Villa Del Balbianello
Posted in: Books and Movies Lakes Localities Museums & Galleries Must See Attractions Pretty Views Tourist Attractions

The stunning Villa del Balbianello is already an impossibly beautiful architectural gem that is well worth exploring should you find a villa on Lake Como but in addition to being an important historical and artistic attraction, it has also been the filming location for some famous films.


It is no wonder that the Villa del Balbianello has caught the eye of location scouts multiple times – its good looks are truly cinematic! Perched prettily over Lake Como with blooming manicured gardens that directly overlook and flow down to the water, a lovely example of 18th century architecture, and filled with incredible works of art and furniture from all over the world, it is exquisite and utterly romantic. 

A swan in Varenna
Posted in: Lakes Localities Lombardy Must See Attractions Northwest Italy Pretty Views Tourist Attractions Travel Tips

Famously lovely Lake Como is one of the impossibly scenic lakes that makes up the area sometimes known as Italy’s Lake District. Along with the other lakes stretching across this area of Northern Italy (including Lake Maggiore, Lugano, Iseo, and Garda), this beautiful body of water is dotted with islands that house some extraordinary attractions and is surrounded by picturesque shoreside villages and towns as well as impressive peaks and lush greenery and forests. Those interested in taking in beyond gorgeous scenery and in having all sorts of lovely places to explore will find no shortage of wonderful things to see and do but those who find a villa in Lake Como should also slow down, take in deep breaths of that clean and sweet lakeside air, and generally just appreciate the magic all around them. While there are plenty of incredible hiking routes to try out, historic villas to discover, gardens to admire, islands to seek out, concerts to attend, water sports to enjoy, and much more besides, we also suggest taking your time and merely wandering about some of those charming towns, admiring the beauty that abounds all around. One of the prettiest villages in which to do just that is Varenna

Lake Misurina, Pio XII
Posted in: Activities Hiking Lakes Localities Northeast Italy Pretty Views Skiing & Winter Sports Tourist Attractions Veneto Water Sports

Wes Anderson’s films are immediately recognisable by their distinct visual aesthetic that usually makes use of symmetry, pastel shades, retro elements, and impossibly quaint and scenic settings. Due to the immense popularity of his films and just how specific the look of them is, many people have come to see all sorts of real-life places as Wes Anderson-esque. One example that we have stumbled across recently is Lake Misurina that is a must-see for those considering a vacation rental in Veneto. Looking rather reminiscent of setting of the titular hotel from his movie, The Grand Budapest Hotel, the view across this alpine lake takes in the symmetrical and dollhouse-like Istituto Pio XII. Though this building is actually a healthcare centre specialising in the care of children and not actually a hotel, it is one more element that makes this already scenic and lovely lake a must-see.


Known as the, “Pearl of the Dolomites”, Lake Misurina is the largest natural lake in the Cadore district and is located in Misurina, in the hamlet of Auronzo di Cadore. A truly picturesque part of the world, it is a spot steeped in local legend and boasts a long list of activities and outdoor pursuits, making it an ideal place for a scenic and fun day out while on vacation in Veneto. Just one of many utterly lovely corners of this region full of vineyards, pretty towns, historic villas, rolling hills, alpine peaks, and more, there is much to see, discover, and explore for lovers of the Great Outdoors once they find a villa in Veneto.

Lake Orta
Posted in: Day Trips Lakes Localities Lombardy Milan Northwest Italy
Italy's Lake District – comprised notably of Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore – is one of the country's most desirable upscale resort locations. Here you will find pretty lakeside towns, wonderful scenery, excellent hiking trails, brilliant water sport facilities, and endless things to see and do in the most magical of settings. However, if you're interested in all of these traits and getting a little bit off the beaten tourist path, then we recommend actually foregoing these better-known destinations in favour of the lesser-known but no less lovely Lake Orta. A favourite getaway of the wealthy and cosmopolitan set of Milan, locals have largely kept this absolute gem to themselves but it can (and should) be readily visited if you have found a vacation rental in Lombardy and you happen to be looking to experience the delights of the Italian lakes without busloads of other tourists to contend with.
Laghi Alimini
Posted in: Apulia Beaches Lakes Localities Pretty Views Southern Italy Tourist Attractions
There are lots of wonderful coastal destinations and natural gems to explore in Apulia and great swathes of this beautiful region in the south of Italy are protected but one particular area that combines all of the above and is a must-see for those who have found a villa in Apulia is the incredible Laghi Alimini, or Alimini Lakes.

Located north of Otranto, the Alimini Lakes is one of the most beautiful natural areas of Salento and Apulia by far and consists of a protected oasis extending over around 1000 hectares, two bodies of water, and a stunning chunk of the coast. These two bodies of water are the main stars of the show here (though the beaches are also quite stunning) and are known as the Alimini Grande and Alimini Piccolo.