Vacation Rentals by Owner

A Wonderful, Authentic Experience in Varenna

Guest: Catherine P.
Date of Stay: 08/11/11 Review Submitted: 08/23/11

My sister and I stayed in the Valentina House for a week with three teenagers. Marilena was absolutely fantastic in helping us book the apartment and answering all my questions regarding Varenna. Camilla was extremely helpful in meeting us at the train station and taking us to and from the apartment. The apartment is perfectly located between the water and the town square in the historic part of Varenna. It does require walking up and down historic steps, but not too many. The teens spent a good deal of time on the balcony or at the cafes (especially Il Molo) on the water, giving them the freedom that they enjoyed. We were able to cook a couple of meals in the apartment, having purchased food at the grocery stores in the main square. The apartment is cozy, yet authentic. It is ideal for four people, but manageable for five. There is a pull-out cot in the main room. The location in Varenna is perfect for visiting other towns on Lake Como via the ferry or train. We also went to Lugano Switzerland, via the bus from Menaggio. We had a truly wonderful and authentic experience, thanks to the ideal location and helpful owners.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

VARENNA AT IT'S BEST

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/30/11 Review Submitted: 06/13/11

My daughter, her boyfriend and I spent a memorable week at Marilena's Rosy House in Varenna, and we were happy for the entire time. Marilena was there to greet us upon arrival, demonstrating the apartment and its facilities, and then even taking us on a short tour of the places in town center that we might be visiting. Her recommendations were accurate without fail. Marilena even volunteered to take us to the train station on our last morning. She is an energetic and delightful lady. Varennna is a beautiful little town on a beautiful lake, which is surrounded by beautiful mountains. For those looking for a quiet and relaxing getaway, in gorgeous surroundings, hosted by a very accommodating owner, you could not do better. BTW, we were fine without a car, as everything is within walking distance, or reachable by ferry.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Unforgetable Memories of Varenna

Guest: Laura (Cumming, Ga. USA)
Date of Stay: 05/28/11 Review Submitted: 05/30/11

We left Camilla's house this morning after just a couple of days. How we wish we could have stayed longer! Marinela is the perfect hostess. She sent us lots of information ahead of time, so we could plan and make the most of our limited stay in Varenna. The directions to the town, grocery store, gardens to visit, villas, ferry, restaurants and even boat rentals were provided by Marinela. She met us in the center of town and introduced us to what would be our "garage" for the duration of our stay. What a blessing it was to have a place to park without having to spend time looking for space. It was near all the shopping, restaurants and ferry. She told us the places to eat, shop and took us to Camila's House. It was exactly as the photos showed...actually better since the photos cannot do justice to the view of Bellagio and Menaggio from every panoramic window and room of the house. Imaculately clean with everything necessary to feel at home. The bed was comfortable, she even has extra pillows and linens if needed. The shower was strong, the water always hot. The kitchen was complete with everything necessary to make you feel like home, even a microwave, a full size refrigeratorfreezer, a diswasher and a washing machine. We brought our own laptop computer and she set us up to wireless internet. We had warm days and cool nights, perfect vacation thanks to Marilena and Camila's House. Highly recommended and wish we could stay longer. What a wonderful way to end our Italian Holidays.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Varenna - Home away from home.

Guest: Lake Travelers (Ohio's North Coast, USA)
Date of Stay: 05/14/11 Review Submitted: 05/27/11

You will not be disappointed. We spent a week in Marilena House in May, and would do it again in a New York minute. Marilena is very easy to work with and her property was exceptionally clean, well located and equipped with everything you may need for a comfortable stay in this charming village. The perfect spot to explore other Lake Como destinations by ferry. We also enjoyed day trips to Lugano and Bergamo by bus and train. There are plenty of restaurants and stores nearby. The walkway along the water is beautiful. Varenna felt like home.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Marilena House and Marilena

Guest: John (St Charles, IL USA)
Date of Stay: 11/01/10 Review Submitted: 11/20/10

