Apartment

Charming Lakefront Apartment, Breathtaking Lago Maggiore Views

Photo gallery for Charming Lakefront Apartment, Breathtaking Lago Maggiore Views

Walkway to Center of Village: 'Casa Barbara' is yellow house on the left
"Casa Barbara" - view from church square
Entry into open living room/dining area, open lake views
Living room with lakefront views and working fireplace
Dining table for 6 people, views of Lago Maggiore

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Fireplace
    Fireplace
  • Dryer
    Dryer

Explore the area

Map
Gerra Gambarogno, Ticino
  • Monte Verità
    24 min drive
  • Fondazione Monte Verita
    26 min drive
  • Ascona Beach
    31 min drive
  • Lugano (LUG-Agno)
    47 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Kitchen
Balcony
Dining Area

About this property

Charming Lakefront Apartment, Breathtaking Lago Maggiore Views

Enjoy all that Lago Maggiore has to offer from the comfort and tranquility of this lovely and perfectly located vacation home. 'Casa Barbara' is a two-story lakefront property in the heart of Gerra Gambarogno, a charming cobblestone village located on the eastern shore of the lake, only 3 kms from the Italian border and within 30 minutes of the popular tourist destinations of Ascona, Locarno and Lugano. Drive or take the train to Lake Como and Milan in just over an hour. The famous Italian farmers' markets in Cannobio and Luino are a ferry ride down the lake.

Situated directly on the beautiful shoreline of Lago Maggiore our 2 bedroom vacation home has magnificent views of the lake from all of the large west facing windows and overlooks the historic village church square on the east. Around the corner from the front door it is simply 10 steps down to the picturesque village beach (visible from both living room and master bedroom). A playground, soccer field, beach bar and second village beach with grassy lawn and creek are steps away. Within a two minute walk you will find the village grocery store (offering all the basics plus artisan breads, cheeses and fresh homemade pastas), our local restaurant, the ferry landing, bus stop and train station.

Upon opening the brightly painted front door you will go up a flight of steps to reach the entry hall and first floor of the home. Here you will find a spacious and open lake-facing living room/dining area. Two sets of French windows offer gorgeous views: palm trees lining the lake shore, swans and ferries crossing Lago Maggiore in all directions, the resort towns of Ascona and Locarno directly across on the opposite shore, and the snow-tipped southern foothills of the Alps in the background.

When you want to take a break from sightseeing, enjoy a film on the new 42' flat screen TV (w/ several English news channels), cozy up to the wood-burning fireplace in the living room or relax with a good book or your laptop (the apartment is equipped with free WiFi). With books in several languages, a variety of magazines, maps, local guides and extensive DVD library, the home is fully equipped for your entertainment and sightseeing needs. We have put together a comprehensive and regularly updated 'Local Info' binder that provides you with recommendations on special events, local sites, restaurants, wineries, museums and day trips. Available for your exclusive use are beach chairs, beach towels and picnic basket stocked with plates, glasses and silverware.

Also located on the first floor is the fully appointed kitchen and breakfast bistro table with French windows opening to the village church. A Nespresso machine is available for coffee drinkers along with a complimentary initial supply of Nespresso brand coffees. Also complimentary is an initial supply of bottled water, a variety of teas and basic condiments. Off the kitchen is a windowed half bathroom/laundry room with washer/dryer combo machine.

Continue up a flight of steps to the top floor where you will find both the master bedroom and second bedroom. The master bedroom looks out on glorious lake views and is filled with light from the French windows as well as an additional south-facing window above the built-in writing desk. The master bedroom is currently set up with a queen bed and two twin beds. Top quality linens, pillows, comfy duvets and blankets are all provided. A spacious wardrobe provides plenty of shelves, drawers, and hangers for your belongings.

Down the hallway from the master bedroom is a smaller bedroom facing the church and village & furnished with a bunk bed. Directly off this bedroom is a charming balcony with bistro table and 2 chairs, perfect for enjoying your espresso in the morning sun or a glass of wine at sunset after a long day of sightseeing.

The bathroom with single sink and shower over tub bath is fully stocked with amenities which include a pair of bathrobes, slippers, an abundance of quality towels, hairdryer, and deluxe shampoos, soaps & lotions.

As the owners of this vacation home, we want to welcome you to this beautiful and unique corner of Switzerland and we're committed to ensuring your absolute pleasure and comfort during your stay. We live directly next door and look forward to providing any assistance or information you may require.



