Entire home·Private host

Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C]

Photo gallery for Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C]

A balcony with a view of the sea, a chair, and a hanging plant. - Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] (Varenna)
A cozy attic bedroom with a wooden sloped ceiling, two wooden chairs, a patterned rug, and a view of a stone building through a window. - Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] (Varenna)
A wooden staircase with metal railings leading to a loft area with skylights. - Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] (Varenna)
A man relaxing on a wooden chair by a window with a view of a mountain and lake. - Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] (Varenna)
A room with stone walls and large windows overlooking a body of water and a mountain. - Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] (Varenna)
Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] provides amenities, such as a terrace and laundry facilities. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5120 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Mountain view

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About this property

Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C]

  • Casa Mara (CasaMaraVarenna.com) is a spacious, cozy and romantic holiday house located on the first floor of a historic building in the heart of the beautiful Varenna.

    Nestled in the famous lakefront area of Varenna, this house boasts a prime location just a stone's throw from the tranquil waters, with only 16 feet (5 meters) separating its doorstep and the shoreline. By being in the city center, Casa Mara offers easy access to a range of bars, restaurants, and wine cellars in the surrounding area, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

    Casa Mara spans two floors with a total of 120 square meters, and can comfortably accommodate up to 6 guests. The building underwent a complete restoration in recent years, preserving its historical charm and details from the 19th century while incorporating modern, high-quality furnishings. You will find a modern apartment within a timeless frame of elegance, complete with all the necessary comforts to elevate your holiday experience.

    The main floor features two bedrooms, each providing guests with a comfortable sleeping space. The first bedroom comes with a queen-size bed and a direct access to the balcony, offering guests a chance to step outside and enjoy the surroundings. The second bedroom is equipped with a queen-size bed and a single bed, providing additional sleeping options for groups or families.

    The main floor of the building boasts an open-space room that harmoniously blends kitchen, dining and living room. It offers a well-equipped Italian-style cooking and dining area and a beautifully designed and charming open lounge. The living room also leads to the balcony overlooking the most picturesque stairway of Varenna, offering a stunning view of Como Lake. Lastly, the main floor includes a very comfortable bathroom too, with shower, toilet and washing machine.

    The open-space on the first floor offers a direct access to the second floor attic. Accounted as one of the best view rooms of the lake, the attic Relax Area is what makes Casa Mara unique. Our guests can soak in the beauty of the lake while enjoying the peace and serenity of the house, a true gift that only Casa Mara can offer.
    The attic also features a third bedroom, provided with two comfortable chaise lounges, as well as a half bathroom, adding to the overall convenience of the space.

    To ensure a comfortable stay even during the hottest Italian summer days, the house is strategically provided with two A/C units.

    Managed with meticulous attention and loved by its devoted owners, this holiday home welcomes guests seeking a haven of peace and beauty. Indulge in breathtaking sunset views, the serene dance of swimming swans, and the joy of sipping a glass of delicious Italian wine with friends and family in the heart of a typical Italian lake town. Casa Mara is the perfect destination for a relaxing, family, or romantic getaway, offering a memorable experience that will be treasured forever.

    ---

    Check-in is available from 16:00 to 20:00
    Check-out must be done by 10:00

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car not required

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Bidet
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Terrace

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In a village
  • In the city centre
  • Near the bay
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Unit size: 1,292 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number IT097084B4899BRN92, 097084-CIM-00158

We should mention

All guests, including children, must be present at check-in and show their government-issued photo ID card or passport
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 5000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Varenna, this holiday home is in the city centre and on the waterfront. Bellagio Port and Lierna Harbor are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Villa Monastero and Enoteca Principessa. Villa Melzi Gardens and Gelateria Dulcis in Fundo are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain climbing and hiking/biking trails. Visit our Varenna travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Varenna
Map
Varenna, Lombardia

What's nearby

  • An interior of a church with wooden pews, stone walls, and colorful frescoes.
    San Giovanni Battista Church
    2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • A mountain at sunset, a calm lake, and a building with red and white stripes.
    Branch of Lecco
    3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • A statue by a lake with buildings and mountains in the background.
    Villa Monastero
    3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • A coastal town with colorful buildings, a red pathway, and boats on the water.
    Lover's Walk
    3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Royal Victoria
    2 min walk - 0.2 km

Getting around

  • Varenna-Esino Station
    8 min walk
  • Lugano (LUG-Agno)
    63 min drive

Restaurants

  • Hotel Du Lac
    27 min drive
  • La Cambusa
    5 min walk
  • Bar Il Molo
    1 min walk
  • Bar Florence
    26 min drive
  • Hotel Olivedo
    5 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C]?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C]?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] located?

Located in the heart of Varenna, this holiday home is steps away from San Giovanni Battista Church, Church of San Giorgio and Royal Victoria. Branch of Lecco and Villa Monastero are also within 5 minutes. Varenna-Esino Station is 8 minutes by foot and Fiumelatte Station is 20 minutes.

