Little Gem No. 125 | Studio Lago Maggiore

Sarvie and Jasper are real estate developers who help international buyers find, acquire and restore historic homes in Italy. Their work has brought them to Lesa, a lakeside town between Arona and Stresa, where they have restored two apartments in historic buildings. Lo Studio is a nearly 300-year-old property that they renovated in 2023, retaining its Italian character while introducing modern comforts.

The 60-square-metre apartment is a short walk from the lake and the centre of Lesa. From the balcony, you can look out across Lake Maggiore towards Arona, while the private garden offers a quieter place to spend time outdoors. Inside, there is a living and dining area with a wood-burning stove, a separate bedroom and a spacious bathroom with a soaking tub for two.

Sarvie and Jasper live nearby and are usually available to welcome guests personally, meet for a coffee or share recommendations for exploring the area.

The Space

Lo Studio is arranged around a living and dining area, a kitchen, a bedroom and a large bathroom. The kitchen is equipped with a Smeg oven and fridge, an induction hob and a DeLonghi espresso machine, with coffee and tea provided. A wood-burning stove adds character to the living and dining area, while high-speed fibre-optic internet and a washer-dryer provide the practical comforts for a longer stay.

The bedroom has a wardrobe and a letto matrimoniale, an Italian double bed, and opens onto the balcony. The balcony is also accessible from the kitchen and looks towards Lake Maggiore, with Arona visible in the distance.

The bathroom has a view of the garden and a soaking tub for two, a welcome detail after a day spent walking by the lake or exploring the surrounding hills.

Outdoor Area

A private, gated garden extends the living space outdoors. There is a dining area for meals outside, a covered porch and a garden sink, as well as a small additional bathroom. It is a pleasant place for a leisurely breakfast or dinner after a day exploring the lake.

Location

Lo Studio is in Lesa, a peaceful town on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, between the livelier centres of Arona and Stresa. The lakefront, restaurants and swimming spots are around a 15-minute walk away, while the train station is just five minutes on foot.

Lesa has a village atmosphere and a good choice of places to eat within walking distance. For a change of scene, Arona is known for its shopping and evening life, while Stresa is the starting point for boat trips to the Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre.

What Makes It So Special

Lo Studio combines the character of an old Italian building with the privacy of a garden and the convenience of a small lakeside town. It is a place for two people who enjoy being close to nature without feeling remote: mornings on the balcony, a walk down to the water, lunch in Lesa and evenings back in the garden.

There is plenty to do nearby, whether you prefer swimming at one of the lake's public access points, hiring a boat from the harbour at Solcio or exploring the walking trails along the shore. Sporting Lesa offers a swimming pool, gym, tennis and padel courts, and the town hosts local events throughout the summer. The Thursday farmers' market along the lake is another reason to spend a morning in town.

Restaurants within walking distance include Batti Paolo, listed in the Michelin Guide, as well as Al Camino, Il Rapanello and La Riva. And when you feel like exploring further, both Arona and Stresa are around ten minutes away by car or train.

Price Indication

Prices start from €120 per night from September to May and €150 per night from June to August. A minimum stay of three nights applies. A €50 cleaning fee applies per stay.

Bookings

For availability, more information or to book directly, click the Availability button above. It will take you straight to the owners.

Nearest train station

Lesa train station is approximately a five-minute walk from the apartment, with trains to Milan taking around one hour. 

Nearest Airport

Milan Malpensa Airport is approximately a 45-minute drive away.