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Exclusive 17th C Villa on the Island of San Giulio with boat and mainland garage

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Villa Monziani, 17th C lakeside villa on island with boat, mainland garage. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
The magical island of San Giulio, the gem in Lake Orta's crown. Accessible by private & public boat
Sunny side of the lakeside garden, ideal for sunbathing, eating and swimming.
Overview
Reviews
Amenities
Availability
Map
Policies
Overview
5 bedrooms
4 bathrooms
10 guests
7 nights minimum
Villa
Villa Monziani is a 17th C Villa that sleeps 10 (5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms) on San Giulio island, Lake Orta, Northern Italy. A registered holiday home, one of the oldest houses on San Giulio Island, lakeside, at water level, with full view of the lake, On the ground floor there is the garden, which stretches the length of the house (1/3 in the shade of the bower and 2/3 in the sun), the kitchen and a small lounge, which both open onto the garden, and a bathroom. There is a new bedroom with ensuite bathroom. The boathouse is adjacent to the garden and has an outdoor hot shower. On the first floor there is a very large lounge with a fireplace and a 2nd master bedroom. The balcony on the first floor runs the length of the house and an outdoor stone staircase leads to the garden below. On the m...Villa Monziani is a 17th C Villa that sleeps 10 (5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms) on San Giulio island, Lake Orta, Northern Italy. A registered holiday home, one of the oldest houses on San Giulio Island, lakeside, at water level, with full view of the lake, On the ground floor there is the garden, which stretches the length of the house (1/3 in the shade of the bower and 2/3 in the sun), the kitchen and a small lounge, which both open onto the garden, and a bathroom. There is a new bedroom with ensuite bathroom. The boathouse is adjacent to the garden and has an outdoor hot shower. On the first floor there is a very large lounge with a fireplace and a 2nd master bedroom. The balcony on the first floor runs the length of the house and an outdoor stone staircase leads to the garden below. On the mezzanine there is the 3rd bedroom with twin beds and an en-suite bathroom. On the second floor there is the 4th bedroom with en-suite bathroom and a small lounge area. Also on the second floor there is the 5th bedroom, a studio with a divan bed and a spectacular view of the lake. The house has been completely refurbished and modernised bearing in mind its past history, respecting its original plan. The ceilings are all original and designer furniture and illumination enhances the traditional settings, giving a sense of discrete luxury and homeliness. The garden is manicured and from the garden wall you can dive into the water, whose cleanliness is certified, or enter walking through the boat house. A very magical atmosphere surrounds this island. The green hills of the pre-alpine lake and the small villages dotted on its shore give a feeling of tranquility. Orta's very attractive 18th century houses, make a colourful backdrop to its square, which is like a parlour with cafés, benches under shady trees, arches hiding shops and the full view of the fascinating island of San Giulio. A stunning view of the lake, of the town of Pella and of the Madonna del Sasso Church can be had from the Sacro Monte Franciscan Church above Orta. It is fascinating to stroll in Orta's narrow, cobbled streets and admire the Baroque houses that line them. To reach the island (a mere 400m) guests can use our boat or the public taxi boats. We meet our guests in Orta, show them the location of the garage, take them across to the island in our boat, show them the house, answer their questions and leave. We return the day of their departure. Prices for the property include use of private motorboat ('canadian' 8HP outboard engine - no license required), private boathouse next to island villa, mainland locked garage with badge entrance. We have 2nd larger 40HP boat/8 seater and a 2nd covered space in same parking garage, both for an extra fee. Extra: €120.00 for cleaning. We do not rent rooms separately. Please inquire for further information. If less days are required please ask, perhaps can help. A small apartment on the top floor belongs to my cousins. They are completely independent. They use the back entrance to the house and the central staircase to get to their flat. As for us, the house is their second home, so they might be or might not be there. They are very nice people to get on with and do not intrude. They can share 1/6th of the garden. Recently the Town Council of Orta require that holiday homes are required to pay a guest residency fee €0.5 pp per day (excluded up to 10 year olds). More
House Rules
Pets Allowed: Yes
Smoking Allowed: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
We have a septic tank so please do not put solid waste down the toilets but use baskets, we supply ecological soap/powders ecc. Make sure you do too. Any damage to the boat or the engine, caused by your mismanagement, must be paid for on receiving bill from our boat-yard company Cusionautica. Any damage to furniture, light fixtures ecc. must be compensated. We do not charge for breakage of crockery and glasswear but please inform us.
Bathrooms
1 Full bath, 3 Showers
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Meet the host
Andrew George B
Hosting since January 2015
Languages spoken: English, French, Italian
Response Time: Within a few hours
Interaction with guests: We meet at Orta, in the main square Piazza Motta, in front of the docks. I'll help you unload and take you to our private mainland garage nearby. I'll then take you across with our private boat, show you how to use it and welcome you to the house. I return to Milan during your stay, but will always be available by phone. I can arrange local help if necessary. I return for your departure. If you have a very early morning departure we will organise a house key/garage key drop-off at one of the bars at Orta. Recently the Prefecture of Novara require that holiday homes have to mandatory register passport details with 24 hours of all guests via registered email. We do this for you but please send me details in advance.
Contribute
Reviews (9)
Filippo Bragadin
Filippo Bragadin
Fano, Italy1 contribution
compleanno sul lago
festa di compleanno più sfarzosa della mia vita il top senza compromessi nessun luogo può essere cosi esclusivo ed eccentrico e sfarzoso!!!
Visited July 2018
Written 11 May 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

