Terracotta Eden

These views are the reason you come to the Italian Lakes – and this charming stone villa boasts seven hectares of private gardens, so you can enjoy it in complete privacy. Hidden among the trees, you'll find a swimming pool, complete with a convenient changing room – but there's always the option of a quiet drink on one of the sunny balconies back at the house. Some of the interiors may lean towards the eclectic, but there's no doubt it's cosy (we love the snug reading room), and the games room is a fun surprise for younger guests. Beyond this home, though, there's much more to see – it's just a ten-minute drive to elegant Stresa.

Home truths:
*There are steep slopes and steps in the garden, so it may not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility. Children should also be supervised at all times.
*The swimming pool is only available for use between mid-May and the end of September.
*If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a cot and a high chair for free. You'll need to request them in advance.
*There is an additional changing room, with a toilet and shower, by the outdoor pool.
*There is an on-site gardener at this home – they live in a separate house located at the bottom of the fenced garden, and are responsible for daily pool maintenance and garden care.