My wife and I spent 4 wonderful days in early Nov. in Varenna at Marilena's - Marilena House. It is difficult to tell which was better - the home - and I do mean home like in your own home or the person. Both are very warm and wonderful. The location is in the center of the little city and convenient to everything - train, ferry or hiking. If you visit - you will want to go back.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

"Fairytale week on Lake Como"

Guest: Liz (Virginia, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/25/10 Review Submitted: 11/10/10

"As we arrived in cobblestone square in the charming little town of Varenna, Marilena was there to greet us and make us feel at home. We toured through the little alleyways to find lovely little restaurants and to learn about "our" private garage in town. Heading a short distance down the hill to the lake and ferry dock, one can choose from a selection of cobbled staircases, past wonderful old houses and a few shops. We felt as though we had stepped right into a fairytale. We then drove a mile or so south on the lake to "our" home away from home, where we found idyllic views of the lake, snow-capped mountains, and the back of Bellagio from every window, every couch, table and bed. Decorated in keeping with life in the Varenna area, the apartment is immaculately clean and beautifully equipped. Marilena has thought of everything: full kitchen, dishwasher, clothes washer, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, flat-screen TV . . . and everything in excellent working order. Each day we parked in "our" garage in Varenna and headed for the ferry landing to board a ferry, motor launch or hydrofoil for visits to other villages around the lake, where we wandered, shopped, enjoyed lunch, visited villas and soaked up the amazing atmosphere. Every afternoon we picked up fresh croissants for breakfast the next morning. Just a short drive takes you to the Swiss Alps . . .about one hour to St. Moritz. Or take a ferry across the lake to Menaggio and drive a short distance to Lugano. Spending an evening with Marilena was a highlight, as she gave us a tour of Varenna, sharing the history of the village's homes, gardens, restaurants, and waterfront. If you are looking for a lot of action and glitz, do not stay in Varenna. But if you are looking for natural beauty and want to see how real Italians live on the shores of Lake Como, I highly recommend Camilla House."

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A forever memorable week

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/09/10 Review Submitted: 12/24/10

My husband and I spent the most wonderful week in Varenna. And we were so thrilled to have stayed at Luna House. It was clean, cozy and added to our dreamy visit to the Lake Como area. It was so wonderful to have booked this apartment from afar and find everything as was described. Marilena and Anna were so helpful and accommodating. We enjoyed cooking our evening meals and drinking a glass of wine on the balcony. We hiked, took the ferry boats to all the little villages on the Lake, enjoyed the train rides, had fun food shopping at the local markets, and soaked up all the beautiful scenery. The week flew by and we were sorry to leave. What a forever memorable stay in Varenna!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Best stop in a month of traveling in Italy

Guest: Bill (Surprise, AZ)
Date of Stay: 10/02/10 Review Submitted: 11/09/10

Both the town of Varenna and Camilla House combined for the best week out of the month we spent in Italy. Don't overlook the free use of the garage in town because of the lack of parking in and around town. The town is charming and has a special ambience at night; it feels very comfortable and safe. The view across the lake from our apartment to Bellagio is beautiful as are the mountain ranges across the lake. There is nothing Marilena doesn't know about the area and she truly goes out of her way to insure a pleasant experience. The ferries easily connect you to Bellagio and other picturesque spots. The train service to Milan is excellent. When we go back to Varenna we will stay at Camilla House.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Best place to stay

Guest: voyageur du monde (the world)
Date of Stay: 07/24/10 Review Submitted: 08/08/10

i cannot say enough good things about this experience. Marilena is a fantastic hostess and we loved the flat. Location was the best in Varenna (we even enjoyed the church bells ringing during the day). The king size bed was comfortable and the bathroom and shower above the usual standard. Marilena was helpful in every way and we loved meeting Tartufina. We give this 10 stars and we will return!!

