Because our first visit to Bellagio a couple of years ago was so short on time we didn’t have much time to tour the area. Since we had a little bit more time this round, we decided to spend a gorgeous afternoon taking the ferry across the lake to visit the famed Villa del Balbianello.

Villa del Balbianello is just one of many beautiful, historic, gigantic mansions on Lake Como, although a slightly more famous one than some of the others. Having been used as a movie set for Star Wars Episode II (where Padme comforted Anakin after his nightmare, and where they got married), Oceans Twelve, and Casino Royale (where Bond was recuperating from his torture), many movie fans will recognize its features. Truly though – it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. It is otherworldly.

Originally built for Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini at the end of the 18th century, it passed through several hands before being purchased by famed Italian explorer Guido Monzino. Mr. Monzino then left it to a national historic trust when he passed. I have to say that despite the fact that I wasn’t feeling well (oncoming food poisoning), this was one of my favorite days of the trip. Because we’re past tourist season, there weren’t a lot of other people at the Villa; we practically had the place to ourselves. We were able to take a tour of the house itself – left as Mr. Monzino left it, including his impressive Chinese, African, and Pre-Columbian art collection as well as all of his expedition artifacts (he was the first Italian to climb Everest). The weather was absolutely gorgeous. It couldn’t have been a more perfect day. We reluctantly hopped back on the ferry to Bellagio when the Villa closed for the day. This is definitely also on my “must return” list.