MichaelFlondob
MichaelFlondob
London, United Kingdom1 contribution
A phenomenal holiday
Just what me and my friends were looking for, a great place for a relaxing and peaceful time. The location is superb, the villa very elegant and comfortable, very clean and extremely well taken care of. Our host Andrew was kind and helpful and made us feel at home. His welcoming package with local wine and cheeses, cold-cuts and hand-made jam from the grapevine made for a perfect arrival. The water was warm and we swam often, even in the evenings, and we used the boat to tour the lake. The local restaurants and wine bars were good and well priced, so much so we hardly ate at home, but did make use of his bbq in the garden. His cousins from Rome were there but we hardly ever saw them. It’s a magical place and we look forward to returning.
Visited September 2017
Written 8 May 2018. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Camper721604
Camper721604
Thank you very much, so glad you enjoyed it, appreciate you taking good care of the house and the boat. So happy you want to become many of our return guests. Look forward to seeing you soon, like I said "we haven't been going anywhere since 1637!" All the best Andrew
Written 10 May 2018. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

GlobeTrotting552843
GlobeTrotting552843
1 contribution
Amazing Villa and Great Host
We can't believe it was real. The kids jumped into the water every day while we read our books in the garden. The villa is amazing, the lake is beautiful, the town across the way is enchanting. We spent the month traveling across Europe and all six of us agree this was our favorite place and time spent. Thanks so much for sharing this piece of heaven.
Visited July 2017
Written 31 July 2017. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

libbygabby
libbygabby
11 contributions
Heaven on earth
I'm loathe to write a review because I don't want too many people coming here. No wifi, no tv, intermittent phone signal - our days consisted of watching the aerial acrobatics of the swallows morning & evening, and feeding the fish and ducks during the day. It was the most blissful switch off.
Visited August 2016
Written 26 August 2016. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

IestynapG
IestynapG
London, United Kingdom57 contributions
Delightfully relaxing
What could be more fun - an island, a lovely garden so you can throw yourself into the lake or just sit sunbathe and read, a lovely historic home and a lovely Italian village 400 m away on your little boat. Perfect
Visited July 2016 Travelled with family
Written 5 August 2016. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

