A historic villa located in Lesa, a village on the Italian side of Lake Maggiore, is now for sale. Built in 1788 as a hunting lodge for the family of Savio di Bernistel, who later became a member of Parliament, the villa boasts castle-like features such as a lookout turret, parapets, and Italianate design elements like round-arched windows and mosaic tile floors. The property later passed to the Sozzani family, who remodeled the villa in 1880 while maintaining its ornate ceilings and tall doorways with decorated pediments.
With 1,300 square meters (nearly 14,000 square feet) of refined living space, the villa includes a formal dining room with a chandelier, a living room with a marble fireplace, and rooftop patios offering views of Lake Maggiore and Lesa. Additional structures on the property provide another 1,200 square meters (13,000 square feet) of functional space, with a total of 25 bedrooms and 15 bathrooms. The lush grounds, encompassing over 15,000 square meters (nearly 4 acres), feature mature landscaping and manicured lawns, providing a private oasis for residents.
For the past 37 years, the property has been used as event space but can be converted into a private residence. Pascal Brülhart of Building Heritage, who is representing the villa, notes that it can be maintained as an investment property or transformed into a primary or vacation home. Lake Maggiore, known for its island villas and formal gardens, is a picturesque destination in Italy’s lake district, surrounded by mountains and offering a tranquil setting for the affluent.
Lesa, a fashionable getaway for the wealthy, is home to extravagant estates built for noble families and is located about 800 meters from the city center. The market on Lake Maggiore is experiencing growth, with properties ranging from €2 million to €15 million (approximately US $2.125 million to US $16 million). The villa, with its rich history and grandeur, is marketed as “price on request,” making it a unique opportunity for discerning buyers seeking a piece of Italian luxury living in a stunning lakeside setting. With its historical significance and luxurious amenities, this villa offers a rare chance to own a piece of Italian heritage in one of the most prestigious locations in the country.