Keywords: ferienwohnung Tessin, ferienwohnung Lago Maggiore, ferienwohnung Ticino, lakefront, sunny, beach, views, vacation home,couples, families, spacious

Property manager

Lisa Bruggink-Weis

Languages

Dutch, English, German, Italian

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Parking available
Mountain view

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Gambarogno

Located in Gambarogno, this apartment is on a lake. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Bolle di Magadino and Gambarogno Botanic Garden, while Parisi Valle Civic Museum and Ferroviario del Verbano Museum are cultural highlights. Locarno Funicular Station and Splash and Spa are also worth visiting. Kayaking and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and cave exploring nearby.
Map
Gerra Gambarogno, Ticino

What's nearby

  • Madonna del Sasso - 19 min drive
  • Casino Locarno - 21 min drive
  • Piazza Grande - 22 min drive
  • Old Town - 24 min drive
  • Ascona Beach - 31 min drive

Getting around

  • Pino Tronzano Station - 6 min drive
  • Lugano (LUG-Agno) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bar Muraccio - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Seven Easy - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Osteria Nostrana - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪Delta Beach Lounge - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪Eden Roc Lounge Bar - ‬24 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Charming Lakefront Apartment, Breathtaking Lago Maggiore Views pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Charming Lakefront Apartment, Breathtaking Lago Maggiore Views?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Charming Lakefront Apartment, Breathtaking Lago Maggiore Views?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Charming Lakefront Apartment, Breathtaking Lago Maggiore Views located?

Situated on a lake, this apartment building is 2 mi (3.3 km) from Gambarogno Botanic Garden and within 6 miles (10 km) of Casa Ghisler and St. Charles Church. Bolle di Magadino and Parisi Valle Civic Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 53 out of 54 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 54 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 54 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 54 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 54 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Anne H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Toller Urlaub!!!
Super Ferienwohnung, tolle Lage und Aussicht, sehr nette Vermieterin, jederzeit wieder!!!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ines H., Bayern

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wundervoll und angenehm ruhiger Urlaub
Wir hatten eine wunderschöne Zeit in dem Appartement und Lisa ist eine bezaubernde Gastgeberin, die jederzeit hilfsbereit war. Der Ausblick auf den See ist herrlich und die ruhige Lage und Umgebung perfekt zum Erholen.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Toller Aufenthalt in sehr schöner Lage und toller Gastgeberin.
Wir waren 6 Personen. Genügend Platz. Der See in 1 min Entfernung einfach super. Auch Eine Anreise und Aufenthalt ist ohne Auto problemlos möglich. Viele Bus und Zugverbindungen. Vielen Dank an Lisa für die tolle Betreuung ung die schöne Unterkunft.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anita E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Einfach bezaubernd
Sehr erholsam. Fantastisch. Ideal für Familien. Wir hatten alles was wir brauchten. Es hätte nicht besser sein können.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christoph M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Top-Ferienwohnung, super nette Gastgeberin.
Für uns als Familie hat alles super gepasst. Top Lage, alles sehr sauber, super nette Gastgeberin. Wir haben uns sehr wohl gefühlt und mussten uns um nichts kümmern.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tamara S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful, thoughtfully decorated, cozy and comforting décor with views and nearby beach
Amazing home with a friendly, warm and inviting host who lives next door. Thoughtfully decorated, cozy and comforting décor. Wonderful views from the main and top floors when you look out the windows. The lack of direct outside balcony or patio space lakeside was a bit confining but everything else made up for it. And, the beach was ten seconds away around the courtyard. We enjoyed swimming and hanging out on the beach and it was very private. Parking was easy and convenient yet at a cost. Easy access to groceries (15 minutes away) and Gerra was a good location to get to outside activities like bungee and canyoning which we did. We never figured out ferry or boat taxi but it was easy to drive to Ascona where we had dinner one evening. Our host went above and beyond to arrange a late night reservation at a nearby restaurant when we arrived late on a holiday and that was greatly appreciated. Fresh flowers on the dining table made us feel at home. I highly recommend this space.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lonneke R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful and inspiring stay
Warm and welcoming host Lisa. Very personal and kind. The house feels as your own. Very comfortable. Beautiful views, well equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, nice bathroom. Great surroundings, Lake, beach, mountains, cities. We loved every minute of our stay, even if we had some bad weather (april 2022).
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elisabeth B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ruhige Oase
Wunderschönes sehr gut ausgestattetes Haus am See.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Karin W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Einfach perfekt!
Die Unterkunft, ihre Lage und ihre bis ins Detail mit viel Geschmack und Liebe ausgewählte Ausstattung: alles war perfekt :-) Gleiches gilt für die überaus liebenswerte Gastgeberin! Problemlos erreichbar, immer hilfsbereit, freundlich und warmherzig. Wir waren rundherum begeistert! Lisa, thank you so much for your great and warmhearted hospitality. All of us hope to see you again. All the best – and very special greetings from Franklin ;-)
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Laura B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Simply Perfect
We can only say the best things about this apartment and its lovely host, Lisa. The location is perfect in the small village of Gerra, and the apartment directly overlooks the lake. There is are two small beaches nearby, as well as a small playground, so the kids were able to be outside playing on their own. Every comfort is accounted for and the kitchen is well stocked. We enjoyed several meals at „home,“ watching the sun go down behind the mountains across the lake. Lisa was always available and quick to deal with any questions we had. Overall this was one of our favorite apartments we have ever stayed at, and will definitely be planning a return visit. We left having discovered a new area and made some new friends!
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Beni H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Grandios!
Das Haus ist perfekt. Und genau so perfekt ist Lisa als Gastgeberin. Unschlagbar! Danke vielmals für diese wunderbare Woche.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christian K., Schweiz