jimkenyon
jimkenyon
Evesham, United Kingdom40 contributions
An enchanted place
No words can express how beautiful and magical it is to stay in this ancient house on the island of San Giulio. We enjoyed everything. The owners welcomed us with great hospitality and showed us around. The house has everything you could possibly need and is furnished in a pleasant antique style - you must make some allowances for the extreme age of the building, for example, steep stairs. We made some wonderful trips out including motoring around Lake Orta itself in the boat which comes with the house; visiting Lake Maggiore and its islands and making a mammoth trip into Switzerland (by boat, car, train, funicular railway, cable car and chair lift). The lovely little town of Orta makes for a delightful interlude with its cobbled streets, mediaeval buildings and precious faded frescoes. We were also lucky enough to be able to take in a concert in the basilica on the island. Would you believe that many 'day trippers' come across on the boat and don't even look at this church. It is certainly well worth visiting. The terrace by the lake is a good place for a few glasses of wine and nibbles or for a barbecue. Sitting out there enjoying such a beautiful view you can think you've died and gone to heaven! Every day we swam in the lake. The water is glassy clear and clean and you can see hundreds of fish. In August it was really warm. Athletic people can jump off the wall into the water - be sure to jump well out though - and others can walk in from the boathouse area. When you visit take the boat out around the island for some photos. The little pathway on the island is also a pleasure, especially after all the other visitors have gone away. In one direction it is the 'Path of Silence' and in the other direction becomes the 'Path of Contemplation'! We enjoyed a couple of meals at the restaurant on the island. It's particularly worth visiting on Sunday after the church service is over and it's packed with locals. Restaurant Venus just opposite the island is also very good and nothing is too much trouble for the staff. There are some pretty good Ice Cream parlours too. August was hot and quite humid and there were one or two storms - quite spectacular to watch from the house as the thunder rumbled around the mountains and the forked and sheet lightning lit up the sky. Bear this in mind though and maybe take an umbrella just in case. If you go and stay here you are sure to be enchanted.
Visited August 2015 Travelled as a couple
Written 18 November 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Vacation399671
Vacation399671
Too kind, thank you so much!
Written 24 November 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Sofia Stella
Sofia Stella
Lugano, Switzerland3 contributions
What an amazing and lovely place to stay!
I have been in this villa twice in my life. First time for curiosity, second time because I missed it too much! Lovely, romantic, silent. Time flows on a very italian style while you are in there. Private dock, all comforts, elegant italian furnitures, great hospitality by the owner makes you feel "at home". Surroundings are amazing. The island itself is small and need no transportation to be explored. On the other hand Orta Town is a miracle of beauty nestled on solid ground. Experience to try at least once in a lifetime, but I warn you: causes immediate addiction :)))
Visited October 2013 Travelled with friends
Written 15 February 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Vacation399671
Vacation399671
Thank you very much, it's always a pleasure to have you. We are graced in having the Sacro Monte's many small chapels with wooden sculptures, situated on top of the hill above Orta overlooking the island, become a UNESCO heritage site. Closer to home, the singing of the nuns at Sunday mass in the Basilica of the island is another very special experience and one not to be missed. Look forward to having you again.
Written 18 February 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Haydeh B
Haydeh B
2 contributions
week end in san giulio
a brilliant experience in an amazing place... lovely structure in the middle of the Aorta'lake.....really to try once in a life!!! unforgettable
Visited June 2014
Written 8 February 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Vacation399671
Vacation399671
Thank you very much. Isola San Giulio is unique in that it's the only island on lake Orta (and one of the few in all considering the other Italian lakes) and our house at the moment is the only one being rented, ensuring you a unique sensation in terms of history, tradition, location and comfort. As you rightly say, an experience to be tried at least once! You're welcome back anytime.
Written 10 February 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Cristina F
Cristina F
Milan, Italy1 contribution
Spring is in the air
We had a lovely easter holiday with our friends enjoing late breackfasts in the garden in the spring morning sun. The best moments were talking in the beautiful and suggestive lounge in front of the big fire in the evening and going for a walk round the circular island path when you realise that you are all alone, no other tourists as the public boats stop at 7pm, and you feel in another epoch, with the ninety nuns who look over you, sublimely mistical. Thanks to our English owners, you were very kind.
Visited April 2014
Written 8 February 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Vacation399671
Vacation399671
