THE STORY - BUILDING A DREAM - PRIVATE VILLA ON LAKE COMO

Believe it or not – but this is how the property looked in 2016.

The property dates back 300 years but is build on, for the area a typical crotto, from the 14th century. The crotto was originally used by the locals for food and wine storage.

First renovated in 2017 and meticulously maintained ever since, the villa now includes a spacious covered outdoor area, perfect for relaxing and dining.

Owned by Danish lighting designer Cathrine Axel and photographer Erik Bjørn, Villa dell’Orso is part of a larger Italian adventure. The couple, originally from Copenhagen, moved to Italy in 2022 and have since embraced a new way of life.

In addition to Villa Crotto, they manage Villa dell’Orso in Piemonte and recently took on a 620 m² farmhouse renovation project in Tuscany, near Siena, transforming it into a luxury retreat.

Cathrine and Erik’s love for Italy extends back to Copenhagen, where they founded the Nebbiolo Winebar, bringing Italian wines to Danish audiences. Together, they maintain their Italian properties and cherish visits from their four adult children, who still reside in Denmark but eagerly join them in “Sunny Italy.