Villa Cipressi Christmas Garden: Where the Magic of Christmas Embraces Lake Como
There’s a corner of Lake Como that, as winter arrives, dresses itself in pure enchantment.
Starting from November 1st, the Botanical Garden of Villa Cipressi in Varenna opens its gates for the first time during the winter season, transforming into a realm of wonder: welcome to the Villa Cipressi Christmas Garden — an experience between dream and reality.
Wandering through the terraced gardens, where centuries-old cypresses and Mediterranean plants overlook the shimmering waters, becomes a true sensory journey. As twilight falls, thousands of lights awaken like fallen stars, and every path comes alive — illuminated forests, playful elves and angels, cascades of twinkling lights that lead down to the iconic Infinity Gate, where the landscape and the spirit of Christmas merge into one.
Children can visit the Gnomes’ House, write their letters to Santa Claus and drop them into his special mailbox, while adults will be swept away by the warm, fairytale atmosphere, surrounded by festive music and the sweet scent of holiday treats.
The Veranda Bar will turn into a delightful winter bakery — a cozy corner where you can rediscover childhood joy among fluffy doughnuts, soft marshmallows, steaming cups of hot chocolate, and a variety of sweet and savory delicacies. The perfect stop to warm up and take in the sparkling lake view just beyond the windows.
Promoted by the Municipality of Varenna and brought to life by R Collection Hotels — the group that lovingly restored Villa Cipressi in 2018 — the Christmas Garden offers visitors a new way to experience this timeless place in winter: between the golden colors of autumn foliage and the elegant evergreens of cypress, oak, and magnolia trees.
From November 1st, 2025, to January 6th, 2026, Villa Cipressi Christmas Garden will be open Thursday to Sunday, from 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM (last entry at 7:30 PM).
Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the entrance.