Enjoy this spectacular view of the lake & Alps with your daily breakfast
Location: Cremia, Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy, Europe (10min to Menaggio, Center Lake Towns,Famous Villas & Gardens) View Map
Accommodations: House-Independent on 3 Sides, 3 Bedrooms + Other (See Description), 2.5 Baths (Sleeps 7)
"Dreamer's House" (Villa Sognatore) is a true lakefront property located ten kilometers north of Menaggio outside the small hamlet of San Vito on the coveted northwest shore of Lake Como.
The house uniquely positions its guests directly on the lake in a natural setting and provides private access to the water, which is the best place to acquaint oneself with the beauty and tranquility that makes Lake Como so unforgettable.
The setting is a botanical paradise since the property is surrounded by beautiful, well-maintained, terracing gardens with mature specimen plants, palm trees, flowering shrubs & trees, and perennials. The property includes four stone patios at different heights, and two large terraces off the living room and main bedrooms on the lakeside of the house, all affording breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps and pre-Alps.
In 2008, a new scenic walkway on the lake passes near the property, giving the guest walking access to restaurants and the lakeside village of San Vito.
Inside the house, the top floor consists of a large room combining the living and dining rooms and a large eat-in kitchen with island, plus a new full bath with mosaic tiles and modern Italian design. In the living room, the wall facing the lake is only windows, with double doors opening to a large terrace with sweeping panoramas. There is a satellite TV system with news/movies/sports in English or Italian, as well as terrestrial TV with mostly Italian channels. A multi-region DVD player (plays codes 1-6) has been added.
The middle floor is composed of master and guest bedrooms, both with two single beds that can be combined to form a double-size bed. Each room features large picture windows with lake & mountain views and terrace access. There is a third small room with a small bed and baby crib (the house actually sleeps 7 + 1 baby). The full bath includes shower, bidet/toilet, and double vanity. Both bedrooms open onto a large middle terrace, where stairs lead down to the lawn and lakefront. Here there is a detached "mini casa" guest house with two single beds and half bath.
The mini casa opens onto a large stone patio two meters (6 ft.) from the lake, featuring a new teak outdoor furniture set. There are private stairs leading from the stone ledge into the lake (child soft safety fence is optional).
The property is entered by an electronic gate that leads down into a covered car port with one space reserved for the house (additional parking available on street above). From there stairs lead down through gardens to a stone patio with table and benches suitable for barbecuing with a magnificent view of lake, mountains, surrounding specimen plants and rock garden (parts of garden are owned by neighbors).
The properties on the left and right of the house are vacation houses NOT rented by their owners. Therefore, the owner kindly requests that common courtesy is observed when these neighbors are present. In addition, this is a no pet and no smoking (inside) environment. Children are welcome, and the house is baby-equipped with high chair, crib, tub, and linens.
Additional location information: by car (highly recommended - closest bus stop c. 300 meters), ten minutes from Menaggio (a fashionable main resort in the central lake area that is a hub for ferry, bus, speed and cruise boat connections), Villa Carlotta-Tremezzo 20 minutes, Varenna (Villa Cipressi) and Bellagio (Villa Melzi) 30 minutes via ferry, Colico 45 minutes, Como one hour, Lugano one hour, Milan city center one-and-one-half hours, Milan Malpensa/Linate airports one-and-one-half hours, Bergamo two hours, Saint Moritz two hours, Verona & Zurich three hours, Venice four hours, and Florence four hours.
Information on restaurants (two within walking distance), shopping, hiking trails, and public villas available on request from the owner, who frequently visits the area.
Detail on the unique position of the house: the house is at the bottom of a sloping hill leading into the lake, and therefore is separated a good distance from the nearest road above both by height and length because the 200 sq. meters of gardens and terraces stand between the back of the house and the road (many lakefront houses are built up too close to the road and have to suffer endless road noise and lights; other "lakefront" properties either have access to the lake through a public beach in front or have no lake access at all!). A set of lighted, well-maintained stone stairs with railing winds through the gardens and terraces to the house approx. 25 meters (100 ft) below the road (see picture link for more details).
