Inspired by the elegance of the golden age of travel, we design one-of-a-kind stays across Italy and the Alps. Creating journeys for the discerning explorer, La Settima Duchessa is headquartered in Como - which means we know the secrets of the land and its people like the palms of our hands.
Our edit of villas combine impeccable taste, quiet discretion and storied provenance into a magical alchemy. We match each individual enquiry with the perfect place to stay, sourcing exclusive addresses from our little black book of properties that align with each guest’s unique tastes and preferences. You won’t find every villa listed here, because absolute privacy lies at the heart of what we do. We ensure that every journey connects with and empowers the local community, while striving to tread as lightly and sustainably across our planet as possible.
Beyond offering a place to rest and dream in, we are also your personal concierge. A detailed itinerary is penned and the most personalised team is assembled to ensure that your trip is seamless along every step of the way.
Unrivalled experiences are arranged, from helicopter rides that will whisk you to dinner to an exclusive visit to local artisans’ ateliers - we unlock hidden doors that no-one else has the keys to. La Settima Duchessa is more than just a travel advisor. It stands for the belief that to travel well is to travel differently, all while holding a sharp eye for detail and impeccable service.
La Settima Duchessa was founded by Tessa Bontempo and Chiara Lucci, whom serendipity brought to meet on the shores of Lake Como. From their common love for extraordinary travel, La Settima Duchessa emerged. Born in Australia, Tessa holds wanderlust - and Italy - in her blood. Her father’s lineage hails from the sun-kissed island of Sicily, while her maternal ancestor, Augustus J.C. Hare, was an avid 19th century travelogue writer. Chiara, too, is an explorer at heart, having travelled the world and once called Shanghai, Prague and Milan home as she worked for media and fashion houses. Devoted to pared-down, unassuming sprezzatura, Tessa and Chiara adore uncovering the hidden gems of Italy and beyond.
