Situated only 10 km from Lugano in a landscape conservation area, Castello di Valsolda is a pedestrian-only historic village dated from the 12th century and where time seems to stand still. Enchanting and quaint, Castello di Valsolda is famous for its stunning baroque church, romantic winding alleyways and the Pagani museum dedicated to one of the region’s most celebrated painters. Numerous hiking and biking trails start from the village and refreshing natural pools as well as the lake Lugano invite you for a swim, all within walking distance from the villa.

The name “Castello” finds its origin in the ancient fortress which stood until the 16th century when it was dismantlement under the pressure of the Swiss state. Built on the foundations of the ancient stronghold, the hamlet retains the semicircular course of the ancient defensive walls around the high ground which had housed its nucleus.

Valsolda is a comune of about 1,400 inhabitants in the Province of Como in the Italian region of Lombardy and close to the Swiss border. It is located about 60 kilometres north of Milan, about 25 kilometres north of Como and 2 kilometres east of Lugano. Valsolda gives the name to the river Soldo who cuts across the valley. The municipality was formed in 1927 and it is subdivided into nine villages: Cressogno, San Mamete, Albogasio, Oria and Santa Margherita on the shores of Lake Lugano, as well as Loggio, Drano, Puria, Dasio and Castello on the mountains above.

The most accredited theory about the origin of the name “Valsolda” is that this name comes from the old Latin expression “VallumSolidum”, meaning fortified building. 

With its proximity to the lake and the river soldo, Castello di Vasolda is a great pied-à-terre to explore nearby swimming spot.

Park San Mamete di Valsolda: The park offers some lawns with shady spots (ideal for a picnic), a kid playground, a small public swimming pool and a wooden jetty with direct access to the lake.

Natural pools Castello di Valsolda: Ideal for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day. The pools are located right outside the village, walking towards the village of Puria (about 10-15 minutes walk from the villa).

Spiaggia la rivetta (Lago di piano, Carlazzo): This charming and quiet swimming spot is ideal for a day out with family and friends. There is a green lawn, pic-nic tables and a jetty. There are no motorized boats on this small lake situated in a natural reserve.

Spiaggia communale (Osteno-Claino): Situated on the other side of the lake Lugano,this large pebble beach is a great swimming spot with beautiful views of the Valsolda region.