The front of the house on the lake provides complete serenity, including stone patios and a lush grass yard, since it is separated further from the mainland by the building superstructure itself. The view across the lake is 2.5 km of open space, giving one a complete 180+ degree view of the lake, pre-Alps, small Alpine and lakeside villages on the opposite shore (Corenno Plinio (including a fully preserved medieval castle), Dervio, Dorio etc), and - further in the distance - the towering Italian/Swiss Bernina Alps. Please see photos on linked website for more detail.
Guest Comments: Please click on the link to read what some of our 600+ guests have said about their stay during the 6 years we have rented the property.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer: Located in basement
- Dryer: Located in basement
- Linens Provided: Swimming/Sunning towels not included.
- Covered Parking: Enter via secured, electronic gate with remote control. Lighted. Designated single spot.
- Off Street Parking: Available just above the property on the local road.
- Parking for RV/Boat/Trailer: Buoy for boats is 25 yards off shore in front of the house
- Beds
- Twin/Single Bed (7) : Can be put together or placed apart, two in each of 3 bedrooms, one in 4th room.
- Crib: Linens also provided. Baby tub and optional safety fence provided.
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV: Sky Italia, featuring language option (English or Italian), news, sports, entertainment, movies etc. Reception includes CNBC, CNN, BBC, Fox, Fox News, National Geographic.
- TV (No Cable/Satellite): Cable can be unplugged to receive terrestrial Italian stations.
- DVD
- CD Player
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen: Also features filter coffee maker, toaster, egg cooker, microwave, KitchenAid Blender, coffee bean grinder.
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator: Including freezer section.
- Dishwasher: Small, half the normal size.
- Microwave
- Outdoor Features
- Charcoal BBQ Grill: Brand new Weber charcoal grill, with all utensils.
- Deck/Patio: Stone terrace is above house, up stairs, featuring splendid panormic views of the lake and mountains, large stone table and benches, landscaped, flower planters, set in garden, water faucet in stone fountain.
- Balcony: One in the middle of the garden, just off the main stairway down to the house.
- Lanai (2) : Two large terraces facing lake and mountains, covered. Top terrace, thru double glass doors off of living room, has sun awning and furniture. Middle terrace is accessible from both master and guest bedrooms, providing access to front lawn on lakefront. Both terraces feature uninterrupted 180+ panoramic vistas with unforgettable, ever-changing views of the lake and pre-Alps/Alps (often snow-capped).
- View/Location
- Lakefront: The grassy yard on the lakeside of the house ends with a stone patio and railing. Built into the railing are private metal stairs leading down to a concrete ledge in the lake water. Unobstructed view of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains and green nature. The highlight of the property!
- Mountain View: The property is situated well north on Lake Como, where the PreAlps begin growing into the Alps. Views of these PreAlps and 3,000 meter peaks in Italy & Switzerland can be seen north of the property from all terraces.
- Communications
- WiFi (Wireless Internet): Available end of May, 2009.
- Other Amenities
- Optional buoy for boats directly in front of house for rent, Multi-Region DVD player (plays codes 1-6), Exercise Bike, 1 bicycle, Full Eat-in Kitchen with island, Safe with Key, Laundry Rack, Iron and Ironing Board, Teak Table, Chairs & Sun Loungers, Cantina for Extra Storage, Window Shutters that can be lowered and raised for climate regulation.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Kid Friendly: Guests can erect an optional soft, secure safety fence in the front yard to prevent small toddlers from reaching the edge of the patio/lakefront wall.
- Smoking Not Allowed: Smoking allowed on the top stone terrace overlooking the property, in consideration of the neighbors.
- Activities (on site and nearby)
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
- Sailing
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Swimming
- Snorkeling/Diving
- Windsurfing
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Downhill/Alpine Skiing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Rock Climbing
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Antiquing
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Miniature golf
- Horseback Riding
- Other Activities
- Swimming and water sports right from the house, Golf (Croce), Fitness Center (Porlezza and Bellagio incl. Luxury Spa), 2 Restaurants Within Walking Distance, Boat Museum in Pianello del Lario, Boat Cruises on Lake from Menaggio, (some stops in Cremia during peak summer season), Windsurfing (300 meters walking from house at Lumin and all over northern lake, San Vito is known as one of the best windsurfing areas on the lake), Skiing (St, Moritz 89 kilometers, Madesimo 1 hr), For more information see the excellent Tourist Information Office in Piazza Garibaldi, Menaggio.
