Perfect for gatherings or special events, Villa Porto has facilities equivalent to a small hotel – but one that’s exclusively yours. The villa is found within parkland-style gardens starring ginkgo, red acacia and bamboo trees, plus an olive grove. Amid it all, you’ll find an outdoor-dining pergola and the combination tennis, volleyball and soccer field. Inside, looking towards Lake Como, tempts an 18-metre heated pool, plus a terrific gym. And attending to your every need are staff, including – supported by extensive kitchen gardens – a very flexible chef.

Built for an American admiral in 1901, the pink-walled house now blends traditional and contemporary Italian design. Every communal space – especially the two formal dining rooms – is elegant yet homely, as are the air-conditioned sleeping quarters (two convertible to twins), spaciously split across all four floors and accessible via elevator. Each has lake or garden views and flatscreen TVs with Netflix and Amazon Prime. Only the master suite boasts a king-sized round bed, walk-in wardrobe and double, lake-facing balcony, however. The villa’s cottage annexe has another bedroom if needed.

As if all that isn’t enough, there’s Porto’s sought-after, central-Como location: in upmarket Tremezzina, gazing over the lake to beautiful Bellagio (served by ferry). Numerous activities can be arranged, from private cruises or truffle-hunting to horse-riding, hiking, cycling or golf at Menaggio. Fashion capital Milan is within an hour’s drive, and terrific vineyards are closer still.