The Belgian owners of this charming ancient home were so enchanted by their wanderings through the Roman towns dotting the shores of Lake Como that they transformed this historic village house into a modern, design-forward space all their own. Clean-lined, mid-century-styled furnishings designed to make you smile pop perfectly against the traditional wooden beams overhead and the minimalist backdrop of soft, white walls. 

This delightful vacation home for rent in Italy has been reimagined for modern living. We love the ode to iconic 1960s design trends found in the furnishings—from the pendant light fixtures in the bedrooms to the tulip chairs in the cheerful, yellow-tabled dining area.

With views of iconic Lake Como from the home’s rooftop terrace, this multi-leveled structure sits only steps from the shimmering lakeshore. The stone-studded terracotta-toned village of Brienno is perched on a slip of land tucked between Lago di Como and the surrounding Lepontine Alps. Four hundred residents call the quiet village home year-round, and once unpacked in this inviting renovation, you might want to stay put, too.

Modern minimalism highlights the historic bones of the home, creating a comfortable space for unwinding indoors. The entry opens into a wide living area outfitted with a fireplace, sound system, books and games, and sizeable floor-to-ceiling windows—something for everyone to enjoy. A galley kitchen spreads along the ground floor, updated with modern amenities for preparing meals to share in the mod dining room fit for six. Or, grab an al-fresco meal up an inventive laddered stairway to the rooftop, where a snug terrace offers lake views and lounge beds to soak up the sunshine and panoramic vistas, and a mini-kitchen is set up for added convenience.

Up stairs hewn from local Moltrasian stone, three bedrooms each feature double beds laid with Italian linens. The rooms share two bathrooms, one equipped with a bath, the second, a shower. The master bedroom reveals the home’s ancient history, with Roman remains plastered into the wall for posterity and beauty. We appreciate the thoughtful punches of color and texture provided by the throw pillows, rugs, and funky side tables and chairs in the bedrooms.

This vacation home for rent in Italy is suitable for up to six guests.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Wifi throughout, laundry room with washer and dryer, dressing room, bidet, beach chairs, table, and towels provided for transporting lakeside.

AROUND

Brienno is a small, pre-Roman village along western bank of Lake Como, a short 15km from the lively village of Como. The lake itself, with its picturesque stone seating terraces, spreads out for miles only steps from the home. Small pedestrian paths line the village, leading into the hillsides above.

A motorboat rental in nearby Argegno lets you explore the dreamy lakefront villages of Torno, Lenno, and Laglio, and the resplendent gardens of Bellagio or Como with its luxurious waterfront villas. Art mecca Isola Comacina sits out in the lake an exciting water taxi ride away, and the lovely lidos, or beaches, in towns like Moltrasio offer stunning beachside dining.

When the mountains call, head into the hills on foot or bike. There’s much to discover at higher altitudes, including small ski stations and rustic mountain refuges with their picturesque wood fired pizzerias on site.

LOCATION

Brienno, Como, Italy. Nearest airport: Milan Malpensa (46km).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round