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BACK
TO VILLA
MAGAZINE
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Italy, that
unequaled dreamland. The day has arrived for us to pay another visit to
Como, Italy. The name literally means "how" in Italian, and to this
I respond: How can a more wonderful place exist? It is truly a contender
for one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This serene lake set into the
mountains commands great respect and admiration. Villas abound here, however
rental properties are few (unfortunately for us).
This time
we have been introduced to the village of Menagio and Villa Lugarna which
is comprised of six bedrooms, a waterfall, and gardens overlooking a man-made,
swimmable lake right on the golf course. Also available near Vezio, is
a villa of the same name: another option. Lovlier than any stop along
the way is the dreamlike Bellagio , our next stop, and here again we are
left to wonder, "Is this real?" Perhaps one of the most romantic
and dream-like trips is the frequent boat rides across to this gold and
red stone-lined village comprised of heavenly shops, and small streets
"pieton" (no cars) with narrow stairs that tumble towards the
lake, and the cafés that line the village's impeccably landscaped
harbor.
Down to
Garda and in the direction of Florence, our last stop is Lucca. Here,
Villa Michaela (which accommodates 22 people or more) awaits you, your
family and friends. A swimming pool, tennis court, gourmet chef and staff
are all present, and even a cooking school option in some seasons. Your
choice, lake or countryside, Italy touches us with its changing moods
and landscape, its markets, people, history. . . Coming to Italy is always
like coming home.
Photos
by Alfredo Merat & Wendy Wachtel
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