Step onto your terrace and you’ll catch your breath. Views shimmer down to Lake Orta twinkling bewitchingly below; it looks even better from the infinity-edge swimming pool perched above your (almost) personal vineyard. The surroundings – private garden or terrace, BBQ and playground (both tucked discreetly away), shady trees and lavender-bordered pathways – of these hillside apartments mean you have to drag yourself away to explore local hikes, cycle rides, lakeside walks and pretty Orta. Built of local stone and timber on the site of a hamlet – romantic tower apartment remains – the low-rise buildings combine rustic simplicity with cool modernity, and a green footprint. The owners are passionate designers. Rooms are cool in whites and soft naturals, splashed with fun-coloured chairs. Sharply contemporary furnishings might include zinc-topped tables and heart-shaped mirrors. Kitchen areas gleam with chrome and tip-top equipment. Choose first-floor for open rafters; ground floor for pretty gardens. Evening aperitivi, on-hand local knowledge, 15-minute stroll to the village, rural peace – you’ll want for nothing.
La Darbia is a very special place to stay. The fabulous apartments, pool and gardens, the spectacular location and the wonderful people who own and look after you at La Darbia make for an incredible combination. There is luxury in lots of places in the world, but to find it where it has real heart is truly special. Perched on the hill above Lake Orta, the views across the lake are stunning. Perfectly functional as well as beautiful (we find it rare to achieve both!), our 2 bedroom garden apartment was superb for our family of 4 and the local area offered lots to enjoy. A wonderful week!