Thank you very much, it is in fact a very special moment when in the early evening most of the activity of the boats stops and suddenly the lake becomes extremely quite and peaceful and the birds, especially the swallows - some of whom nest in the roof of the house, they are considered good luck and have always been with us - swarm over the island playing in the air. Many of our birds are tagged by bird-watching associations. We always listen to the swoosh they make when they dive-bomb home!
Written 10 February 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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What this rental offers
  • Balcony
  • Grill
  • Boat Available
  • Ceiling Fans
  • Central Heating
  • Dishwasher
  • Dryer
  • Fireplace
  • Freezer
  • Refrigerator
  • Garage
  • Highchair
  • Internet Access
  • Iron
  • Kettle
  • Linens Provided
  • Microwave
  • Mountain Views
  • Private Garden
  • Sauna
  • Secure Parking
  • Stereo System
  • Cooker
  • Terrace
  • Toaster
  • Towels Provided
  • Washer
  • Wi-Fi
  • Fishing Nearby
  • There Is A Golf Course Within 30 Mins Drive
  • Horse Riding Nearby
  • There Are Tennis Courts Nearby
  • Watersports Nearby
  • Beach Or Lakeside Relaxation
  • Hiking Trips
  • Rural/Countryside Retreats
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Map
About the neighbourhood
One day excursions:Drive via Omegna to Stresa and visit the 3 islands. Drive North to Verbania, Cannero e Cannobbio and return home via Omegna. In Stresa you an get the lift to Mottarone and back. Drive to Como and after having visited its centre, drive along the left shore of the Lake to Cadenabbia and take the boat to Bellagio. Cross back to Cadenabbia and return to Orta. Drive to Omegna, Gravellona Toce, Ornavasso, Piedimulera. Macugnaga e Pecetto. Walk around, it's beautiful, Take either lift to the base of the Glacier of Monte Rosa or to the opposite Monte Moro and walk to Rifugio Oberto where there is a further away but larger view of the glacier in its magnificence.
Getting around
You can tour the lake by using our private boat or by taking the large public boat that everyday visits all the local lakeside towns on all the lake including Omegna, the main town. To visit onland locations its recommended you use your car or hire car. Otherwise you can hire a taxi minicab/bus locally - there are 3 local companies that have good prices. For example Malpensa Airport/Orta is around €80. There are also local buses and a train station at Orta Miasino.
Access
Car advised
How to get there
We meet in the main square of Orta which you can reach by car, where there are the main docks (instructions will be given) so you can unload your luggage. We then drive the car to the garage, which is 400m away and park the car. We then cross to the island by private boat or public transport. Whether you arrive with your own car/s, a rental or a taxi, you can access directly the main square of Orta San Giulio, Piazza Motta, (inside the ZTL, Traffic Limited Zone), parking on the left entering the piazza, where you can unload your luggage directly in front of the wharf where our boat (& the taxi boats) are moored. Access is permitted only from 7am to 10am, 2pm to 4pm and from 6pm to 8pm. Parking in the square is limited to 30m. We meet our guests in Piazza Motta, help unload, park their car in our garage, drive back with ours and then accompany them across the 400m stretch of water to the island either in our boat or (depending on luggage &/weather conditions) or with the public transport taxi boats. Please try and arrive ideally around 3pm. To drive directly to Piazza Motta, after the Orta roundabout, turn the first left past Villa Crespi and go down Via Fava coasting the lake. Near the end, in Via Giovanetti, the road gets quite narrow, but don’t worry, all cars pass. Please follow the map and not Google otherwise you’ll end up in the cemetery above Orta. If arriving at a time that does not permit access to Piazza Motta, at the Orta roundabaout drive straight along Via Panoramica, go past our garage on the left, till you arrive in a parking area that is a dead-end. Next to the bus stop, Temporary Parking spaces are available for unloading (30m). Piazza Motta is 50m away down a stone footpath.
Activities nearby
Fishing NearbyThere Is A Golf Course Within 30 Mins DriveHorse Riding NearbyThere Are Tennis Courts NearbyWatersports Nearby
Cancellation Policy
  • 100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
  • 50% refund* if you cancel at least 8 weeks before check-in
  • 25% refund* if you cancel at least 4 weeks before check-in
  • No refund available if you cancel thereafter

Enter your trip dates to see an exact cancellation policy.

*Booking fee is excluded from refund amount

About this property

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Frequently Asked Questions about Exclusive 17th C Villa on the Island of San Giulio with boat and mainland garage

Exclusive 17th C Villa on the Island of San Giulio with boat and mainland garage is able to accommodate up to 10 guests. See all property details.

Exclusive 17th C Villa on the Island of San Giulio with boat and mainland garage has 4 bathrooms available. See all property details.

Exclusive 17th C Villa on the Island of San Giulio with boat and mainland garage has 5 bedrooms available. See all property details.

Stays at Exclusive 17th C Villa on the Island of San Giulio with boat and mainland garage must last at least 7 nights. See all property details.

Exclusive 17th C Villa on the Island of San Giulio with boat and mainland garage - Tripadvisor