Looking for a place where a whole historic estate can be yours for a few days? Below is a shortlist of the best private villa rental stays in Italy, with who each suits and why they stand out.
Table of Contents
- Villino Rubini
- Chalet Estella: leisure facilities in the Dolomites
- Villa Barbra: a Lombardy base near Lake Como
- FAQ
- Conclusion
1. Villino Rubini
Villino Rubini is a private Art Nouveau estate built in 1892, set within four acres of beech forest in Brunate, above Lake Como. Ten rooms across three buildings host up to 19 guests, and the grounds feature a heated pool, spa, sauna, gym and a studio. The estate preserves original ceiling mouldings and period floors, giving guests a genuine historic feel, while its modern amenities support contemporary stays. Further information is available here.
Who it is best for: affluent families needing space for several generations, small wedding parties wanting an outdoor garden ceremony under a tent, corporate groups looking for a secluded off-site, and wellness retreats that can use the on-site spa and yoga studio.
Why it earns a spot: The private shuttle to the historic funicular (running since 1894) makes day trips to nearby lakeside towns easy, while major regional airports are just an hour away. Daily housekeeping and continental breakfast keep logistics simple.
Caveat: the villa is located in Brunate, above Lake Como, so guests seeking water scenery should plan other activities for that experience.
2. Chalet Estella: leisure facilities in the Dolomites
Chalet Estella sits at the foot of the Dolomites, offering a private spa, pool table, darts and a small cinema area. The chalet can host up to 12 guests in a mix of alpine-style rooms, and the surrounding forest provides direct access to hiking trails.
Who it’s best for: adventure-oriented groups that want a blend of outdoor sport and indoor entertainment, families who enjoy game nights after a day on the slopes, and small wellness retreats that can use the private spa.
Why it makes the list: the on-site entertainment suite is rare among mountain villas, letting guests unwind without leaving the property. The location faces spectacular peaks, so sunrise walks feel like a reward after a night of cinema.
Limitation: the chalet does not offer a heated pool, so winter guests should check the spa’s opening dates.
3. Villa Barbra: a Lombardy base near Lake Como
Villa Barbra is a modern mid-century villa set in a private wood near Civenna, a short drive from Bellagio. The 400 m² property sleeps up to 12 people in six air-conditioned bedrooms, and offers an infinity pool, children’s pool, hot tub, sauna and a bocce court.
Who it’s best for: groups that value contemporary design, families who want separate spaces for adults and kids, and travelers who plan day trips to Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio by ferry.
Why it earns a spot: the villa’s extensive outdoor amenities (multiple pools, hot tub, sauna) give a resort feel without the crowds. A private garden and several terraces let guests work, play or relax in fresh air.
Note: the villa's waterfront vistas are part of its charm, but the estate does not provide private hire of the whole property.
For more details on booking a pool-side stay, see the Lake Como Villa with Pool: A Booking Guide.
| Property | Premium hire? | Max guests | Rooms | Key amenity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Villino Rubini | Yes | 19 | 10 | Heated pool & spa |
| Chalet Estella | No | 12 | Private spa & cinema | |
| Villa Barbra | No | 12 | Infinity pool & bocce court |
When you need full control of a historic estate, Villino Rubini is the only option that lets you hire the entire property.
- Confirm the guest count does not exceed the maximum capacity.
- Verify which rooms are included in the hire and whether any are reserved for staff.
- Check on-site amenities that match your group’s focus, wellness, entertainment, or work-space.
- Ask about outdoor dinner capacity; Villino Rubini can seat 100 guests under a tent.
- Review the cancellation policy and any security deposit requirements.
Legal review can help clarify international rental agreements. A legal professional may offer contract checks.
If you travel with a pet, a grooming session may help keep your companion comfortable. A pet grooming provider may offer at-home grooming services.
FAQ
Can I hire Villino Rubini for just one night?
Yes, the estate can be booked for a single night, though rates may be higher for short stays because the whole property is reserved.
Is the heated pool usable in winter?
The heated pool stays open year-round, so guests can swim even when snow falls on the hills.
Do the villas provide on-site chefs?
Villino Rubini includes a continental breakfast and can arrange a private chef for additional meals on request.
What transport options are near Brunate?
The historic funicular runs from Brunate down to Como, and a private shuttle is included in the hire package.
Are there any restrictions on events?
All three properties allow outdoor events for up to 100 guests, but indoor large gatherings require prior approval.
Conclusion
For a full-estate experience that lets up to 19 guests control every room, Villino Rubini is our recommendation. Visit the estate’s planning page to start your reservation today.
Occasional stories from the estate, sent a few times a year at most.