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Das perfekte Ferienhaus in Gerra
Die Wohnung ist schön eingerichtet, für 4 Personen angenehm gross und sie bietet einen wunderbaren Ausblick auf den See. Die Wohnung hat keinen Balkon, aber grosse Fenstertüren. Der Strand ist direkt neben dem Haus. Lisa ist eine warmherzige und sehr aufmerksame Gastgeberin, die alles dafür tut, dass die Gäste unvergessliche Ferien verbringen können. Wir kommen gerne wieder!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rahel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sehr schön!
Wunderschöne Lage direkt am See, herzliche und zuvorkommende Vermieterin

10/10 Excellent

Tina E., Baden, Aargau

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfekt von A - Z
...ein wahrhaftig magischer Ort direkt am See...
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Ralph M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Refreshing lake breeze and beauty all around
This property is so perfect, right on the water, and with beautiful views onto the lake and beyond to the mountains in the distance. We enjoyed the proximity to the beach as well as a little store and parking close by. There is something here to suit everyone. The hosts are very accomodating people and everything went very smoothly. Thanks again for a perfect vacation!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Marie-Noëlle E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
cadre exceptionnel, hôtesse exceptionnelle et maison pleine de charme
la maison est très bien située avec une vue époustouflante sur le Lac Majeur. Calme et sérénité pour ce séjour dans une maison authentique, fonctionnelle et proche de la petite plage du village. Notre hôtesse Lisa était très avenante, discrète et source de très bonnes adresses de visites et de restaurants. Nous garderons un très bon souvenir de ce lieu magnifique.

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay
Lisa is amazing! We had such a lovely stay. The appartment was perfect , well equiped and confortable.

10/10 Excellent

Bill M.

Outstanding Lago Maggiore Apartment
We're just back from a wonderful stay at Casa Barbara - "charming lakefront" doesn't do it justice, it is the perfect property in Gerre, just right for the two of us (but it can sleep more). Lisa is an outstanding proprietor, full of local knowledge, tips and suggestions, and keeps the apartment wonderfully stocked with fruit, wine and snacks. We had a wonderful meal at Al Portico, steps away from Casa Barbara, and Lisa and her husband Frits know the owners, Iris and Pasquale, quite well. We knew we were in for a treat when we booked our stay, based on the description, location and previous reviews - the only question in our mind was why Casa Barbara hadn't received a review on VRBO for a few years, and the easy answer is that most of their guests are repeat visitors. After our stay we can easily see why - we hope to return, and soon!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Alex S.

Absolutly perfect stay in Gerra
We were a group of 6 friends from Zurich who stayed two nights in this beautiful home right on the lake. We could not have asked for anything more. Everything from the location to state of the home exceeded all of our expectations. We were especially delighted with the care and looking after of our host Lisa. We had an unforgettable experience and are already talking about planning our return.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Chantal D.

Perfect stay in Gerra
We were very familiar with Gerra Gamborogno, and rented the Casa Barbara for ten days this summer because our house nearby is too small to accommodate our whole family. We had seen the house from the lake and from long walks, and were delighted to see that it was just as charming inside as it is from the outside. Lisa has decorated the house very tastefully, and very thoughtfully included everything we could have possibly needed --- beach chairs and toys, cosmetics, cooking utensils, plates, enough coffee to recover from jetlag, etc.. She was so sweet to welcome us with flowers, fruit, and other treats. The main floor has a living-diningroom with floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to beautiful lake views. The kitchen is large, with a similar window opening into the small piazza below. (The refrigerator is the second-largest I've ever seen in Switzerland.) Upstairs, there is a small bedroom overlooking the piazza and a grand bedroom with lakefront views. The downstairs bathroom has a washing machine. Everything was very clean and in working order. There is a small grocery store a 5-minute walk away, and I would think most guests would want to have a car, since Gerra is a small village. Before we arrived, Lisa was very responsive, answering my myriad questions quickly via email. She greeted us upon arrival, and was just as lovely as we imagined. During our stay, she was very attentive, checking in on us via email and text message -- we felt very well-cared for, but at the same time, had absolute privacy. Overall, I highly recommend Casa Barbara without reservation! (June 2015)
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tamara R.