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Casa Mailena - home away from home

Guest: Woody and Linda (Lake Lure, NC USA)
Date of Stay: 07/03/10 Review Submitted: 08/05/10

My husband and I stayed in Marilena House for a week in July 2010 and had an absolutely wonderful time. Marilena had sent us a layout of the apartment and a sketch of Varenna, showing exactly where the house was in relation to the village square and the lake. It was just as she described, except for the washing machine she had never mentioned, which was a delightful surprise! The second-floor apartment overlooking the square was very comfortable, very clean and had more than ample room. Breakfast each morning in "our" kitchen with fresh croissants from the outdoor "bistro" in the square a few feet from our door was one of my favorite times of the day! The days were hot and, of course there are no air conditioners due to the emphasis on the conservation of electricity throughout Europe. But open windows and a soft breeze coming off the lake usually provided adequate air to be comfortable. We loved investigating all the nooks and crannies along the cobblestoned alleys as we wound our way down to the lakefront for a swim or a ferry ride to some of the other fabulous towns around the lake – Bellagio, Como, Bellano, Lecco – all different and all beautiful! And the restaurants were to die for! Our personal favorite was Il Cavatappi (the Corkscrew – there must have been 50 or so corkscrews, all different, on the walls), a small (5 tables of various sizes) and intimate spot that has the freshest and most delicious dinners you could ever imagine (you’ll probably need a reservation). Marilena was a wonderful help to us – translating when needed and always available to offer good advice and helpful tips. There is an amazing American woman named Melita who runs an art gallery across from Marilena House that exhibits the work of her husband, a renowned Italian painter named Paolo DeMaria. His work is remarkable and we shipped home one of his paintings of Varenna which now reminds us every day of our awesome time in this lovely part of Italy. I recommend Marilena House without reservation - we had a wonderful time there!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Awesome stay in Varenna

Guest: Todd (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
Date of Stay: 06/26/10 Review Submitted: 07/17/11

We stayed for almost a week at the Camilla House in Fiumelatte - just outside Varenna. Marilena met us in the center of town and showed us our private garage and then our wonderful apartment. It was perfect for us. The views are magnificent and I wish we could have stayed longer. Marilena was wonderful about giving us tips - where to eat and not to eat, the local fisherman from whom to buy, ferry information, etc. The apartment was perfect and had everything we needed. We often walked into town - not ideal for those who don't like to walk - or drive to our private garage. We loved staying in Varenna as the view is awesome from this side of the lake. We plan to go back and stay in Camilla House. Marilena provides excellent advice on where to get groceries, free wifi and a local cell phone! It just doesn't get any better than this.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Zich and Sue

Guest: Zich and Sue (Weymouth, Tasmania, Australia)
Date of Stay: 05/22/10 Review Submitted: 06/19/10

Varenna is a delightful little village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, with the lake on one side and mountains on the other. It is very conducive to walking- short walks up and down cobbled lanes with multi covered window boxes, to and from the lake edge; a very picturesque walk to and from the station whether via the main road or the lakeside walkway; half an hour to the nearest village where Eurpoe's shortest river roars out of the mountainside and tumbles into the lake, slightly longer if you take trhe wooded mountainside path; and longer walks up mountains to more lovely little villages or the next larger town. Express trains erun fro Milan and take just over and hour and goes on to the Swiss border. Ferries go up and down the lake to larger towns for more shopping and sight seeing including some fabulous villas and Como has a beautiful basillica and a fernicular railway. Varenna shops have superb local produce-wines, fresh pork, sausages, cheeses, dried mushrooms, pulses, pasta and fresh fruit. More mundane needs are suprisingly cheap in the supermarket in the next town, reached by car, bus or train. The sound is church bells and birdsong. There are 4 historic churches in the main square, each with priceless art works. Local artists provide watercolours, oils and ceramics. The ornithological museum has an amazing bird collection. Be aware that most businesses close from noon till 3pm, but open early and close late. Marilena house has everything you could possibly need including a balcony for wining and dining. Marilena is the ideal host- not intrusive, but if you need any information you only have to ask. A castle, a monastery, a monastery garden- what more could you ask. A week is not enough, stay a fortnight

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Don't miss out on this gem!

