We, family of five (three young children), really enjoyed our stay in Villa Iolanda due to its stunning interior and exterior appearance, tidyness and location.
Upon our arrival, we were greeted by the most kind owner Mauro on the public parking space and were then escorted to the house via a six minute walk on a donkey trail to the entrance of the house. In the meantime, Mauro helped us carrying our bags with an electric cart. Don't let the short walk scare you off, it is a comfortably hike along typical Italian houses and landscape with view on the lake.
The house and the views on the lake as shown on the pictures are even better in real life. It is difficult to capture the atmosphere and the coherence of all rooms, but the pictures sum it up quite well.
The house is well equipped and you will find all the materials you need to make a proper meal (both in the kitchen as well outside on the BBQ) and to have a comfortable stay.
In the near vicinity there is a lot to do: hiking (to San Dominica church up the hill), swimming (public beach in Cremia, 5 min walk), diner (La Baia), boat trip (from Menaggio to Bellagio or Varenna), caves, etc. But even sitting outside on the terrace or one of the balconies and watch the sailboats on the lake was something we did very often. And at night looking at all the lights across the lake. One time we even witnessed a fireworks display on the other side of the lake.
Bread can be bought every morning in a small supermarket up the hill (5 min walk), as well as other basic groceries. Larger supermarkets can be found when you search for Iperal, Conad, Carrefour or Bennet.
We only stayed for one week and then went on to Switzerland, but we wished we could stay one week longer.
One final word about Mauro: in 2,5 years he renovated the house by himself in a way you will rarely see again. The level of detail (both construction and decoration) is astonishing. Apart from this, he is also the best host you can imagine. He is open to every question you have and he will do its utmost best to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
We definitely hope to come back to Villa Iolanda and the Como lake again!