Lake view villas and apartments

Holidays with a view of the lakes

The Italian lakes sit at the foot of the Alps, and the view from a terrace changes all day, from still morning water to ferries criss-crossing in the afternoon and the mountains turning pink at dusk. This collection brings together villas and apartments with a view of the water, for breakfast, lunch and that evening drink.

A lake view suits couples, walkers and families who want a gentler pace than the coast, and anyone pairing a villa stay with a few days in Milan or Verona.

Choosing the right view

Lake views range from a glimpse between trees to a wide panorama from a hillside terrace. Higher positions usually give the bigger view but often mean narrow, winding roads and a drive down to the shore, while homes at the water's edge are closer to ferries and promenades but may sit beside the lakeside road.

Ask which rooms and terraces have the view, which way they face for the evening sun, and how you reach the water for a swim. If you plan to explore by ferry rather than car, ask how far the nearest landing stage is.

Spring is a good time to visit, when the lakeside gardens are in flower, and September is often warm and settled. In winter ferry services are reduced and many hotels and restaurants close, so the lakes are much quieter.

Which lake suits you

Lake Como has steep, wooded shores and handsome towns such as Bellagio and Varenna, with villa gardens including Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello. Lake Garda is the largest lake, with the gentle southern shore around Sirmione and the Bardolino vineyards, and a more dramatic northern end where Riva del Garda and Torbole are popular for sailing and windsurfing.

Lake Maggiore stretches into Switzerland, and from Stresa boats run out to the Borromean Islands, where Isola Bella's terraced gardens are a highlight. For something different, Lake Trasimeno in Umbria offers a lower-key lake view among olive groves.

Browse the villas listed below to find a lake view that suits the way you like to holiday.