Guest: MOnopoly Man (Bordentown, New Jersey)
Date of Stay: 05/22/10 Review Submitted: 06/02/10

Just recently rented this apartment for one week in May and it was everything that the owner described! The photos are totally accurate and the interior of the apartment has everything brand-new in it! The owner also provided a notebook with lots of references in it for restaurants, etc., which was very helpful. The location of the apartment is perfect because you just walk down a little cobblestone walkway and you are at Lake Como, with restaurants and the promenade right there! I would definitely recommend staying here, NOT in Bellaggio, and using the ferry to visit the other towns. Varenna has just the right amount of little shops and restaurants and is very quiet. Marilena and Lidia were the perfect hostesses! I would go back in a second!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Jussi Peisa (Vantaa / Finland)
Date of Stay: 04/10/10 Review Submitted: 04/10/10

Lovely week 5.-12 of July in Rosy house! Marilena is very helpfully people. Good size apartment house to 2-3 person/ family. Varenna is very romantic small village in Como lake. You find very tastefully culinary experience from everywhere where you going to eat dinner. If you find lakepearch risotto from somewhere, must to taste that. Thank to Marilena for everything, we come back!!!Jussi & Janina from Finland

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Guest: Jan and John1 (Sydney, Australia)
Date of Stay: 03/04/10 Review Submitted: 03/03/10

We recently stayed at Marilena's house in the beautiful town of Varenna. Marilena was so helpful - picking us up from the station; driving us to the supermarket; lending us a mobile phone because ours was not working; taking us back to the station at the end of our stay and generally giving us lots of helpful advice. The apartment was delightful and very well equipped and beautifully and comfortably furnished. One drawback for us (coming from sunny Australia) was that being winter, many restaurants, bars and attractions were closed at this time which we had not realised. However I would thoroughly recommend Marilena's House to anyone - and Varenna and the Lake itself are just so beautiful - an absolutely stunning place to visit at any time of the year.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 02/13/10 Review Submitted: 02/13/10

great location, host very helpful, everything you need in the flat, we have been twice in the past 6 months & will go again.

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Guest: Mari Shine (Concord, CA)
Date of Stay: 12/07/09 Review Submitted: 12/07/09

Just wanted to say hello to Marilena after a few years. Glad to see you're still going strong and making visitors to Varenna very happy. I will never forget you and the lake. Mari and "Miss Universe"

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Guest: Sarah and Ross (Montecastello di Vibio (PG) Italy)
Date of Stay: 11/11/09 Review Submitted: 11/11/09

we enjoyed our one week stay in camilla house very much. beautifully equipped with everything that marilena had thought that one might/could need. marilena is a wonderful hostess, and any needs are rapidly addressed. the apartment is spacious, clean, friendly, secure, with pleasant paths into the town or down to the beach. easy parking beside the apartment, and option to use parking garage in the town of varenna 5 minutes drive away. a perfect place from which to explore lake como, and a charming apartment to use as a base. we shall certainly return. thank you marilena

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Guest: Jim Carisch (Colorado, U.S.A.)
Date of Stay: 09/28/09 Review Submitted: 09/28/09

We just completed our stay in Varenna with Marilena (six of us stayed at Marilean House, Lidia House and Luna House apartments)and the gang wishes to thank Marilena for a great stay. She took us shopping in the next town and helped us with suggested day trips to take from Varenna. A few of our party had never been to Italy and were very impressed with Varenna. It was my fourth stay in Varenna and will return again and stay with Marilena in one of her apartments. Once again thank you Marilena for a wonderful stay in Varenna.

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Guest: Lucy B. (Roseburg Or)
Date of Stay: 08/29/09 Review Submitted: 08/29/09

We had a great time at Camilla House,perfect equipped , ocean lakeviews and unvaluable parking close to the harbor.

