dramatic Grigna peaks. Nearby, the rugged mountains provide a playground for adventure, while the sparkling lake offers endless opportunities for water activities, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the peaceful landscape of Lake Como.

Villa Barbara is 72 km from Milano Linate Airport, 73 km from Lugano Agno Airport, 74 km from Milano Malpensa Airport, and 95 km from Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport. The villa is just 550 m from Civenna, 7 km from Bellagio, 27 km from Lecco, 33 km from Como, 41 km from Moltrasio, 45 km from Laglio, 54 km from Varenna, 60 km from Lenno, 63 km from Tremezzo, and 67 km from Menaggio.

The Property
Villa Barbara is a spectacular mid-century villa nestled in the tranquil forests of Civenna, just a short distance from Bellagio. Designed in collaboration with one of Italy’s most renowned architects, the villa has been carefully renovated to retain its original 1960s character while offering modern luxury. Combining refined elegance with exceptional comfort, Villa Barbara can accommodate up to 12 plus 1 guest in 6 beautifully appointed bedrooms (5 double bedrooms and 1 triple room).

Set within three acres of private grounds, the villa’s exteriors showcase Lake Como’s beauty: the top-floor living room enjoys 180-degree views of the Lecco arm of the lake and the snow-capped Swiss Alps, while the Grigna mountains provide a constantly changing spectacle. Multiple terraces include a lake terrace and a garden terrace with barbecue and poolside dining. A swimming pool (12 x 4 m) with a children’s section, a sauna for six, and a bocce court provide leisure and entertainment.

Inside, the top-floor living room boasts multiple windows framing the lake, a striking belly fireplace, a conversation pit, and original 1960s furnishings including a Formanova dining table. The kitchen features a brass island, bespoke cherry wood cabinetry, two ovens, microwave, dishwasher, double-door fridge with ice-maker, and a washing machine. On the entry floor, the Como and Lecco bedrooms both offer king beds (convertible into twin beds) and en-suite bathrooms with baths and glass-enclosed showers.

Below, four more bedrooms, Bellagio, Varenna, Civenna, and Tremezzo, offer a mix of lake, mountain, and garden vistas. Bellagio has a king bed plus an extra single bed, a private balcony, and an en-suite bathroom with bath and glass-enclosed shower. Varenna and Civenna share a stylish external bathroom. Tremezzo features a king bed, garden access, a walk-in marble shower, and an adjoining TV-equipped anti-room. Each room opens onto a peaceful sitting area, allowing guests to fully appreciate the surrounding nature.

Communal spaces on the lower floor include a cosy living area with three mid-century sofas, a rocking chair original to the villa, coffee tables, a dining table for six, and a small aperitivo/coffee kitchen, ideal for casual gatherings, team-building retreats, or yoga sessions. The villa is serviced by discreet on-site caretakers living in a separate apartment, ensuring your stay is seamless without ever intruding. Despite its secluded location, the villa is only a ten-minute walk from the local village and a 15-minute drive to Bellagio.