Description
There aren’t many holiday properties in the world that truly live up to the hyperbole. This is one of them. Villa Josephine is a luxury villa on the banks of Lake Como, and it’s no exaggeration to say it’s among the most beautiful houses in Europe.
Set in extensive grounds, and with stunning views out over Lake Como and to Bellagio on the opposite shore, this is a really special location. The lake is ever present and as you wander among the manicured gardens and terraces and from room to room in the exquisitely designed house, it’s clear, azure waters appear through every window and round every corner.
The rooms are decorated in a fresh but classic style and everything is finished to the highest of standards. However, as well as the elegant sitting room, glamorous dining room and library where you can enjoy formal meals and quiet contemplation in beautiful surroundings, there are also less formal areas – a second dining room and a family living room with play room, so that those with children can really relax and not feel they have to be on their ‘best behaviour’.
In separate buildings, a gym and spa are housed, both with wonderful facilities, all exclusive to guests of the villa. But the jewel in Josephine’s crown must be the beautiful infinity pool, with views over the lake. Taking a dip here in the early evening as the sun goes down and the lights start to twinkle on over in Bellagio is an experience not to be missed.
If you want to escape the villa for a few hours, (and we really can’t imagine why you would!), there are lots of activities that can be arranged for you, from the 18-hole golf course at Menaggio, ten minutes’ chauffeured drive away, to guided trips out on your private boat to have a swim or a picnic on the lake. You can even take a small plane out over the lake if you wish.
Wherever you spend your day there will always be a warm welcome home from the experienced and friendly staff at the villa. Take your wine out onto the terrace or down to the water’s edge as you wait for your dinner to be served. Pre-prandial drinks don’t come any better than this.