In the picturesque town of Colico facing Lake Como, an hour-and-a-half drive away from Milan, there is an extraordinary, almost 100-year-old house owned by the Italian Pezzini family.
Three generations lived in this house until it was abandoned twenty years ago to then become a neglected junk-filled family storage space.
Five years ago, Sharon Gur (an Israeli who moved to Colico and documents her experiences in the captivating blog Pasta Every Day), and her partner Pietro Pacini, the original owners’ great-grandson – both architects – began to clear and renovate the house in order to make it their home.
The couple did most of the renovations themselves, little by little, from replacing plumbing to furnishings, with a particular emphasis on reusing any item or material they deemed appropriate. For example, the sewing machine legs are now a piece of furniture holding up the sink, and old planks of wood are now being used as a dining room table. The style this has created is modern yet eclectic, combining the history of the old house with items of personal value for Sharon and Pietro.
The immaculate garden plays a central, active role in the household: the fruit and vegetables growing in the garden serve as a notable culinary inspiration, and many created delicacies are centered on its produce. This is all documented on Sharon’s blog, and the enticing photos she posts from somewhere in Colico have us licking our lips. Luckily, she posts the recipes as well…
The house is situated right in the center of town, walking distance from the central, lively piazza – a perfect location with an array of restaurants, coffee shops, shops, weekend markets, and a short walk to the beaches. Colico’s summers boast the lake and the warm sun, while its winter boasts snow, ski resorts, and proximity to Switzerland.
And why are we telling you about all this luxury? Because now there’s a vacant apartment on the house’s first floor, the floor whose beautiful pictures are featured in our magazine. It’s perfect for a couple (or a couple with a child) seeking a unique, indulgent spot for a relaxing, authentic Italian vacation.
Photos By: Sharon Gur, Pasta every day
And for dessert, this clip that introduces all that Colico has to offer will have you booking tickets for Milan, or at least making reservations for one of the Italian restaurants we have here in Israel.
For details, email Sharon directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and don’t forget to say ciao from us.
