The Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy Story: A Timeless Masterpiece on Lake Como

Nestled on the shimmering shores of Lake Como, Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy is more than just a residence; it is a story of passion, history, and meticulous restoration. We had the privilege of speaking with Pascal Cagni, the visionary behind the villa’s revival, about its origins, transformation, and what makes it one of the most exclusive ultra-luxury homes on the lake available for charter through LVH. 

We asked Pascal if he could describe Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy in just three words, what would they be? His answer, of course, was right on the money:

“Family, Heritage, and Innovation.” Pascal Cagni

The Eclectic History of a Russian Prince’s Villa

One of the first questions we at LVH ask when faced with such an amazing story of heritage and rebirth is, “How did you come to own the home, its origin, and the journey to its ultimate restoration?”

Pascal was only too eager to answer, as his own family tradition and history are indelibly linked to the area. The villa was originally built in the mid-19th century by Russian nobility, a time when Lake Como was becoming a retreat for European aristocracy. “When I discovered it in 2009, it was in ruins, divided among multiple owners, and had been left without proper maintenance for decades,” as Pascal relates. 

The restoration became a multi-year journey and a labor of love. He was determined to respect its eclectic history while integrating modern luxuries, making it a true family home. The villa is unique because it is the only one on the lake that enjoys sunlight until 9:30 pm during summer, offering spectacular sunsets every evening.

Lake Como’s One-of-a-Kind Villa

The recently published Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy, a culmination of the restoration project, shows the full history and passion of both Pascal and Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy. The hefty tome perfectly tells the full story of the architecture and history of the villa. The villa’s architecture is truly one-of-a-kind. Unlike the classic Palladian-style villas found on the lake, this estate has evolved through different eras, resulting in a fascinating blend of styles. 

Pascal was clear that while honoring these various design elements in exacting detail, he personally wanted to modernize the villa by adding state-of-the-art smart home technology. As a previous executive leader of Apple’s Europe, Middle East, India, and Africa (EMEIA) region for twelve years, he has unique expertise that was brought to bear in this area. “My experience at Apple helped create a seamless and intuitive user experience throughout the home,” states Pascal.

The villa features a 70-meter brutalist elevator–originally constructed in the 1920s–connecting the upper entrance to the lakeside. This exterior elevator was restored while integrating smart home systems, allowing full control over lighting, climate, and entertainment throughout the property through a custom-designed app.

A Hidden Winter Gem

While Lake Como and the villa are known as a summer retreat, the team at C4 Collections—the Cagni Family Villa collection—envisions the future of the villa as a year-round luxury playground. Pascal and the family have enjoyed the family home in every season and relate how winter in Lake Como is a hidden pleasure. As the summer tourism wanes, the area gets back to its local roots and offers a more subdued luxury experience.

Guests during the winter season can enjoy a private spa experience and simple relaxation, enjoying the lake in its winter glory. Lake Como is also a great jumping-off point for day excursions to world-class skiing in St. Moritz and Zermatt, as well as Milan’s cultural and sporting events, including the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympic events. This shift will redefine what it means to experience Como in the off-season.

Signature Experiences Await

“Every stay is tailored to the guest’s preferences, especially with elite partners such as LVH,” expresses Pascal. Whether it's an on-site private boat tour on the villa’s Riva Florida “Papilou,” a curated shopping experience with Milan’s top fashion houses, or VIP access to Como Football Club matches, the guest experience is paramount.

Together with LVH every moment is unforgettable. For the most discerning guests, the villa is designed for total privacy as well, making it a sanctuary for celebrities and ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking an escape. 

Expect Hospitality Excellence

One of the most important aspects of any guest experience with LVH is almost always the gastronomic experiences, including in- and out-of-home dining experiences, as well as a full range of services for small events for guests. When asked about the Villa’s hospitality specialties, Pascal was enthusiastic about the area’s passion for cultural Italian cuisine as well as world-class bespoke dining experiences.