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Guest: David & Susan Portesi (Moorpark, CA USA)
Date of Stay: 08/20/09 Review Submitted: 08/20/09

We were so blessed to have been able to stay in Angelina's house. We have just returned from our visit and miss Angelina, Marilena and the charming town of Varenna tremendously. Marilena went above & beyond to ensure we had the most glorious vacation one could ask for. Marilena invested so much time helping us with our itinerary. She did all of this because it is quite obvious that she truly cares about her clients. When all of her rooms were already booked, she offered us a room with Angelina. We had no idea that we would be able to stay in such a gorgeous home. The room is filled with splendid antiques and charm. We enjoyed eating fresh cheese, wine, meat & bread from the local Salumeria while being spoiled with a lake view on the balcony. The best part of the vacation though was not the stunning view, delightful town of Varenna, comfortable bed, spacious bath, lovely restaurants, or historic sights-it was the beautiful Angelina & Marilena that made our vacation. We HIGHLY RECOMMEND staying here. This was indeed the highlight of our trip to Italy. We will definitely be returning and already informed Marilena that we will call her before we even book the flight to make sure we can stay with Angelina. Trust Marilena to take care of you. She has the utmost professionalism, generosity and expertise to help you with your arrangements. We cannot thank Marilena & Angelina enough for making our holiday simply THE BEST! God bless Marilena & Angelina. See you soon. (We have enrolled in Italian courses so we can practice speaking on our next visit) Grazie mille, David & Susan P.S. We took a cooking class with Chef Moreno at Il Caminetto and it was remarkable. If at all possible try and fit this into your trip-you will not be disappointed. Ah, yes and the romantic dinner at La Vista was unforgettable-in every way. We love Marilena, Angelina and their entire family! :) :) :)

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Guest: Mary & Mike Sudzina (Charleston, SC)
Date of Stay: 08/16/09 Review Submitted: 08/16/09

Comment Text: Our family just spent a magical week in two of Marilena's apartments in the center of charming Varenna - Marilena House and Rosy House. We loved the town, our location, and Marilena! Our two daughters, son-in-law and grandbaby joined us and Marilena had everything ready for us and the baby when we arrived. We frequented the local shops and cafes, cooked together, explored the town castle and gardens, and swam at the lido. For our 39th wedding anniversary we had a fabulous meal at Quatro Pass. Marilena even took me to the local fish market where I bought pink lake trout - so good! It was a memorable family vacation. Thank you Marilena!

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Guest: Karen127 (Henlow, UK)
Date of Stay: 06/22/09 Review Submitted: 06/22/09

What a beautiful place, stunning views of the lake & staying in Fiumelatte gives you views of Varenna too! It felt like real Italy, so much better than a bland hotel. Take away the trains & it would be utterly perfect, as they are noisy, but we'd happily go back again! Marilena couldn't have been more helpful, she was lovely.

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Guest: Anna42 (-)
Date of Stay: 06/07/09 Review Submitted: 06/07/09

Marilena is such an accomodating owner and helped us out whenever we needed her. Definitely a memorable trip. We loved the Camilla house!

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Guest: Lesley Jenike (Columbus, OH USA)
Date of Stay: 06/07/09 Review Submitted: 06/07/09

I came to Italy for a research project and I wanted to be on the lake, but I also needed easy access to the train. Marilena was kind enough to take my husband and myself to and from Varenna whenever we needed to shop, have dinner, or catch the train, so those who haven't rented a car shouldn't hesitate in considering Camilla House for their stay. Camilla House was gorgeous (what views!) and provided every comfort. I can't wait to get back to Varenna and when I do, I will definitely call Marilena again! Highly recommended!

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Guest: MikeS1 (San Francisco Area)
Date of Stay: 06/06/09 Review Submitted: 06/05/09

A great four days in Varenna at Rosy House thanks to Marilena, who is friendly, organized and unobtrusive. This little flat is perfect for a couple: neat, large BR, well laid out and appointed. It's nicely located close to the central square and just off Via XX Settembre, steps from a few really good ristoranti, and just up a steep Salita from the public part of the waterfront. A real find!

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Guest: Alexandru Dumitrache (Bucharest, Romania)
Date of Stay: 05/08/09 Review Submitted: 05/08/09

My girlfriend and I spent a beautiful week in Camilla apartment. The apartment was very well equipped, with everything you might need, beautifully decorated and extremely comfortable. The apartment has windows that go down to the floor through which you see directly the lake and no matter the time of the day the view is breathtaking. The location is good, especially if you have a car, and if you want to explore the surrounding areas. Marilena is extremely nice, she was very helpful, and answered without delay to any question. This was the loveliest vacation we have ever had and we will definitely come back.

