BOTTONERA casa vacanza

Who would have thought that the Alpine-est of all Alpine villages was hidden just north of Lake Como, right on the Swiss border? Time seems to have stopped in Chiavenna, in northern Lombardy: breathtaking natural wonders meet historic monuments and astound with their sheer magnificence –against the backdrop of mighty mountain giants. In the heart of the enchanted old town with its narrow alleys is the Bottonera Casa Vacanza. Just a stone's throw from the pedestrian zone – centrally located and yet pleasantly quiet. Carolin and Timo were so enchanted by the charm of the little town that they returned there again and again. They first bought a half-ruined stone cottage on the hillside near Chiavenna and rebuilt it as their home. Two years later they turned an old, empty townhouse into the four unique lodgings Ledù, Prata, Quadro, and Stella. They put their hearts and souls into restoring the building, and the love is tangible as soon as you set foot over the threshold. The timeless design combines the Alpine coziness and Mediterranean flair of this unique location. A book on the bedside table, a tree of life on the wall, cacti and well-dosed Italian design between wooden ceilings and parquet flooring all invite you to indulge. Some of the furniture was even designed and produced locally. The love for this (still) untouched Alpine valley is everywhere! That the hosts share this treasure is a gift to all travelers! 

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• A new surprise around every corner: each of the four apartments has its own amazing character: Ledù on the first floor and Prata on the second have a charming open-room design; Quadro, the maisonette apartment, extends over the first and second floor and offers plenty of niches for some quiet time; Stella, the attic apartment enchants with panoramic windows and impressive mountain views.
• All apartments are equipped with air conditioning and a sunny south-facing balcony or terrace.
• The floating LAGO double beds seem like magic; sweet dreams are guaranteed.
• Handpicked designer pieces such as retro SMEG refrigerators or the Curve Bench by Riva 1920 add striking accents to the otherwise subdued interior.
• The Leya Swingseat is pure dolce vita: the perfect place to relax with a book and occasionally look up to enjoy the fabulous view.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Those looking for inspiration or tips for the region will find everything on the free tablets that come with every apartment – or before you get there with the practical guest app.
• Chiavenna impresses with its extensive natural surroundings and rocky landscape (both can be admired in the Parco delle Marmitte dei Giganti) as well as a charming old town – the heart of every culture lover will beat faster at the sight of the noble 16th-century palazzi or the imposing monastery of San Lorenzo with its medieval baptismal font.
• Strolling along Via Dolzino, Chiavenna's pedestrian zone, you will discover countless small stores far from the big shopping malls (plan plenty of time for this).
• Enjoy excellent regional food in one of the Crotti, for which Chiavenna is famous across all of Italy.
• It’s a bit uphill, but a pleasant walk will take you to the picturesque village of Pianazzola; continue a little further along the old mule tracks to Dalò, where you will be rewarded with a view you’ll never forget.
• The Acqua Fraggia waterfalls in Piuro are a natural spectacle not to be missed, especially in springtime.
• In summer you can take a refreshing dip in numerous natural swimming spots.
• Around Valchiavenna there are unlimited outdoor activities at any time of the year: hiking, mountain biking, climbing, canyoning, skiing or snowshoeing; water sports enthusiasts get their fill at Lake Como. 
• Children under 2 stay free of charge at the Bottonera, baby beds or high chairs are available for a flat fee.
• The minimum stay is two to five nights, depending on the season.