The Italian Lakes boast a Hollywood-like lustre, and you may feel like you've been cast in a movie the moment you step onto the balcony attached to any number of villas in Italy. Before you start quoting "Ocean's 11" or "Charlie's Angels," you may want to take a look at the pristine body dotted with bobbing sailboats and leisure travelers who have nothing better to do than soak up the sun.

Situated along the Swiss-Italian border, the Lakes region boasts not only a spectacular landscape, but also what many travelers have come to expect in a luxury vacation: decadent food and wine. While staying in Lombardy, you'll have ample opportunities to indulge in the area's sophisticated multiculturalism, which combines influences from Austria, Spain, Germany and France, to create a perfect synthesis of traditions.

If you're looking for the most idyllic luxury rentals in the northern Italian region, here are some of the most stunning lakes:

Lake Maggiore

There is a luxury villa situated right on the western banks of Lake Maggiore, which sits right on the border of Switzerland and boasts both a bohemian and luxurious air. The peaceful lake town of Locarno, which is located on the northern tip of Maggiore, has perfect weather for just about the whole year, and with numerous Italian restaurants and gelato shops to choose from, you may find it hard to resist extending your rental vacation.

At Villa Adriana, you can take a walk through the large garden to gain access to an incredible view of Maggiore. If you're not in the mood to take the short trip to the water, you can just as easily jump into the on-site swimming pool, where you can swim a few laps before sipping on a glass of champagne. Plus, due to its proximity to the southern slopes of the Swiss Alps, this villa boasts incredible mountain views on a clear day.

Lake Como

Whether you're staying at luxury vacation rentals for a week or a month, you should set aside at least a few days to explore Lake Como. A number of villas are located along the shores of this deep blue body of water, which is best explored on a ferry or rented sailboat. In the village of Bellagio, visitors can eat a delicious meal right along the water at one of the many lakeside restaurants. If, on the other hand, they're up for a bit of an adventure, travelers can head to Ristorante Bilacus, which has charming views of the village as well as a traditional Italian menu.

For a taste of true decadence, you should consider staying at Maria Serena, which is literally perched right along the eastern shore of Lake Como. With six bedrooms and top-of-the-line interior designs, this luxurious villa is ideal for large families or vacationing girlfriends on a bachelorette getaway.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals?  Contact Villas of Distinction today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits your lifestyle.