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Guest: Montana013 (Montana, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/26/09 Review Submitted: 04/26/09

My husband and I stayed at "Marilena House " for a month this spring. Marilena is an excellent host and very concerned that everything is in order. The apartment was well furnished. The beds were very comfortable and the bathroom new and very good. Everything you could ever need was in the kitchen, with a little balcony overlooking the street below. Two minutes away on the square are two small food stores and it is fun to shop in these little places. The salumeria has wonderful local cheese and sausage. The green grocer has fresh produce and everyday things. Both have good wine and beer selections. The church, good cafes and pizzerias are right there, too. The ferries are a 10 minute walk. The train is a 20 minute walk. Varenna is a charming village with good restaurants and beautiful vistas everywhere. Marilena's apartments are definitely one of the best choices in town. We also stayed at "Camilla House" for a few days and the lake views are wonderful.

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Guest: Vanessa14 (Perth Western Australia)
Date of Stay: 04/21/09 Review Submitted: 04/20/09

We arrived in Varenna in mid April and spent a glorious 3 days in apartment Rosy. The apartment was roomy and very welcoming with all the comforts of your own home with a beautiful Italian feel. Thanks Marilena for making us feel so welcome to one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

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Guest: Kay + friends (Denmark)
Date of Stay: 03/16/09 Review Submitted: 03/15/09

We are four people who have spent an excellent nice holiday at the Camilla house in March 2009. The lake view from all the windows is just marvellous. And we have never lived in a holiday house so well equipped and perfect before. Nothing is missing and you have the feeling of living in a private italian home. Many thanks to Marilena for all her information about the area - and specially her advice about extremely cheap shopping at the supermercato in Bellano.

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Guest: Spring flyfamily (London)
Date of Stay: 03/09/09 Review Submitted: 03/09/09

We enjoyed our week early october at Camilla cottage,wonderful lakeviews,the apartment even had more than my own,I appreciated the use of the garage in the harbour,find a parking in the center is really an olimpic game.We found Varenna the best town to explore the Lake Como area.

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Guest: Leyla20 (Cardiff)
Date of Stay: 02/22/09 Review Submitted: 02/22/09

We had a lovely stay,the lake views from our beds are the best we never had in our life ,the atmosphere in Camilla is romantic and the apartment so cozy,nothing is missing,we will never forget we have been so happy here and can't wait to come again, we thank you for your hospitality and we recommend to our friends.

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Guest: shellman (Chicago, USA)
Date of Stay: 12/11/08 Review Submitted: 12/10/08

Just a note to report that we had a great time in Varenna staying at Lidia's and Marilena House,we were 2 couples and decided to book 2 same apartments close eachother. Very clean and centrally located. A quick walk to the water and the ferry. A real nice change from small Italian hotel rooms. We called Marilena when we arrived at the train station.She showed us the apartments and whatever we could need. Very professional ,we highly recommend.

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Guest: Nancy and Norm Chapman (Saunderstown, RI 02874)
Date of Stay: 10/29/08 Review Submitted: 10/29/08

Ciao Marilena, We are home now, but think of you and our wonderful vacation on Lake Como. We had the feeling of deep contentment. I keep trying to remember the details of the beautiful walk from Camilla House to Varenna.I fell in love with the pathway and was able to make sketches and write, think....so quiet. Thank you for all your kindness and the rides you were so willing to give as we needed them.....train, grocery store. Good memories and we have every intention of coming back. best wished, Nancy and Norm

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Guest: trekking (York, PA, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/20/08 Review Submitted: 10/20/08

We vacationed at Marilena House in Varenna and had a wonderful time. Marilena met us at the train station which helped with luggage and gave us a tour of Varenna. The apartment is in the square and accessible to everything. It has a large bedroom with a king bed, clean bathroom, living room, fully equipped kitchen and balcony. Marilena's house has everything a travelor would need. Marilena was a wonderful help when we needed any reservations or questions. When we checked out, Marilena allowed us to keep our luggage in the bottom floor of the house until our train left. I will highly recommend Marilena's house to anyone. If we return, we plan on renting from Marilena again. We are more than pleased and feel we developed a relationship and have a friend in Varenna. Thank you Marilena!!