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Reviews

Casa Mara: the Great Beauty of Varenna - Lakefront Haven, Stunning Views [A/C] Reviews

10

Exceptional

10

Cleanliness

10

Location

10

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 76 out of 78 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 78 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 78 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 78 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 78 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
The home was even more beautiful than the photos showed. It was very clean and thoughtfully stocked with basics to get us started. It was one of the most pleasant vacation experiences we've ever had. Paolo and Mara are excellent and responsive hosts that take great care to make sure the guests are comfortable. 10 out of 5 stars :)
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house is in the perfect location. We felt right at home with everything we needed. We were so comfortable and the views are stunning. We spent a week here and were sad to leave. Paola was very helpful with questions prior to our arrival and met us at check in to do a walkthrough. Highly recommend Casa Mara!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stop scrolling and book it! We stayed at Casa Mara for a week and couldn't have been more happy with the decision. The location couldn't be better, check-in was a breeze, the place was clean and cozy, and the lake view from upstairs is incredible. Add to that how helpful Paolo was in sharing advice for the area and this one is a winner. Just don't forget to get your ferry tickets early in the day like we did!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our host was great! He clearly explained everything to us. We felt very welcomed. The amenities were beyond what was expected.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Casa Mara stay

Everything was wonderful from the location to the views to how easy it was to communicate with Paolo. I would highly recommend this property to anyone looking for a great place to stay in Varenna!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely fantastic stay. From initial communications to personal meet and brief by Paolo made arrival process welcoming and thorough. The location was perfect for travel in or away from Varenna. The kitchen was well stocked with snackies and a welcome bottle of wine. The loft overlooking the lake was a fabulous retreat after a day exploring the lake. Can’t recommend highly enough.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Varenna Experience

It was so wonderful to stay here! Truly felt like staying in the home of your favorite Italian family. Everything was perfectly ready for our arrival, including Paolo meeting us at the train station to show us the way. The location in Varenna is the best, with a 5 minute walk to the ferry, 10 minutes too the train station and 3 minutes to excellent restaurants. I would absolutely stay here every time!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and clean property, great location

This property checks all the boxes for a great trip to Varenna and to explore Lake Como. It is in an ideal location, central to restaurants and shopping and close to the ferry docks. It was incredibly clean and well appointed with nice details, like coffee and basic herbs and spices and plenty of other amenities to make the stay comfortable. We spent hours sitting in the loft, taking in the view as well as exploring the town and other towns in the Lake Como are. Communication with the hosts was simple and easy. We are already thinking about how we can return.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great views and complete setup

Marco was a great host, and Casa Mara is an enviable home. Made for a great week in Varenna to relax right by the water. We even made a couple of meals in the kitchen rather than going out every meal, and the kitchen setup was fully stocked with everything we needed. Thanks for the bottle of wine too!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Casa Mara exceeded our expectations ❤️

Casa Mara was everything I hoped it would be. Paolo met us at the train station and brought us to our home for the next 5 nights. The location couldn’t be better. The views and the comfort of the home made it difficult to leave. It was a short walk to the ferry and we explored many other towns along the lake, but my heart was in Varenna. Thank you Marco and Paolo for an excellent stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A week in Verenna

We loved everything about it this beautiful apartment, the check in process was so lovely, Paolo and Mara are very accommodating. The local restaurants, deli, bakery and grocery store are perfect. We had amazing weather so spent time out on the water and exploring the surrounding areas. As a family of 5 we loved the different areas in the apartment and how close it was to the water, shops and restaurants. We will miss this apartment and Verenna as we stayed for a week we got to know the locals and relax and enjoy the area. The apartment had everything we needed for our stay! Laura, Dave, Ethan, Milla and Tommy
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Views in Varenna

When we arrived in Varenna Paolo and Mara met us at the house and went over everything with us. They even took my son-in-law with them when they left and showed him where the best restaurants were in Varenna. My son-in-law even came back with an amazing bottle of wine compliments of our hosts. We would highly recommend staying here. It was very clean and immaculate. Whenever we had any questions our hosts would immediately respond. Some of the best hosts so far on VRBO!! We definitely will be coming back.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Phenomenal.

Where even to begin? The spectacular views (morning, night, rainy, sunny -- every moment)... the spacious and sparkling interior... the private balcony, our of sight from all below... the *perfect* location, five minutes from just about everything you'll need/want.... But above all, the care and hospitality of Paolo, Mara & Marco, who from start to finish were our dream hosts. We were so grateful not just for the clear communication throughout, but also for the warm welcome as soon as we set foot in Varenna. Paolo and Mara make you feel like family -- that the house is "yours" and that there's no other place you'd rather be. The only negative part is that we're not there still. Truly, we could not have asked for a better experience. We will be back.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Picture perfect Varenna 2024

