Spellbindingly beautiful, bursting with history and coveted by A-listers: It could only be Lake Como.
The lake has taken on many guises throughout its life; once a military battle site, now a favored vacation destination for the rich and famous, and always an inspiration for poets, artists and musicians, Como is a place like no other. Where better, then, to immerse yourself into the captivating art of an opera performance?
At several of its Italian properties, luxury villa rental company Red Savannah can arrange just that — an exclusive opera performance to be enjoyed in complete privacy.
[See also: The Most Enchanting Hotels on the Amalfi Coast]
Among the lineup is Villa La Cassinella, a handsome palazzo nestled on the shores of Lake Como near the pretty village of Lenno.
Accessed only via boat, La Cassinella is grand as they come with space for 17 guests across decadently fitted rooms imagined by English interior designer Maggie Austin.
The villa dates to the 19th century but in recent years has reemerged following a careful restoration. Now, it artfully balances splendid details such as Italian antiques and vintage furnishings with modern amenities including a floodlit tennis court, a media room and the latest Technogym equipment.
As the sun begins to dip behind the mountains, casting an orange glow around the lake, head down to La Cassinella’s pristine waterfront gardens to be serenaded by an entrancing opera performance — be it a soprano solo or an entire ensemble. Little resembles la bella vita better.
From $135,000 per week. Contact Amy Ropner, villa specialist, +44 124 278 7815, redsavannah.com