Villa Musa welcomes guests from across the globe to enjoy an experience that harmonises luxury, relaxation and privacy. It is perfect for a holiday getaway, a corporate retreat, or an exquisite dining occasion with its fully equipped kitchen. Their philosophy emphasises a deep connection with nature, reflected in the thoughtful details they've incorporated to create an eco-friendly and sustainable environment, all while honouring the beauty of the surroundings.
“The sacred and the beautiful stand side by side. They have always stood side by side, and the one cannot survive without the other.”
— Roger Scruton, The Face of God (2012)
Set on the western shore of Lake Como near Lenno, Villa Musa is a luxurious retreat with stunning lake views and a beautiful pool. Since opening in June 2022, it has gained popularity for its peaceful, private atmosphere, all thanks to its Executive Director and Co-founder, Australian entrepreneur Claire Gray. The villa is available for weekly rentals, offering a perfect escape for those seeking a world-class experience.
Musa Muse
This luxurious villa, ideal for larger groups or those seeking seclusion, features six double bedrooms that accommodate up to 12 guests. Each morning, a private chef prepares a gourmet breakfast tailored to your preferences, using fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure a perfect start to your day. Spanning three floors, the villa includes a spacious living room with comfortable sofas and a fireplace, plus a dining area. Two of the en-suite bedrooms offer private balconies, adding a special touch to your stay.
Covering 700 sqm, the villa is bathed in natural light and offers breathtaking lake views through large windows. Enjoy the private infinity pool, jacuzzi, and spacious living areas, which include a cinema room, a pool table, and easy access to the pool terrace for a relaxing experience.
The villa’s outdoor spaces are just as impressive, with a vast terrace offering panoramic views of the lake and mountains. Several additional terraces are equipped with lounge and dining areas, perfect for outdoor relaxation. Guests can explore the nearby village of Lenno, with its historic villas like Villa Balbiano and Villa del Balbianello, or venture further to cities like Como and Milan. Designed by Claudia Kempen Concept studio, the villa’s décor blends natural tones and materials, creating an elegant and peaceful atmosphere throughout.
Como Secrets
Lake Como, Italy’s deepest lake, is a mild-climate destination that attracts visitors year-round. Famous for its stunning scenery and rich history, it’s the go-to spot for many celebrities, including George Clooney, who enjoy both the beauty of the lake and the charm of the local community. Among the best-known towns are Como and Lecco, each located on one of the lake’s two branches. However, hidden gems like Bellagio, Menaggio, Varenna, and Cernobbio await exploration.
Comacina Island, the only one of the lake, is home to the remains of the 11th-century Basilica of Sant’Eufemia, a reminder of the area’s rich spiritual and cultural significance, and believed to rest atop even earlier Roman structures. Every June 24th, San Giovanni’s annual boat procession transforms the lake into a vibrant celebration. Locals and visitors adorn their boats with flowers, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
Secret tunnels used by Mussolini during World War II add a touch of mystery to the area.
Regenerate and Rejuvenate at Villa Musa
At Villa Musa, you can immerse yourself in a truly revitalising experience. Enjoy the outdoor pool overlooking the lake, the private sauna or a massage. Never underestimate the therapeutic power of a good massage to bring you back in harmony with the world. For those who love surprises or seek emotional experiences, we have compiled some unforgettable experiences.
Don’t miss out on the gourmet experiences and activities at Villa Musa. Start your day with a delicious breakfast prepared by your private chef using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Extend the culinary journey by enjoying personalised lunch and dinner services, all crafted to perfection.
For a hands-on experience, join the chef’s cooking classes to learn new recipes and culinary tips. To make your stay even more memorable, set sail on an exclusive boat tour, exploring the surrounding waters in style and comfort.
Interview: Alessia Peverelli, Maison MUSA Manager
What is one unique aspect of Villa Musa?