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/21/08 Review Submitted: 09/21/08

We have just returned from a wonderful stay in Varenna in Marilena's apartment. Marilena is 'molto simpatico' a delightful and vivacious lady, always extremely helpful during our 8-day stay. (Tartufina the cat is very beautiful too!)The apartment is very centrally situated in the exquisite village of Varenna - very pretty and tranquil.Ideally situated for us as it was near the railway station and centrally placed for all the many enjoyable boat trips around stunning Lake Como. Varenna has plenty of lovely places to eat but the highlight for us was eating at the wonderful Villa Cipressi - a romantic villa on the lake with delicious food and a truly memorable evening. We took trips on all the various boats round the lake as well as taking a trip by train to Bergamo where the historic old town is perched on a hill. It was always welcoming to return to Varenna each evening as it is a very homely place and it was so quaint, beautiful, and had very friendly people. We recommend renting from Marilena and staying in Varenna. Would love to return. Grazie mille Marilena e ciao! Roma and Chris.

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Guest: Guitar player (Sevenoaks, Kent, UK)
Date of Stay: 09/13/08 Review Submitted: 09/13/08

We had a superb holiday in Marilena's apartment at the end of August. Marilena is a wonderfully warm character who thoroughly enjoys looking after her guests. The apartment was well equipped and spotlessly clean. We loved Varenna and surrounding area and will definitely return without any doubt.Thanks Marilena!! Warm regards, Christine & Miles (guitar player!)

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Guest: Sue, Nigel & family (UK)
Date of Stay: 09/12/08 Review Submitted: 09/12/08

We stayed at Camilla House in August and thoroughly enjoyed the visit. The views of the lake from the apartment are breathtaking and the accommodation was well equiped, comfortable and spotlessly clean. Verenna is beautiful and makes a good base for exploring the lake by ferry.

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Guest: Sandy Gale (Santa Cruz, California)
Date of Stay: 08/30/08 Review Submitted: 08/30/08

We stayed in Marilena's house for one wonderful week in June 2008. Marilena picked us up at the train station and when our week was up, she brought us back. The apartment was perfect and Marilena was warm and welcoming. The apartment had all the conveniences we needed. Small restaurants and stores are just steps away as is the Lake. When we return to Lake Como, we will again stay at Marilena's.

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Guest: Mark Kennedy (Carlow, Ireland)
Date of Stay: 08/12/08 Review Submitted: 08/11/08

My Fiancee and I contacted Marilena through her website last Easter. We had the daunting task of finding accommodation for 50 people for our wedding in Varenna July 2008. Even though her own apartment was already booked for our requested dates Marilena spent her own time to put us in contact with some of her friends who also had apartments. We booked these on her advice and they turned out to be perfect for our guests! I cannot thank her enough for her help. I would defiantly recommend Marilena, the world needs more people like her. Mark Kennedy, Carlow, Ireland.

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Guest: Dorothy Brown1 (Sidney Australia)
Date of Stay: 08/11/08 Review Submitted: 08/11/08

We planned early january to rent 3 apartments for one week in july for a wedding.Marilena house windows open to the church and this is the reason of our first choice.All the other accomodations offer more than we could imagine.We very higly recommend Marilena and her friends apartments.

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Guest: Jane 2 (Bristol)
Date of Stay: 08/08/08 Review Submitted: 08/07/08

We have just returned from 1o days in Varenna, staying at the Luna apartment. It was a fantastic holiday and the apartment was perfect for us. We travelled with a 3 year old, and the apartment was located close to a small beach which was great for swimming. We loved the location as we could easily catch the ferries and train. We would definitely return, and loved it in Varenna. The apartment was spotless and had all the facilities that you need, it had an oven, microwave, and fantastic shower.

