In Carate Urio, on the western shore of the Lario, a private residence stands directly on the water: approximately 572 sqm across three floors and a large mansard attic.

What makes it rare is its absolute relationship with the lake: the private garden descends to the shore, where a private boathouse (darsena) allows the water to be lived in its most intimate form. From the terraces and broad balconies, the view crosses the Lario to the historic Villa Pliniana of Torno on the opposite shore, in a panorama that shifts with the light: soft and still at morning, golden at sunset.

Privacy, historic authenticity and direct access to the water, brought together at a single address.

The house retains the identity of a historic residence: original fireplaces, parquet, Venetian terrazzo, coffered and hand-decorated ceilings, original doors and Moltrasio stone.

The restoration was carried out with particular sensitivity, not to transform the villa but to preserve its character, while introducing the comforts of contemporary living: air conditioning, updated systems and renovated bathrooms with fine finishes, Carrara marble among them.

The main floor holds the representative spaces, with a double salon opening through tall French doors, a fireplace and coffered ceilings, and a contemporary steel kitchen that brings a measured contrast.

The first floor is the private quarter: the master suite, with an antique fireplace, walk-in closet and a lake-facing sitting area, and a second, generously sized bedroom with its own outlook. The second floor holds three further bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, and two terraces, one with a remarkable view toward Villa Pliniana. The top level, with its large mansard attic, completes the residence.

Carate Urio occupies a privileged stretch of the western shore, marked by historic villas, private gardens and small villages of real elegance.

Moltrasio, with its period houses and famous local stone, lies close by; Laglio keeps a quiet, reserved air; Cernobbio, home to Villa d'Este and Villa Erba, is one of the lake's leading international addresses. On the opposite shore, Torno and Villa Pliniana close one of the Lario's most evocative scenes. Milan and the airports of Malpensa and Linate are within easy reach.

And yet, once through the gate, the rhythm changes: the lake remains.