With its modern and elegant style, Villa Musa is strategically located to ensure the privacy of guests while enjoying a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Venus and the villages bordering the lake, such as Bellagio. The fine finishes, together with the infinity pool and jacuzzi, make it the ideal place to create memories.
How do you assemble and manage a team of staff to maintain such a high standard of luxury and service?
Young, dynamic and charismatic with a surgical eye for perfection, they create a team capable of satisfying the most difficult of demands always with a smile.
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What inspired the architectural design of Villa Musa?
The design of Villa Musa drew significant inspiration from the luxury and tranquil values embodied by the MUSA brand. Firstly, the villa emphasises exclusive privacy and elegance. The use of natural elements, yet in keeping with the local, traditional Italian lake architecture, the design blends seamlessly with the stunning landscape of Lake Como. The focus on wellness and relaxation, evident in Musa’s spa and beauty offerings, is also integrated into Villa Musa’s spaces, creating an atmosphere of pure relaxation. Furthermore, the sophisticated aesthetic and attention to detail echo the brand’s dedication to artistry in hospitality, enhancing every moment spent there. Lastly, Villa Musa, like its hotel counterpart, is designed to offer unparalleled views and a deep connection to the lake, celebrating the natural beauty and serenity of the region.
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What’s a benefit of the villa’s location that is completely unexpected or quirky?
The villa isn’t located by the lake but in Via Pola in Azzano. This street is part of the Lake Como Greenway path and is famous for being a natural area with some beautiful villas, but also with green meadows and grazing horses. The location of the villa allows for breathtaking and panoramic views of Lake Como: you can admire from above the Balbianello peninsula, Bellagio, the other side of the lake, and Tremezzina.
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Is there a signature feature that holds special significance to you?
Among all the features of a home, the one that holds the most significance for us is the presence of a fireplace. The fireplace symbolises warmth, familiarity, and togetherness—qualities that resonate deeply with our values at MUSA. For us, familiarity and uniqueness are the hallmarks of our brand. Many of our guests often express that their experience with us feels like coming home, creating a sense of belonging that is truly special. They describe their time in our spaces as unique, akin to being with family. This is why the fireplace is more than just an architectural feature; it embodies the spirit of connection and the heartfelt moments we strive to cultivate at MUSA.
Are there any upcoming projects planned to enhance the property or the guest experience?
In November 2024, a sauna was built in the pool area of Villa Musa so we can enhance our guests’ experience even more.
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What is the trademark of Villa Musa?
Our trademark lies in making our guests feel like part of our family. We prioritise genuine connections, engaging with each individual to understand their unique needs and desires. This personal interaction allows us to offer highly tailored services that truly resonate with our guests.
By fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, we create experiences that go beyond the ordinary, ensuring that every guest feels valued and understood. This commitment to personalisation is what sets us apart and embodies the essence of our brand.
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What insights have you gained from working at Villa Musa?
Working at Villa Musa has taught me that our guests’ desires are often infinite and unpredictable, frequently surfacing at the last minute. It’s essential to be prepared by anticipating their requests. For instance, transportation can be a significant challenge around Lake Como. I always advise our guests to reserve a driver or ensure they have a car during their stay. This way, they can fully enjoy their experience at Villa Musa without the stress of navigating transportation issues. By being proactive, we help our guests make the most of their time with us, ensuring a seamless and memorable stay.
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How do you handle guests’ requests for additional services?
To handle guest requests for additional services we manage, we follow a structured process to ensure top-tier service and a personalised experience. We promptly acknowledge and clarify all details of the request with the guest, ensuring we fully understand their needs and desires. We work with high-quality service providers to confirm the availability of the requested services and ensure they meet the villa’s standards. Based on request, we offer customised options that align with the guests’ preferences. We provide a detailed quote, including service timelines and any additional conditions. Once the proposal is approved, we handle logistics, ensuring the service is delivered on time, while keeping guests updated. After the service has been provided, we follow up to ensure guests’ satisfaction and gather any valuable feedback. This approach guarantees that every request is managed with the utmost professionalism, contributing to a memorable stay at our villa.