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
Take 30% off when booking with less than 45 days until arrival !
June 27-Sept.4 $2,700/wk Sept.5-Oct.9 $1,900/wk Oct.10-Nov.6th $1,500/wk $245/nt*
Nov.7-Dec18th $1,000/wk Dec19-Jan3 $1,400/wk $200/nt Jan4-Mar26 $1,000/wk $160/nt*
March27-April9 $1,400/wk April 10-May 7 $1,600/wk $250/nt* May 8-June 18 $1,980/wk
June 19-Sept. 3 $2,500/wk
Pls. add $120 for final cleaning & $20/nt./extra person above std. 4 occup.
*Min 2-nt stay: pls.add $100. 10% off when reserving 1+ yr. in adv.
All prices incl. util.,linens & starter kit. Ref. Security Deposit $450.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Credit Cards Accepted:
Map & Owner's Profile
A True Lakefront Property Surrounded by Beautiful Gardens
Year Purchased: 2003
Why the Owner Chose Cremia
We believe that beautiful, natural landscapes bring tranquility to the human soul. Why else would people have visited Lake Como for over 2,000 years ! Our occupation has taken us all over the world, but the first morning we woke up on Lake Como, we knew it was a very special place. Endowed with the refined Italian lifestyle, it has so many treasures to offer the visitor, including grand villas open to the public, magnificient gardens, nearly all water sports including boating, extensive hiking trails leading to stupendous vistas, and great cuisine and shopping.
The Unique Benefits at this House-Independent on 3 Sides
Lake Como ends in our front yard, so it is not possible to get any closer to the water, whether you want to swim or boat there (we have a buoy 25 yards in front of the house), or whether you just want to enjoy the ever-changing climate and views of the lake, pre-Alps and Alps. At the same time, thanks to a new lakefront walking path, you can walk along the lake to the small hamlet of San Vito and enjoy a casual meal of pizza & pasta at Pizzeria Lumin, or a more indulgent meal at Restaurant La Baia, both right on the lake shore.
Family-owned and operated local pizzeria/trattoria directly on the lake front, serving pizza, antipasti and a variety of local pasta and fish dishes. Has fresh bread to takeaway in the morning. Also
Famous regional restaurant on the lake front, with a la fresca dining in spring/summer. Fine array of antipasti, primi piatti, secondi piatti e dolce (dessert). Extensive wine list. Reached by lakef
Brand new paved with granite stones, lit and landscaped lakefront walkway featuring lake and mountain vistas. Use this path to access San Vito, pizzeria and restaurant directly from the front yard of
Rent a Power Boat without a license (under 40 HP Yamaha/Yamarin) by the hour, half day, full day or week. Use our buoy right in front of the house. See their website at www.rentland.it.
Enjoy your morning cappucino and brioche with Piero at the best bar in Menaggio
The best restaurant in Menaggio, excellent wine selection and knowledge, outdoor tables/umbrellas in spring/summer.
An awesome locally run bakery. 15 minute walk from the house.
2 times per day in direction Colico (north) and 2 times per day direction Como (south).
Most famous Villa on Lake Como. Open to public for interior villa and exterior tours of extensive exotic gardens. Azaelas tend to peak in late April/early May. Includes an outdoor Lemon tree garden
Outstanding garden of unique specimen plants and trees, not to mention walls of azaelas in spring. Villa is NOT open to the public (still owned by the family).
Day pass is 25 Euros for use of all equipment, weight machines and professional treadmills. Facials, massages also available.
Gaze across the 2.4km stretch of lake for a view of the turrets and walls of this ancient castle (14th Century), still owned by a family in Milan.
Hike up here from Breglia, for the most magnificient view of the central lake area. Overnight accommodations available, and some basic hot meals.
Exactly 89km (53 miles)- or 1 hr 45m in. - from the house. Ski in the winter, or walk around this lake in front of the village during the summer.
