Overall, the location of this property is incredible. Overlooking the lake with unobstructed views, 5 minute walk to the ferry, 7 minute walk to anywhere in Varenna and a variety of restaurants within a few hundred feet of the apartment.
However, there are some things that anyone considering renting here should know.
1. There is no air-conditioning, and in the summer it is HOT, especially on the upper, bedroom level of the apartment. The sun beats down from the west all afternoon and into the evening, and it takes a long time for the floor to begin to cool down even with windows wide open. Some of the advertisements (including the booklet inside the unit) mention "AC," but this unit does not offer that. There are floor level fans in the bedrooms that help, but it is still important to note.
2. Everything in Varenna is up and down; up stairs and ramps to the main piazza and street, down to the lake level and Elizabeth House. We enjoyed the constant workout, but important for renters to know.
3. There are also ants that were a consistent problem on the bottom, kitchen level, floor of the rental. Though really a nuisance more than anything, it means that you have to store all food in the refrigerator to keep it safe from infestation. The property managers provided ant spray, but that only a short lived solution as the ants quickly found alternative entry points.
4. For three south facing windows on the upper floor, pigeons had taken over area outside those window, so we were unable to open the windows in the bedrooms, which would have been helpful given the heat.
5. I was also disappointed with my communication with Varenna Holidays as I tried several times to engage in rational dialog about the AC and ant problem before my visit and was unable to get a fair and reasonable response from them. Even during my stay I asked if they would be willing to provide any discount due to the ants in particular, and there was never even a response to my request.
So, in conclusion, given the right weather and pest control, this could be an ultimate vacation rental on Lake Como, but renters should be aware of those important factors. Regarding the responses from Varenna Holidays, I was, and am still disappointed. I think their attitude is that you are renting from us now, and most likely will not be back again, so why treat you like a respected client vs. a one time transaction. Italy, Lake Como and Varenna are amazing, I hope you find the right accommodation!