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Can you share the most memorable feedback or review you’ve received from guests?
The most memorable feedback came from a guest who expressed deep gratitude for our team’s dedication and attention to detail, from logistics to catering. She highlighted a moment when Alessia, a key member of our team, joined the guests for an impromptu dance during the retreat, bringing joy and warmth to the experience. The guest’s kind words about the personal touches, like Amanuel’s playlist during dinner, and the overall effort of the Villa MUSA team made this feedback truly unforgettable.
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Are there any nearby events for which Villa Musa is a great accommodation option?
The Villa Musa is an excellent option for guests attending events, especially weddings. Its proximity to Villa del Balbianello and Villa Balbiano, a popular wedding venue, makes it an ideal choice for accommodating family and friends. The villa offers a luxurious and private setting, perfect for those looking to combine the event with a relaxing and exclusive stay. Additionally, the spacious layout and high-end amenities make it suitable for intimate pre-wedding preparations or small private gatherings.
What dish do you crave the most at Villa Musa?
Typically, the most requested dishes from our guests are quite simple, such as a plate of pasta or some high-quality cheeses. Our guests love Italian cuisine, and they often seek out straightforward, authentic flavours. There’s something special about these simple dishes that resonate with our guests, evoking a sense of comfort and familiarity. At Villa Musa, we take pride in delivering these genuine culinary experiences that highlight the beauty of Italian food in its most uncomplicated form.
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From your perspective, what would a perfect day or weekend look like for a guest at Villa Musa?
A perfect day or weekend at the villa would be designed to offer a blend of relaxation, luxury, and curated experiences that showcase the beauty of the location. Here is what a perfect stay might look like: The day begins with yoga or pilates by the infinity pool, followed by a gourmet breakfast prepared by our private chef. After breakfast, guests can embark on a private boat tour, discovering stunning views and beautiful villas on the lake. Stop for lunch in one of the great restaurants on the lake or for a visit to Bellagio. In the afternoon, the guests can unwind by the villa’s private infinity pool and then enjoy a dinner with a private chef, tasting local plates, served either on the terrace or in the villa’s elegant dining area, accompanied by fine Italian wines. On the second day, following a leisurely breakfast, the guest can relax with a customised massage or treatment. Then they can take part in a cooking class with our chefs, learning to prepare traditional dishes using seasonal ingredients, followed by lunch with their creations. In the afternoon, a nice visit to the gardens of Villa Balbianello. Stop at the hotel to enjoy a pre-dinner drink at Bar GAIA, followed by a fine dining dinner at restaurant ROTEO.
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How do you infuse local culture and traditions into the guest experience at your villa?
To infuse local culture into a guest’s experience, we focus on providing authentic and immersive activities that allow guests to connect with our traditions. During cooking classes, our guests can learn about our culinary history, while during the boat tours, our captain will tell them all about our local culture, traditions, and history. Our local staff as well as our cuisine made from local and seasonal products allows our guests to experience our culture and tradition.
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If you could offer guests one piece of advice for making the most of their stay, what would it be?
Our strong recommendation is always to book services in advance, especially when it comes to transportation and boat tours, particularly for groups of more than four people. The demand for these services around Lake Como is incredibly high, while the availability is limited.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it’s crucial to plan ahead. By organising your transportation and activities in advance, you can avoid any last-minute complications and fully embrace the beauty of Lake Como. We want our guests to have the best possible experience, and early reservations are key to making that happen.
What are the most interesting experiences that you can offer to guests?
Here are some of the most interesting experiences we can offer to guests: private boat tours, cooking classes, wellness treatments, a private chef for special lunches and dinners, art and painting workshops, seaplane flight experiences, and more!
Ready to dive deeper!
Let’s talk!
Schedule a personalised video call with our team to discuss your questions and explore how we can help you further. We look forward to connecting with you!
