Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself? 

We, Daniela (49) and Alv (60), live by a lakeside (Ammersee) near Munich. Together with our six children (aged 14 to 29, three girls and three boys), we form the most wonderful patchwork family! Alv is a well-known interior designer (and carpenter), and Daniela, with her skills in marketing, organisation, and hospitality – together the perfect couple and team.

We would love to share a bit about you as a person with our customers. Would you like to tell us more about yourself? For example: your interests, free time activities, work, family, holidays? 

Design, minimalism, a healthy lifestyle, and water-sports are not just hobbies for us – they are part of who we are and our way of life. Good and reduced design and lifestyle are part of our everyday life. It makes us feel free. The Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi – simplicity, imperfection, and inspiration through nature – has become our guide. At Ca' dei Mongi, we have brought this philosophy to life with all our passion and attention to detail. We love a healthy lifestyle, movement in every way, and water-sports – especially kitesurfing. This passion also often guides our travels. 

When and in what way did this property come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

During our search for a small olive grove for our Oldtimer Airstream caravan at Lake Garda, we discovered the house of the Mongi family. It was love at first sight. A charming little Italian town nearby, warm-hearted people, and two ancient stone houses that we reimagined with all our experience in architecture and craftsmanship into a place full of soul. 

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your property?

In the renovation process, we stayed true to working with authentic and natural materials, earthy tones, quiet nuances, and a deep respect for tradition. We redesigned many things in a way that highlights the beauty that was already present. We made the hidden beauty shine even brighter through the spirit of wabi-sabi. 

On a personal level, what makes your property truly special for you? Any standout memories or moments that make it dear to your heart? 

When we first arrived here, within minutes we knew – THIS IS IT! This is the place we want to make our home for the rest of our lives. With the best 180° view over Lake Garda and the entire eastern shore!

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property? 

What makes this place unique is its soul and the feeling of magic once you arrive. Calming, quiet, natural, inspiring. We believe that it can heal – gently, quietly, profoundly. It is not about higher, faster, further, but about returning to oneself. We look forward to sharing this experience with all who come here and are ready to let this place touch them.

Which part of your property do you love the most, and why?

It's the master bedroom that takes you into a holy peacefulness. Super cosy within, and with a view that takes you far to the other side of the lake outside – all at once. Here, nothing is too much, and every piece tells a story. It’s wonderful to find rest for the night and wake up feeling safe.

What makes the location where your accommodation is located unique and special?

You are close to the lakeside of Lake Garda (a 10-minute drive by car) and within the lively Dolce Vita of a small Italian town, but the place itself is surrounded by nature and tranquillity, with the most spectacular view ever.
Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?
100% bio-natural pool and spring water from the mountain.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests?

The feelings that arise once you are here are meant to be shared because this will make not only individuals but also our world better! We want to share this way of life and this place with everyone open to this inspiration. The architecture and interiors here at Ca’ dei Mongi awaken our senses and reconnect us with what truly matters: being able to feel – ourselves, others, and nature. In today’s restless world, this has become one of our greatest needs. Also – it's special to be able to stay in the home of an architect! 

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property? 

You come here to stay. Of course, you can drive down to the lakeside, eat in great Italian restaurants, take a boat trip, or visit wineries – but the best part of it all is being able to let go and rest in the shade of the olive trees, eat fresh figs from the tree, drink water from the spring, jump in the pool, stroll around, light a fire at night, and watch the astonishing lights on the other side of the lake – better than any TV!

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features or characteristics make it a one-of-a-kind experience for guests? 

The reduced and minimal architecture, yet the very high quality of all materials, accessories, and appliances (Gaggenau refrigerator and steam oven, PITT gas cooking, specially designed cutlery, handmade dishes, materials and linen from France, Gessi fittings in all bathrooms and outdoors...). High-end, but in a different way – far away from catalogue and magazine aesthetics.

Can you share the best compliment you've received from a guest?

A good friend came up here for the first time and started crying – she was so overwhelmed by the beauty... no words needed to be added.

The best compliment one could get. What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay in your accommodation? 

We hope they will understand some of the wabi-sabi philosophy. We hope they will be able to feel what we mean by being able to breathe more deeply when feeling the magic here. We hope to inspire them for their everyday life.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their holiday? Your valuable tips will be featured on your accommodation page!

• Taking a road trip on a Vespa to visit one of the many wineries in the region
• Taking a hike to Monte Baldo (you can also take the cable car from Malcesine or Prada)
• Visiting picturesque old towns (the ghost village Campo is also close by)
• Enjoying the lake by renting a boat and going to the other side to have the best ice cream in Gargnano
• Taking it slow and enjoying many good restaurants (from simple Italian cuisine to even a Michelin-starred restaurant directly in Brenzone)
• Renting bikes for a tour to Torri del Benaco to visit one of the Italian markets Taking a ride up to San Zeno di Montagna to eat pasta with truffle from Monte Baldo
• Visiting Verona (1-hour drive) and maybe even seeing an opera in the Arena