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Guest: Barbara Armento (Boynton Beach, Florida)
Date of Stay: 07/15/08 Review Submitted: 07/14/08

Our group of 5 was fortunate to book Camilla House with its fantastic views from each large window. The accomodations were fine, & Marilena was a SUPER hostess! She picked us up promptly, zipped us to the ferry, the plaza, the restaurant...& she seems to know everyone in the historic town. It was the perfect place to celebrate my 80th birthday with my daughters.

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Guest: Susan Schnee (Colorado Springs, CO)
Date of Stay: 07/08/08 Review Submitted: 07/08/08

Marilena was so helpful with everything, providing transportation, making recommendations, providing a cell phone to contact her. The house is well stocked and we loved the fabulous views from Camilla House. Lake Como swimming was superb, so close and convenient. We'd love to return!

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Guest: Jann Lardo (Bloomfield Hills, Michigan)
Date of Stay: 07/06/08 Review Submitted: 07/06/08

Our group of five just enjoyed four nights in Camilla House. Thank you Marilena for driving us everywhere. You let us use your laptop, loaned us jackets and umbrellas when it rained, lent us your cellphone, told us how to get to the beach in five minutes, booked restaurants and explained everything to us. We plan to return.

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Guest: Diane Cross (Archway United kingdom)
Date of Stay: 06/06/08 Review Submitted: 06/06/08

I spent 1 week in Camilla House with my family of 5, the apartment offers more than i expected for a big family, there is everything or more,the lakeview is gorgeous and the use of the central garage is of big value as parking in the center of Varenna is a "mission impossible".Wr appreciated also walking to Varenna on the paths which leads to the Eremo and the Monastero gardens .We recommend Camilla house to anyone.

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Guest: Louise & Ritchie (Fife, Scotland)
Date of Stay: 06/05/08 Review Submitted: 06/05/08

We stayed at the Luna House in May 2008. It was ideal for us - spotlessly clean, everything provided and very comforable. We wouldn't hesitate to book with Marilena again. The location is ideal for exploring Varenna, in the centre (but not noisy) and walking distance to restaurants and most places of interest. Having visited the area a few times before, we found Varenna itself is a very good base for exploring Lake Como. It is handy for train travel, meaning you don't need to hire a car if travelling up from Milano or Bergamo. Perfect for boat travel too, whether cruises or the ferry to Bellagio/ Menaggio. A happy holiday in a beautiful location!

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Guest: Wayne & Jim (Washington, DC)
Date of Stay: 05/31/08 Review Submitted: 05/31/08

We have recently returned from our stay in Varenna at Marilena's and everything was absolutely perfect. Marilena graciously picked us up at the train station when we arrived and brought us back on our departure. The apartment is located near the town's beautiful church and a very short walk down to the lake's edge and to cafes. The walk along the lake to the ferry is beautiful and a wonderful way to begin and end the day. It's quite a hike up to the castle, but absolutely worth it for the views of Lake Como. We will DEFINITELY be returning to Lake Como and hope that we are able to, once again, stay in one of Marilena's places in Varenna. Thanks, Marilena, for your outstanding hospitality.

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Guest: Dianne and Gary (Flora, MS)
Date of Stay: 05/30/08 Review Submitted: 05/30/08

Camilla House was the best place of all the wonderful places we stayed on our 6-week trip, and Marilena is the best hostess we've ever had anywhere! It would take a book to describe all our wonderful experiences, but one thing alone is worth staying there: that incredible view of Lake Como that we saw every morning and every night out those big windows - we couldn't believe we were so fortunate to have found it. Marilena, Grazie mille, a thousand thanks!!!

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Guest: Jerry and Helen Pendergrass (Beaufort, South Carolina)
Date of Stay: 05/26/08 Review Submitted: 05/26/08

We have only just arrived home, and could not wait to add our praise for the wonderful stay at Camilla House in April. Marilena is WONDERFUL!! Beautiful weather and view of the lake was stunning. Marilena arranged for us to be picked up on our last night and taken to Crotto de Pino Restaurant for an unforgettable meal. She also got out of bed early on Saturday morning to pick us up and take us to catch our train to Florence. She is terrific!!! We plan to come again and stay longer! Ciao Marilena and Tartufina

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