Bliss!
There are hardly words to describe the beauty and magic of this place. From the moment Lisa the owner opened the doors onto the lake I felt my mind and body transform. Returning back to myself. No place I would rather be than in this womb called Casa Barbara. As others have said Lisa makes all the difference. Her loving kindness is genuine and profound. She is an angel that walks this earth and brings so much joy to others. I feel honored to know her and grateful she was able to spend some time with us along with her husband Fritz. Very special people. You will find all you need here. Well stocked kitchen and laundry. But what you might not expect is that you may never want to leave the house. Once you're in …it gets a hold of you! Bravo!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Meagan C.

Fantastic apartment, beautiful setting, gracious host
Just returned from four amazing days at Casa Barbara. A wonderful apartment in a most beautiful, lakeside setting. We arrived to fresh cut flowers, prosecco, and chocolates left by the owner. All the little things that make renting easier were there, comfortable beds, nice linens, condiments, soaps, etc. A notebook provides great ideas for local dining and activities. There is even a selection of books and movies. In addition to being a wonderful host, the owner's enthusiasm for the area came through in countless suggestions for how to make our stay a memorable one. Overall, a fantastic experience.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Our second time better than the first!
We are always looking for something special to do over the Easter holiday. Labo Maggiore is just the thing. We fell in love with this place two years ago, and decided to try again. This time, was even better than the first time. The train now has a more frequent schedule, so it is a real option. The public transport system on, and around, the lake makes it very easy to do without a car. The villages on the lake are magical and the hiking is fantastic. Each time, we have had our dog, and everyone is very accommodating. Our biggest challenge is motivating to leave the apartment which has such lovely views of the lake and is so very cozy and inviting, it is delightful to spend all day reading and hanging around. We highly recommend this rental.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jody T., Forest, Virginia

A Charming Gem
Our week at Casa Barbara was perfect! Always apprehensive about renting the unknown, imagine our surprise when entering the apartment to find it immediately exceeded our expectations!! We were right on Lake Maggiore with amazing views!! The location in a small village and off the beaten path, but close to a bus stop and the train station, was just what we wanted! Our owner/hostess, Lisa, was generous with her attention to our requests and time! She had stocked the kitchen with everything we requested and more. Lisa was kind enough to make reservations for us at the local Italian restaurant, Al Portico. We ate there on two nights and were not disappointed. The restaurant was delightful and the food delicious! With Casa Barbara as our base, we made day trips to Ascona, Locarno, Bellinzona, Lugano, and Capalago/Riva San Vitale. It was a pleasure to return each evening…do some laundry, drink a glass of wine, and unwind from our busy days. We highly recommend Casa Barbara for a unique, picturesque, and quiet holiday.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Richard C., San Francisco, CA

Words Cannot Describe the Beauty
The minute you walk into the living room and see the view of Lake Maggiore from the French doors, you know that you have made the right choice. You have your own private villa with all the beauty and comfort that you could ever want. Lisa is an incredible hostess and anticipates your needs before you even think of them. She will be happy to answer all your questions, and even offers to make a grocery run if you arrive late on Saturday; after the stores close. Remember, stores and shops are closed throughout Switzerland on Sundays. If you want location, Casa Barbara is close to train, postal bus and the ferry boats that navigate the lake. My husband and I will return in a heart beat.

About the host

Hosted by Lisa Bruggink-Weis

Host profile image
Greetings from lovely Lago Maggiore! My name is Lisa and my husband and I have been living in Ticino on Lago Maggiore since 2002. After all these years we remain in awe of the area's beauty, charm and culture. I am American and a former resident of the Bay Area in California where I served as a Captain in the US Army followed by several years working in the wine industry for Robert Mondavi Winery. My passions are wine, food and travel and we are fortunate enough to be surrounded by all of these wonderful things here in Switzerland. My husband is Dutch and has been coming to Lago Maggiore for summer vacations since he was a child. We are happy to make our home here and even happier to open the doors of our guest homes to visitors who are eager to discover all the treasures that this special corner of the world has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you to Ticino and to helping you enjoy an unforgettable vacation experience.
Hoping to see you soon and wishing you safe and happy travels wherever the road takes you...
Buon viaggio! Lisa

Why they chose this property

What makes this property unique

Languages:

English, German, Italian, Dutch
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