This home is a ideally situated in the idyllic setting of Varenna. The location could not be better for walking around the town. Paolo is an owner / host and was very welcoming. He met us at the train to help us with a short walk to the house. This home is 400 or so years old but was completely renovated and is stunning. The views from upstairs overlooking Lake Como are better than the photos. The kitchen was fully outfitted and we cooked in several nights. Paolo provided many recommendations which exceeded expectations. Our family is my wife and three grown children, we are typical Italian size (read not so tall or large). We could easily manage the spiral stairs and low beams upstairs, but if you are tall or not so nimble this may be challenging. Our only small comment that prevents a perfect 10/10 was that outside of the master bed the mattresses were very firm and the two futons were not able to be used by grown adults. If your trip is 2-4 adults who can share a bed you will not be disappointed. Varenna and Casa Mara are a place I would definitely return to stay again.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing property and location

My wife and I retired this year, and we wanted to find a special place to wind up our trip in Italy, especially as our two adult sons were with us. Our expectations were greatly exceeded. Paolo met us at the train station, and on the way he commented "you have made an excellent choice." Indeed, his words rang true! The interior is tastefully furnished and decorated. He pointed out the 500 yr old wood beams which were left intact after it was refurbished. It was absolutely spotless inside, it is easily the cleanest rental we have ever stated in. Most of our time, when there, was spent on the second floor, where there is a breathtaking view of the lake and mountain peak. The scene constantly changed, sometimes by the hour. At times the clouds would touch the mountain. Thunderstorms might roll in, once the peak was almost obliterated by fog, at other times, the sky was blue and you could see perfectly. I would suggest walking up the street on the other side of the train station, where there is a great view of the Swiss Alps. And certainly, make the long but challenging (for us, not our sons) climb to the castle for more incredible views. We typically don't spend what we did for lodging as we did, but it was worth every penny. It was an unforgettable experience. Thanks again, Paolo and Mara. (PS when you come to America, let me know and you'll get treated to the worst Italian food you have ever eaten haha).
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed almost a week and did not want to leave. Paolo's apartment was a wonderful respite that created a lifetime of memories for our family. The apartment was spotless. It had a fully stocked kitchen along with linens and toiletries to make it feel like home. The detailed touches of "spa" bags and a bottle of wine were very thoughtful - thank you! The location of the apartment was dreamy with easy access to great food, the ferry and train station. What an incredible view from the top floor especially during a lightening storm - what a spectacular show!!! Our sincerest thank you to Paolo and Mara for sharing their beautiful home. Paolo's communication was superb! A piece of our hearts remain here in hopes to return again someday.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect, perfect hosts
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at Casa Mara. The place is full of charm, very comfortable and the location could not be better. There are beautiful views, annd easy access to restaurants, the lake and the ferry. Paolo was a wonderful host - he managed everything up to and during our stay with efficiency and kindness. I highly recommend Casa Mara.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The villa is just the right size for a couple or small family. It’s perfectly located in Varenna and easy walking distance to everything. The owners are wonderful, met us to take us to the property and provide several nice amenities. They also checked in on us to make sure we were okay and provided several options for things to do and places to eat. Would highly recommend if you want a true Italian experience.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
We stayed at Casa Mara for six nights with our son and daughter-in-law and two young grandchildren. Our hosts Paolo and Mara greeted us on our arrival. (Paolo met us at the train station and guided our walk to the apartment.) They could not have been more gracious as hosts. The unit is beautiful and very comfortable. We especially enjoyed cooking dinner and dining together at the large kitchen table and time spent relaxing in the loft watching boats on the lake and observing the ever changing landscape of clouds and sun and mountains out the large picture windows. The location in the heart of old Varenna was perfect - a short walk to the water, the piazza, ferries, restaurants, groceries, bakery and playground. We enjoyed the Villa Monestero and Villa Cipressi a short walk away and a hike up to the Castello de Vesio. Daytrips to Managgio and Bellagio were easily done by ferry. We arranged with a local taxi driver - Monica - to take us to our family cooking class high above Bellano. All worked out very well and made for a relaxing, memorable stay at Lake Como.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect home!

We loved our time in this beautiful home! The view and location are the best in Varenna. The home is impeccably clean and equipped for all your needs. The owners are kind and welcoming people. We would 100% love to stay here again. Thank you for a perfect stay!
Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable hideaway from the crowd

The property is extremely comfortable with amazing views over Lake Como. No need to queue and hassle for restaurants, you can buy fresh pasta, pizza, pastry’s and groceries locally and prepare yourself while enjoying an fantastic view.We would happily stay here again. The hosts are a friendly family who want you to relax and enjoy.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

An amazing place on the lake

Marco and his father wete gracious hosts. The aparment was in the center of things but off on the side. Everything in the apartment was well done and the views could not be beat. We would stay there again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Varenna from Canada

Varenna was amazing, property was amazing. Zero complaints. Host met us at the train station and walked us to the place for check in, and made everything easy for our stay after that.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Simply perfect!

The entire week felt like we were in a fantasy world. The host and hostess were friendly, helpful, and went out of their way to work with us. I can’t even put into words the beauty of this villa!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023