We were three couples all celebrating wedding anniversaries, 31, 35 and 39 years! We chose Menaggio because it was conveniently located on the ferry lines between Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio. We found the hotels to be pretty costly and we wanted a space for us all to gather for drinks, hanging out and some meals.
Villa Navalia was exactly what we needed! We took the upstairs or "penthouse" which has 3 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths. Each bedroom has an ensuite bathroom and a deck. One bathroom, which is the largest, has a tub with a hand held shower head as well. This didn't bother us, because we both like baths and we could use another couples shower when we needed it. Two bedrooms have King size beds and the third has twin beds pushed together.
I am being specific about the configuration because this may or may not make a difference.
We were all thrilled!!! We all walked in and said "WOW"!!
First of all, the place is very clean, modern and has a ton of space. The kitchen was beautiful with stainless steel and had pretty much everything we needed to cook and clean (laundry and dishwasher detergent). We went to the local market down the street for breakfast items, fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, chicken and fish.
There was an expresso/coffee machine and a washing machine. Laura left us with a bottle of champagne, coke, expresso pods and filters for "american" coffee.
The living room has a big comfy couch and the dining room has a beautiful table for at least 6. We kept most of our windows and doors open because the beauty of the Lake was everywhere. The deck in front was a favorite gathering spot. We looked down at the marina, up to the amazing mountains, left to see the Villa for the James Bond Movie, Casino Royale, right up the lake to Bellagio and across the lake to Varenna. At night, the sites were all twinkling with lights.
There is ample parking in the front. We used our car off and on, but you could walk to town in just 15 minutes. The Villa also offers 6 bikes with locks for free. (a very nice touch)
From the minute we met Laura at check in, she was terrific. She was so helpful with anything that we needed! She and her father, were very gracious hosts who made sure we had everything we could possibly hope for. In the Villa, there is a book filled with restaurants, excursion ideas, directions, etc. Laura arranged for a private water taxi tour, an absolute must to truly appreciate Lake Como, and a Private Chef to cook us dinner.
The Private Chef, Johann and his lovely wife from lacenaperfetta.com prepared one of the best meals we have ever had. They arrived around 6 pm and took over. White linen table cloth service, food presentation to rival any US restaurant and every bite was an orgasmic experience!!!!! We had three appetizers, two pastas, Sea Bass or Veal Saltimbocca and finished with an apple pie "Tarte Tatin" with caramel, fresh berries and whipped cream. We all agreed that this was the highlight of our trip. We all felt like we were on the lifestyles of the rich and famous - our private chef in our fantastic lakeside Villa!
By the way, Laura showed us the downstairs unit, which has 6 bedrooms and bathrooms. It was decorated and appointed just like ours, but with a larger kitchen, dining area inside and out and a huge deck with a Jacuzzi on it. DOUBLE WOW!!! Grab your friends and/or families and GO!
We cannot recommend this place enough. We all agreed that the value for our dollar was exceptional, the accommodations were wonderful, the location was ideal (more easily walkable than Bellagio or Varenna) and the hosts were fantastic!!
