9 bedrooms villa, 900 m²

Ghiffa, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (province)

Lake Maggiore

On the serene western shores of Lake Maggiore, nestled among centuries-old trees and with direct access to the crystal-clear waters, stands Villa Ada Troubetzkoy — a masterpiece of 19th-century elegance and one of the most historically significant private estates in Northern Italy.

Commissioned in 1866 by Russian prince and botanist Pyotr Troubetzkoy, this estate is not simply a villa — it is a cultural landmark. A sanctuary of refinement, artistry, and aristocratic heritage, Villa Ada blends Russian nobility with the romantic sensibilities of Italian architecture, brought to life by the story of Troubetzkoy and his American wife, opera singer Ada Winans.

Together, they transformed this estate into an intellectual and artistic salon frequented by luminaries of their time — from U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant to celebrated actress Eleonora Duse, and from painters like Daniele Ranzoni to composer Alfredo Catalani. Their son, Paolo Troubetzkoy, born and raised in the villa, would go on to become one of the most acclaimed sculptors of his generation, with works now displayed in major museums across Europe.

Architectural Distinction and Modern Comfort
Villa Ada Troubetzkoy spans over 900 sqm across four levels, elegantly connected by both staircase and elevator. The main floor hosts an opulent living room with lake views, a formal dining hall, a music salon, library, and a spacious kitchen. A private sauna, laundry area, and service facilities ensure modern-day comfort is seamlessly integrated with historic charm.

Across the upper floors, the villa offers a total of nine bedrooms and ten bathrooms, thoughtfully distributed among several independent apartments, ideal for hosting guests or family with complete privacy. The master suite opens onto a spectacular 90 sqm terrace offering panoramic views over Lake Maggiore.

Every space in the residence is enriched with period details: frescoed ceilings, hand-carved marble fireplaces, intricate moldings, and original wrought iron balconies.

A Botanical Estate Unlike Any Other
The villa is enveloped by an extraordinary 23,000 sqm private botanical park, established by the prince himself, who introduced exotic species and rare camellias to the region — a collection that would later influence the landscape culture of Piedmont.

Among the highlights: a historic winter garden, once an orangerie and lemon house, now restored as an enchanting retreat with a fireplace and traditional wood-fired oven. The estate’s grounds also include a private beach, an extremely rare amenity on Lake Maggiore, as well as four private boat moorings in the adjacent marina.

Where Prestige Becomes Personal
Few properties in Europe offer this rare confluence of historical gravitas, architectural refinement, and lakeside serenity. Villa Ada Troubetzkoy is not just a home — it is an heirloom of European culture, meticulously preserved and gently modernized for a new generation of discerning connoisseurs.

For those who seek not only excellence, but legacy — this villa awaits.