Villa Carlotta and Gardens at Tremezzo in northern Italy were built by the Milanese marquis Giorgio Clerici in 1690 and has been passed down through several generations of families since.
Set in a stunning location between the lake and the mountains with views across Lake Como this eight hectare garden is a delight to visit.
The original gardens were more park-like in style, but in the early 19th Century new owners transformed some of the park into a romantic garden with the addition of flower beds and other features.
The Villa is full of historical interest but it is the gardens that are the main attraction being are considered to be a very good example of Italian Baroque gardens.
They are characterized by their elaborate terraces, ornate fountains, and abundant greenery.
The main terrace of the garden is lined with tall cypress trees and overlooks the lake, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the shimmering azure waters of Lake Como.
The Garden of the Nymphs is a small, circular garden that is filled with flowers and plants that are associated with nymphs and other mythical creatures.
The Garden of the Zodiac is another notable feature of the Villa Carlotta gardens and it is dedicated to the 12 zodiac signs and the elements that they represent.
The Villa Carlotta gardens are also home to an impressive collection of plants and flowers, many of which are native to the region. Visitors will find a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers including magnolias, camellias, roses, and azaleas.
There are also several greenhouses on the property, which are used to grow exotic plants and flowers that are not typically found in the region.
The gardens are particularly renowned for their display of rhododendrons and azaleas during spring.
If you can't be there in spring the gardens are still worth a visit, with the century old cedars and sequoias, the old variety of camellias, the bamboo garden, the rock garden and fern valley to explore.
Whatever time of year, enjoy a coffee in the Cafeteria and gaze at the magnificent lake.
