Casa Panadel

With spectacular views across Lake Como and the mountains beyond, the elegant and contemporary Casa Panadel welcomes up to eight guests for a stress free break, in the charming harbour village of Sala Comacina. Just a few minutes’ walk from the colourful and superbly maintained fishermen’s houses at the village marina, this spacious, four-bedroomed lakefront villa is ideally situated for exploring in and around the lake.

Bright, whitewashed walls dominate both inside and out, allowing the uber-stylish furniture and artwork to really pop, especially in the lounge. The designer leather sofas and chaises longues are indicative of the chic styling that extends throughout the villa, along with an elaborate, ornamental fireplace that sits opposite patio doors with a spectacular vista outside. Modern luxury extends into the kitchen-diner, with high-end appliances integrated with beautiful cabinets that are colour matched with the hardwood flooring and a stylish dining table that’s perfect for a social lunch. Those keen to get creative with the wealth of superb local produce available will love this. It’s a proper ‘cook’s kitchen’, with a high ceiling and doors to the outdoor dining area.

Possibly by accident, but likely by design, the rectangular windows looking out from the upper floor’s bedrooms can be mistaken at first glance for elaborate paintings, such are the grand views across the lake toward the olive green hills beyond. Two of the double bedrooms are en-suite, with guests occupying the other double and twin rooms enjoying separate, private bathrooms.
If, by the time you arrive at Casa Panadel, you still have any residual feelings of tension from daily life, they will soon dissipate once you take in the humbling view from the garden.

This region’s infectiously relaxing atmosphere brings you in tune with nature, with the view from the loungers on the garden’s lush green lawn giving what feels like a private, panoramic show. The spectacular hillside backdrop to the lake, itself busy with boats of various types, is truly mesmeric. As the day draws to its close, and the sun’s reflection on the water gives way to illumination from the villages on the eastern shore, where better to enjoy the evening tranquillity and colour than from your own Jacuzzi?

Sala Comancina is a picturesque harbour village, with all the facilities you’ll need for the duration of your stay. Greater shopping opportunities await in Como, just half an hour away by road, or reachable – like all of Lake Como’s towns and villages - by boat transfer. Hiking opportunities are pretty much limitless, whether exploring forested paths, taking in mountainside views, or exploring the stylish, charming towns that line the shores of the lake. The water itself is a magnet for adrenaline junkies and more laid back visitors alike, with everything from jet skis to pleasure cruisers offering unique experiences in this magical part of Italy.