Approaching Villa Monet from above on the main road linking Italy with Switzerland, its easy to see how it got its name. Overlooking the shores of Lake Maggiore and surrounded by a light dappled landscape, the garden of the property is planted with bamboo trees, hydrangea and evergreens while the lakefront bursts forth with a kaleidoscopic display of azaleas, rhododendrons and two hundred-year-old camellias. Aromatic jasmine and wisteria climb the blue-shuttered façade adding the perfect romantic touch. Halfway between Stresa and Locanro, the stretch of coastline between Verbania and Cannero is renowned for its subtropical vegetation and gentle climate. Just over 200 yards from the village of Cannero, restaurants, shops and cafes are all within walking distance. There is even a regular ferry service from town to Stresa and the Borromean Islands. But for guests traveling with their own private yacht, the property also has its own private beach and mooring, as well as parking for those reduced to traveling by land!

Spacious, bright and traditionally decorated, each of the four bedrooms overlooks the lake and are spread out among four floors. The main floor is divided between the living room with fireplace and TV [no satellite], sitting room, dining room, bathroom [with shower], and a well-equipped kitchen. Going upstairs to the next floor guests will find a twin bedroom and a double, both with their own sinks. The third floor has another twin room, a queen-sized bedroom and two bathrooms [one with shower, the other with tub and hand-held shower]. The mansard attic features a large queen-sized bedroom and sitting area with skylight offering a spectacular view of the lake. Here one will also find a laundry room.

At a glance:
detached location - baby bed/cot: 100€/rental - oven - electric iron - dishwasher - BBQ - pets: allowed on request 60€/week per pet - heating - internet - fireplace - microwave - SAT/cable-TV - telephone - washing machine

The mountains and lakes of Lombardy and Piedmont provide a superb setting for an active holiday with lots of scope for cultural experiences, too. Lago Maggiore, Lago di Orta and Lago di Como captivate by their fantastic location, surrounded by mountains. The lakes offer every conceivable water sport. All the main holiday locations have their own wind-surfing- and sailing schools. Northern Italy offers exciting diversity not just in its landscapes but also in its art, many different cultures having left their traces here. Piemont is one of the most famous Italian wine-growing areas, of which the most exquisite and famous product is Barolo. The excellent reputation of the Piedmontese cuisine is known far beyond its borders.

Getting there: flights to Milan, rental car