Visit this small jewel, with its harbor and untouched lakeside ambience. You can visit it by public touring boat, or by walking from Pianello along a wonderful lakefront path.
One of the largest northern lakeside towns, Gravedona has a nice promenade, a large Villa Gallio, and smalls shops, restaurants and cafes. Very charming !
Reachable by public boat, this Abbey is of historic interest, including a shop.
Hike up here in 45 min. from Varenna ferry for a wonderful view of Bellagio and the central lake area. The castle has recently been restored and features a "birds of prey" program during good weather,
Owner's Map of Cremia
My wife Corina and I discovered Lake Como in the year 2000, and have been visiting the area every year, several times a year, since then. We've lived in Central & Eastern Europe since 1997 and have explored the area as much as we could. We insure that all of our guests benefit from our extensive knowledge of Lake Como and surroundings.
Property Photos
- Enjoy this spectacular view of the lake & Alps with your daily breakfast - Cremia, Lombardy, Italy Villa on Lake Como
- One of the only lakefront rentals - nothing compares to being right on the lake! - Cremia, Lombardy, Italy Villa on Lake Como
- Swim or Relax on the Teak Furniture and Watch the Ever-Changing Views - Cremia, Lombardy, Italy Villa on Lake Como
- Fully Equipped Kitchen w/bar stools (dining table separate), new ceramic cooktop
- Open the living room double glass doors to feel the unique Lake Como ambience
- Main bedroom, featuring scenic windows and access to the middle covered terrace
- Surround yourself in a luxurious garden & chill out on Top Terrace (center left)
- Sip your glass of wine from this Top Terrace or BBQ with breathtaking panoramas
Guest Comments (9)
First (9) of (9). View all comments
Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #42275
There have been 40748 visitors to this page since the counter was last reset in 2004.
This listing was first published here in 2004.
Date last modified - November 05, 2009
Positive Rating
At the beginning we were planning to visit Lake Como and stay in a hotel, however, we changed our minds when we found the Dreamers' House on the internet. What a wonderful house! I would personally like to thank you for all your help via email & all the useful information. It has been wonderful, we now know why you call it Dreamers House, we could have dreamed all day. A fantastic chill out zone'- June 3, 2005
Positive Rating
This house is gorgeous! We couldn't have asked for a better place to spend our week on Lake Como. We'll always remember the house's beautiful decor, views and comfort from the heat! We laid out in the sun, reading and then swam when it got too hot to handle. We toured the area from Como to Colico, visited an abbey, kayaked and drank by the lake from dawn til dusk. Heaven! We're off to Tuscany, but we will never forget the beautiful, magnificent & vibrant house on Lake Como' - June 25, 2005
Positive Rating
August 27 - Sept. 2, 2005 A wonderful 6 days - only a pity it could not be for longer. We were delighted with the Villa and had a very happy time here - we hope to return.
Positive Rating
We thoroughly enjoyed our stayed at your picturesque "Dreamers' Cottage." The view and atmosphere were relaxing and just right for our vacation. Bellagio was quaint & lovely and so was Varenna. We sat in countless cafes and drank delicious espresso's as we watched the world go by. We were enchanted by your lovely area and will always think of it as a special place. Best Wishes! June 18, 2005
Positive Rating
We had an absolutely idyllic week, for which we wholeheartedly thank you - we enjoyed great walking, the children swam happily in the lake, and - best of all - we sat on your terrace and enjoyed the spectacular views. Thank you for giving us a week full of lovely memories.
Positive Rating
Thank you very much. We had a fantastic time. The place and setting are just perfect.
Positive Rating
Excellent stay - no complaints! A perfect setting in an excellent accommodation. We highly recommend the "Barchetta" restaurant in Bellagio. We hope all future holidaymakers have as fabulous a time as we did during our short stay.
Positive Rating
We had five beautiful days on Lago di Como. The landscape, food and drink were all excellent.
Positive Rating
During our short stay, we felt like we were in our own home. The weather was always above 30 C, the water, the grounds around the villa, everything was more than we dreamed. The property has an easy Mediterranean flair, the water and the air too. We can recommend it to anybody.