**Small group, shared with others** (if by Venetian water taxi, then 12 to 14 passengers; if by the new larger limo boat, then up to 30 passengers (inside the villa divided in smaller 15 people group per guide)).
Total duration of this experience: Approximately 2h 30min
Approximately 1h on the boat, 1,5h stop at Villa del Balbianello to visit the villa and the garden.
Departure: Varenna town, private Dock 2 of "Taxi Boat Varenna" in the old town
Board the boat in Varenna and cruise across the lake and past Cadenabbia, Villa Carlotta, Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Park Teresio Olivelli, Villa Sola Cabiati and Lenno. Boat cruise is a mix of faster and slower navigation - captain gives brief commentary on sights seen along the way. Approximately 30 minutes until we reach half-way of the route and disembark at Villa del Balbianello (known for being not only a stunning villa rich of history, but also a set for movies, like Star Wars and James Bond's Casino Royale)
Arrive at Villa del Balbianello, where a professional English-speaking guide will show you the interiors of the house, revealing its secrets - group of 15 people per 1 guide. After the guided tour, explore the villa’s stunning garden at your own pace.
After your visit (total duration of the stop approx. 1h 30 min), board the boat again and cruise back to Varenna, passing by San Giovanni, Loppia, Villa Melzi, Bellagio, and Fiumelatte. Boat cruise is a mix of faster and slower navigation - captain gives brief commentary on sights seen along the way. Approximately 30 minutes from Balbianello to Varenna.
If you prefer, you can choose to end your tour in Bellagio instead of Varenna - choosing this option you will disembark in Bellagio sooner than the rest of the group and will miss the last part of the boat cruise (Bellagio, Fiumelatte, Varenna).
Price: This is a package including the boat tour and entrance to Villa del Balbianello and its garden - you do not need to purchase any tickets separately.
**Accessibility and Safety Notice:**
Boarding and disembarking the boat require agility and physical fitness. This tour is NOT recommended for individuals with limited mobility, including (but not limited to):
- Wheelchair users
- Individuals using crutches or walkers
- Elderly passengers or anyone who may struggle with balance, moving quickly on steps
- People of larger size whose mobility may be limited
Boarding may involve uneven surfaces steps, movement of the boat, posing a risk to both passengers and crew assisting them.
The captain reserves the right to refuse boarding if a passenger does not meet these requirements. No exceptions to the cancellation and penalty policy apply and no refund will be issued in such cases.
**Passengers who do NOT meet mobility requirements are advised NOT to book this tour.**