If you like film, fashion, and glamorous travel, adding a stay at Villa Balbiano to your bucket list was briefly an amazing possibility. The villa, featured in the new film House of Gucci, went live on Airbnb earlier this week as a truly once in a lifetime rental opportunity—only two guests would be able to book a stay, and for only one night in March.
Not shockingly, the reservation was quickly booked, leaving countless lists unchecked. Fortunately, we can still dream about visiting this fascinating villa that is packed with history.
As if Lake Como is not enough of a draw, lucky guests can lounge in luxury at this ‘90s-era villa that exudes Italian opulence, featured as the home of Gucci family patriarch Aldo Gucci in the film. Built in the late 16th century, this was the original residence of Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio. A century later, Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini purchased the home and renovated it to serve as a venue to host society guests for festivals, banquets, and dances. So, it’s nothing short of a spectacle to see.
Today, Villa Balbiano is one of the largest private homes on Lake Como, where one unknown couple will eventually spend a night like a Gucci surrounded by luxury. The villa features six spacious and impeccably decorated suites designed by Jacques Garcia. The bathrooms are anything but understated with head-to-toe Italian marble and opulent fixtures.
Interior furnishings, provided by Sotheby’s and Christie’s, offer a glimpse of the era’s history with the finest objets d’art and period furniture. Spectacular 17th century frescoes painted by the Recchi brothers and Agostino Silva adorn the walls.
The villa’s exterior features rival the luxury furnishings indoors with breathtaking views overlooking Lake Como. Guests will have access to the villa’s garden, recognized by the British Society of Garden Designers, as well as the outdoor swimming pool, a private pier, and a boathouse.
This is an opportunity for star struck travelers to walk in the shoes of the House of Gucci’s stars, Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, Jared Leto, Jeremy Irons, Jack Huston, Salma Hayek and Al Pacino.
