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Village · Bellagio, Lombardia
Villa del Balbianello
18th-century villa on the Punta di Lavedo in Lenno, with terraced gardens above the lake and the collection of explorer Guido Monzino. Visit by reservation only.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Villa del Balbianello
Villa del Balbianello was built beginning in 1787 for Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, on the Punta di Lavedo, a green peninsula that projects into the lake at Lenno, now part of the municipality of Tremezzina. Later it was frequented by patriots of the Risorgimento and by collecting families.
The last owner was Guido Monzino, an entrepreneur and explorer who led expeditions to the North Pole and Italy's first expedition to Everest in 1973. He bequeathed the villa to the FAI, the Italian heritage trust, and the interior houses maps, expedition objects and art he collected.
The gardens descend in terraces down to the water, with plane trees pruned into candelabra shapes, lawns and a loggia open to both sides of the lake. The setting has appeared in films such as Star Wars: Episode II and 007 Casino Royale.
Reservation is mandatory. The season typically runs from mid-March to early November, with openings on some winter days. The interior tour of the villa is guided.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1.5–2 hours for the garden and the guided villa visit, not including travel.
Best time
In the morning, when the light hits the loggia and there are fewer visitors. The season usually runs from mid-March to early November.
How to get there
From Bellagio, boat to Lenno. From the pier it's about 1 km uphill on foot, around 25 minutes, or a water taxi from Lido di Lenno. There is no car access to the villa.
Tip
Book ahead, because visits are scheduled by time. Bring footwear for the uphill walk. Check the weekly closing days.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Villa del Balbianello
Do you need to reserve Villa del Balbianello?
Yes. Reservation is mandatory, and visits to the villa's interior are guided.
How do I get there on foot?
From the center of Lenno, about 1 km uphill, roughly 25 minutes. There's also a water taxi from the Lido di Lenno.
What films were filmed there?
Among others, Star Wars: Episode II and Casino Royale (007).