luxury listed villas for sale Stresa, Italy

On the shores of Lake Maggiore, along one of the most elegant and historically significant stretches of the waterfront, stands a villa whose story remained known for decades only to a highly select circle. A residence once belonging to the elite of Northern Italy, connected to prominent figures in architecture, landscape design, and the entrepreneurial culture of its era, it remained for many years one of the lake’s most private and discreet estates. Today, more than a century after its construction, the villa quietly reveals the story of its remarkable past. Between the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries (circa 1900–1905), lawyer Antonio Casanova carefully selected this exceptional lakeside site. The land had previously belonged to Enrico Rovelli, one of the leading landscape designers of the late nineteenth century, renowned for his collections of rare plants and camellias that helped shape the botanical identity of the Piedmont shore of Lake Maggiore. Captivated by the location, Casanova commissioned the construction of an eclectic-style villa distinguished by Tuscan and Corinthian pilasters, rigorous façade symmetry, and a prominent base overlooking the water. From its inception, the residence was conceived as a harmonious synthesis of architecture and landscape, a principle that has defined its identity throughout the decades. In the mid-twentieth century, the villa acquired a new cultural dimension. In 1952, the park underwent a transformation designed by Piero Portaluppi, one of the most influential Italian architects of the twentieth century. His project reshaped the gardens into a theatrical landscape of perspectives, visual axes, and filtered light beneath mature trees, creating a continuous dialogue with the lake. The garden thus became a true second façade of the villa. Today, the property presents itself as a significant private architectural and landscape estate. The total built area extends to 2,344 sqm, of which approximately 1,960 sqm are currently inhabited or habitable. The grounds cover 24,000 sqm of meticulously maintained parkland featuring mature trees, rare botanical species, and extensive areas of complete privacy. In addition to the main villa, the estate includes two independent buildings that complement the residence and can accommodate a variety of residential or service-related uses. A third building, formerly used for storing produce from the orchard and vegetable garden, remains alongside its original greenhouse, although the orchard and vegetable garden are no longer in operation. An exceptionally rare feature of the property is its privately owned boathouse, complete with direct lake access and its own private garden—an extraordinarily exclusive amenity within the Lake Maggiore area. Today, this villa represents far more than an elegant lakeside residence. It is a unique heritage asset where history, architecture, landscape design, and a direct relationship with the water come together in a truly irreplaceable setting. Disclaimer: The information is purely indicative and is in no way attributable to a contractual obligation. All data is subject to verification before starting any form of compromise. Energy Performance Certificate (APE) not available, delivered to the deed. - For further information, please contact the agent at the following details: +39.366.486 3739 - 
[email protected].

Nestled in the unspoiled greenery of the Varese countryside, just a few minutes from the city center and in a setting that guarantees complete privacy, Villa delle Rose is an elegant estate of remarkable charm surrounded by more than 12 hectares of private land. A truly exceptional property where history, nature and refined living come together in perfect harmony. Dating back to the 18th century, the villa originally formed the heart of an important noble estate. In 2005, the property underwent a meticulous restoration aimed at preserving its historical and architectural identity while introducing modern comforts and advanced technical systems. Natural stone, exposed wooden beams and original architectural details blend seamlessly with high-quality finishes and contemporary design elements, creating interiors of timeless character and sophistication. The villa extends over four levels and offers approximately 975 sqm of living space. The interiors are distinguished by generous proportions and abundant natural light. The main floor features a series of elegant reception rooms overlooking the park, including refined living areas, a TV lounge, an impressive salon with fireplace and original stone arches, and a grand dining room designed to host large gatherings. The professional Boffi kitchen, designed by Norman Foster and equipped with professional-grade appliances, serves as the operational heart of the residence and enjoys direct access to the outdoor portico, ideal for entertaining and al fresco dining. The principal sleeping quarters occupy much of the first floor and include a bright master suite with private bathroom and walk-in wardrobe, together with additional bedrooms, each served by dedicated bathrooms. One of the most remarkable spaces within the residence is the spectacular double-height library and living room, enhanced by exposed stone walls and custom-made bookcases. A private study and further accommodation complete this level. The upper floor has been designed as an independent and versatile living area, offering additional en-suite bedrooms, one featuring a whirlpool bathtub, as well as a spacious multi-purpose room suitable as a private gym, games room or hobby area. The basement level accommodates a large laundry room, technical areas and an impressive 230 sqm garage with capacity for up to eight vehicles, making it particularly appealing for collectors and automotive enthusiasts. The outdoor areas are among the property's most distinctive features. The private park extends across approximately eight hectares and is enriched by mature trees, gravel pathways, bamboo groves, cedars, maples, pines, orchards and beautifully maintained lawns. A further 4.2 hectares of land expand the estate to more than 12 hectares in total. Within the grounds are a picturesque spring-fed pond used as a water reserve for irrigation, a caretaker's house, dedicated animal areas and a secondary independent entrance. The wellness area has been designed to provide complete relaxation and privacy. The heated swimming pool, equipped with an automated cover, is surrounded by sunbathing terraces and leisure spaces perfectly integrated into the surrounding landscape. The property also enjoys breathtaking views over the Sacro Monte di Varese, Campo dei Fiori and the majestic Pre-Alps and Alps, offering spectacular scenery throughout the year. Modern amenities include wooden-framed double-glazed windows, underfloor heating, fibre-optic internet throughout the residence, video intercom, CCTV surveillance, comprehensive indoor and outdoor alarm systems connected to a private security service, a private well and an independent water source. Every detail has been carefully considered to ensure exceptional levels of comfort, security and functionality. Conveniently located within easy reach of Varese, the A8 motorway, Milan Malpensa International Airport, Milan and Lugano, Villa delle Rose represents a rare opportunity for those seeking an exclusive residence immersed in nature without sacrificing accessibility and international connections. A truly remarkable estate where historical significance, privacy, extensive grounds and extraordinary natural surroundings combine to create one of the most distinguished properties in the Varese area. Disclaimer: The information is purely indicative and is in no way attributable to a contractual obligation. All data is subject to verification before starting any form of compromise. Energy Performance Certificate (APE) not available, delivered to the deed. - For further information, please contact the BHHS Lake Maggiore Palazzo Estate office at +39.345. 4639511or via email at [email protected].