“Our guests enjoy Michelin-level cuisine prepared by top chefs, using locally sourced ingredients,” says Pascal. The villa collaborates with exclusive restaurants and private chefs to create a range of experiences, from a casual lakeside breakfast to a formal candlelit dinner in the historic dining room or even private wine tastings that feature some of Italy’s finest vintages.

Unparalleled Lake Como Access

When asked how the villa’s location on Lake Como is different from other locations on the lake, the villa’s team was eager to point out its unrivaled setting, vantage point, and unique position. This is succinctly related by Pascal during his first trip to purchase the villa in 2009, as relayed in Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy:

Finally, it had what very few other houses have on Lake Como, a double aspect at shore level, facing southwest and northeast: “I had a panoramic view of Villa Pizzo, Villa d’Este, Cernobbio, and Villa Erba,” Pascal enthuses. From above, from the main entrance, there was a third aspect, a towering vista with a huge drop, giving the visitor the sensation of being surrounded by all the elements and conjuring up St. Augustine’s definition of memory holding in it the sky, the earth, and the water—ready to be “summoned” by Pascal!”  

Furthermore, the villa is a mere hour’s drive from Milan, 30 minutes from famed Lake Como cobblestoned-village Bellagio, and 20 minutes from the famed 20-acre gardens of Villa d’Este. The villa truly offers seamless access to cultural landmarks, golf clubs, the lake and exclusive venues. 

An Ultimate Luxury Experience

When discussing the villa and its vision of luxury for discerning guests, there was much to discuss with Pascal. From the cultural heritage and history of this famed villa to the careful restoration and curation of experiences and services of its current offerings, Villa Cagni truly stands out in the ultra-luxury market in Lake Como and Europe. 

That advantage lies in a few core pillars, states Pascal. “True luxury is about uniqueness, privacy, attention to detail, and exclusivity. Unlike many luxury villas that are managed like hotels, this is a private family-owned estate where every detail has been meticulously considered.” The villa offers handcrafted Italian marble, custom linens from Gentili Mosconi, and many more exquisite details too many to mention.

What cannot be measured is the exclusivity, seclusion, and privacy that elite clientele have come to expect and this is at the very heart of Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy. Combined with LVH’s world-class concierge, travel planning, and additional experiential support, your experience will be nothing short of magnificent. 

Ethical Sustainability a Priority

Sustainability is a core philosophy encompassed both in the restoration of the villa as well as its ongoing operations. During the restoration, the team made every effort to connect with previous owners; gather the disparate historical pieces of significance, information, and infrastructure of the original phases of the villa; and restore, recombine, and revitalize every detail of its original designs. During this process, the restoration team consistently made use of as many local artisans, craftsmen, and experts as possible. 

The home was also updated to take advantage of current technologies, using geothermal energy and drawing water from Lake Como at a depth of 15 meters to both heat and cool the home to minimize environmental impact. Food is sourced from zero-kilometer suppliers, ensuring truly local gastronomic and sustainable culinary delights.

A Personal Perspective

Villa Cagni is more than a home; it is a masterpiece of history, design, and hospitality. A sanctuary for those who appreciate the finest things in life, it stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Lake Como. Discover the unparalleled experience of staying at this iconic estate by connecting with an LVH client relations team today.

With LVH, every moment of your getaway is redefined as an experience of ultimate luxury. Your stay transcends the ordinary, as you are welcomed into a meticulously curated home that exudes elegance and exclusivity. Beyond the exquisite surroundings, LVH crafts an entirely bespoke journey tailored to your desires, ensuring that every detail reflects your passions and interests. We understand your time is a cherished commodity. Entrust us to transform your time away into immeasurable moments. 

LVH would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Pascal and his daughter Ines for taking the time to sit with us to explore the amazing history of Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy in this very personal interview, exploring the passion and vision that sets this home apart from many others on Lake Como.