Carried Skyward

Perched high above Como, this apartment earns its elevated position with a wraparound balcony that stretches across views of the lake and surrounding mountains – a panorama that shifts quietly with the light. The interiors carry a distinctly Italian hand, pairing contemporary lines with considered design pieces that feel at home in this setting. One thing to know before you book: reaching the apartment means climbing around 150 steps, so it rewards the sure-footed. For those who don't mind the ascent, the views waiting at the top make it hard to leave the balcony.

Home truths:
* Reaching the apartment means climbing approximately 150 steps – there is no lift. It's a workout on arrival and every time you head out and back, so it's worth factoring in if you have mobility concerns or are travelling with heavy luggage.
* If you're travelling with a baby, your host can provide a cot. You'll need to request it in advance.
* There is no private parking space here. Como's city centre can be busy with traffic, so we recommend arriving by train – Como San Giovanni station is well connected to Milan – or using a public car park nearby.